Pipestone National Monument

Sioux Quartzite Cliffs

The outcroppings along the trail are a surprise to many visitors expecting a flat prairie

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Monument's Exhibit Quarry, one of many scenic sites visitors can see from the Monument Circle Trail.

Ohanapecosh Campground - Site E005

For countless generations, American Indians have quarried the red pipestone found at this site. These grounds are sacred to many people because the pipestone quarried here is carved into pipes used for prayer. Many believe that the pipe's smoke carries one's prayer to the Great Spirit. The traditions of quarrying and pipemaking continue here today.

Pulling Pipestone

It can take months or even years to reach the pipestone layer in a quarry pit.

Jr. Ranger Camp Programs

Kids have opportunities throughout the summer for hands-on activities

Learning to Carve Pipestone

Travis Erickson teaches new carver, Jessica Arkeketa, how to make a pipe

Breaking Through

Quarriers must break through over 6 feet of quartzite to reach the pipestone layer

Winnewissa Falls in Winter

Winnewissa Falls is a favorite spot for visitors all year long

Teaching the Next Generation

Quarrier and carver Francis Eastman teaches Indigenous youth how to quarry

Snowshoeing the Circle Trail

Snowshoeing is available for free after January 1st

Tallgrass Prairie

The tallgrass prairie is an explosion of color spring through fall

Aaron Prim Breaking Through Quartzite

Quarrier Aaron Prim working his way through 6 feet of quartzite to reach pipestone

Sunrise over Pipestone Creek

The 3/4-mile Circle Trail is open 7 days a week all year for visitors to enjoy

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Lake Hiawatha, one of many scenic sites visitors can see from the Monument Circle Trail.

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View of Prairie Grasses and summer wildflowers, one of many scenic sites visitors can see from the Monument Circle Trail.

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Winnewissa Falls, one of many scenic sites visitors can see from the Monument Circle Trail.

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Front entrance of the visitor center as seen from the parking lot.

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Nicollet Marker, one of many historic sites visitors can see from the Monument Circle Trail

Campers are provided with a picnic table, food storage box, and a fire pit.

Ohanapecosh Campground - Site E005

Ohanapecosh Campground - Site E005 Tent Space

Ohanapecosh Campground - Site E005 Parking Area

A short trail behind the campsite leads to the Ohanapecosh Campground Amphitheater.

RecAreaDirections

Plane: Commercial service - located at Sioux Falls, SD -Joe Foss Field airport. 50 miles from Pipestone National Monument. Rental cars are available at the airport.

Non-Commercial service - located at Pipestone MN airport. Courtesy car or transit service available to Pipestone National Monument from the airport.

Car: Pipestone National Monument is easily accessible from local highways. When you reach the city of Pipestone, road signs will lead you to Pipestone National Monument.

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Permits info

Facilities

Visitor Center Visitor Center

Open Monday though Sunday, from 8:30 - 4:30 central time. Admission is free and includes exhibits, a film, and park store. The park's 22-minute film is also available to watch on the website's homepage. The 3/4-mile paved trail is always open and free to walk.

Recreation Areas and Campground Database