The visitor center at Pipestone National Monument is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM from March to November. From December to February, it is open Tuesday through Saturday, same hours. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
There is no entrance fee at Pipestone National Monument. Admission, parking, and all visitor services are free.
From Sioux Falls, take I-90 east to US Highway 75, then north to Pipestone, where historic quarries and pristine prairies await.
Parking is available at the Visitor Center for cars, buses, and recreational vehicles (RVs). No overnight parking is allowed. No parking fees apply.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the heart of Minnesota, Pipestone National Monument stands as a sacred and visually stunning destination, weaving together the rich tapestry of American Indian culture, pristine natural beauty, and historical significance. This monument, established in 1937, is home to the historic pipestone quarries, where for over 3,000 years, Indigenous people have extracted the soft, red stone to craft ceremonial pipes.
The landscape is a symphony of tallgrass prairies, rolling hills, and the gentle cascade of Winnewissa Falls. A ¾-mile paved trail guides visitors along Pipestone Creek, past operational quarries and through a quartzite ridge, offering glimpses of colorful prayer ties adorning the trees. The air is filled with the songs of birds, and the prairies come alive with wildflowers in the spring and summer, transitioning into a golden hue in the autumn.
During the summer, visitors can witness a sun dance and watch Native American carvers at work in the visitor center. The center itself is a hub of cultural enrichment, featuring an orientation film, exhibits, and a gift shop where one can purchase pipestone carvings. The monument also offers a Junior Ranger Program and educational programs year-round, ensuring there is something for every visitor.
In the surrounding area, the town of Pipestone boasts a charm that complements the monument perfectly, with its quaint shops and historic architecture. For those seeking to immerse themselves further, nearby attractions include Good Earth State Park, which provides additional insights into the region’s sacred sites and trade routes.
Pipestone National Monument is a place where nature, culture, and history converge, making it an unforgettable destination for those seeking a profound and enriching travel experience. With its free admission and diverse range of activities, it invites travelers to delve into its sacred grounds and experience the beauty and significance that have drawn people here for centuries.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 78 000
- Established year
- 1937
Top 3 Facts about Pipestone National Monument
The catlinite, or pipestone, lies in veins 30 to 46 cm deep, a short distance below the surface, and is located between layers of hard rock, making it a unique geological formation crucial for ceremonial pipes in Plains Indian traditions.
In this pristine tallgrass prairie, over 500 plant species thrive, including the federally threatened Western prairie-fringed orchid. The landscape is home to diverse wildlife: thirteen-lined ground squirrels, great blue herons, snapping turtles, and beavers. Spring and fall bring a flurry of bird activity with over 100 species, while the waters host approximately 26 fish species. Controlled burns and careful management preserve this natural tapestry, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic immersion in native American ecosystems.
In this serene landscape, ancient Sioux Quartzite, one of the hardest rocks on Earth, forms dramatic cliff formations around Winnewissa Falls. The quartzite, with a Mohs hardness of 7.5, contrasts sharply with the soft, carvable pipestone layers, just 12 to 18 inches below the surface. Here, glacial gouging has etched chatter marks and striations into the rock, while the falls cascade over stone channels sculpted by millennia of fluvial activity.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Living History & Cultural Demons
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in spring for blooming tallgrass prairie. Allow an afternoon to explore the 3/4-mile Circle Trail, paved and easy, with stops at quarries and Winnewissa Falls. Park in the big-rig friendly lot, start at the visitor center, and plan for rest and meals off-site.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for varying weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a tent, sleeping bag, and headlamp for overnight stays. Don’t forget a multi-tool, matches, and a refillable water bottle. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing them. Never feed or touch animals, and properly dispose of trash to preserve their natural habitats. Stay on designated trails and respect the environment as you would your own backyard.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water areas, and check weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at the visitor center. Stay informed, stay safe.
Seasons
In spring, as temperatures rise to the 50s and 60s, enjoy crisp evenings and clear skies. Attend the Spring Star Party in May, gazing through telescopes with astronomers and learning astrophotography. Layer up, bring a flashlight, and savor complimentary star-themed snacks. Perfect for stargazers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Experience summer’s warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and occasional thunderstorms in a lush tallgrass prairie. Join the Read with a Ranger Summer Story Series, featuring traditional Native American tales, every Thursday at 3 pm. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers.
Experience the allure of autumn with crisp temperatures (40s-60s°F) and vibrant foliage. Join the Autumn Star Party in September, featuring stargazing, kids’ activities, and cultural presentations under the dark sky. Ideal for a serene and enriching fall escape.
Experience the serene winter landscape from November to March, with temperatures often below 37°F. Snowy, windy conditions create a tranquil backdrop for exploring the monument’s natural beauty, though cold weather may limit some activities. For the adventurous, it’s a unique and peaceful time to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Pipestone National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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You should stay in Pipestone, Minnesota, which is just south of the monument. Alternatively, you can also consider Sioux Falls, South Dakota, which is about 50 miles away and has an airport with commercial flights.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed inside buildings but can accompany you on trails like the Circle Trail. Always clean up after your dog.
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Yes, parking is free and includes space for buses, recreational vehicles like campers, motorhomes, and camper vans.
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The top attraction is the quarries where Indigenous people have been extracting red pipestone, also known as catlinite, for over 3,000 years to make pipes used in prayer and ceremony. This tradition continues to the present day and is a unique feature that allows visitors to see an historic activity performed in a manner that resembles historic practice. The Circle Trail, a 0.75-mile paved path, allows visitors to view these quarries and other significant sites.