The Pipestone National Monument in southwestern Minnesota is hardly visited by tourists. When I visited the place on a weekend, I counted 5 visitors only. One probable reason why only few people care to visit is that, this is the only attraction along U.S. Route 75. And one does not want to drive long hours just to see a not-so-popular National Monument. That is too bad. Many have missed a hidden gem.
The place is peaceful. There you will find a quarry of red catlinite stone hidden under a layer of Quartzite. The catlinite, aka “pipestone”, has been used to make ceremonial pipes for traditional Plains Indian religious practices. Only Native American ancestry are allowed to quarry the pipestone. It was designated as a National Monument in 1937.
The path to the Pipestone National Monument is surrounded with ‘greens.’
A creek runs and winds through the greens.
This is the old-stone face (not me, but that rock)! Human likeness appears on the rocks that were created entirely by natural forces.
Then you won’t expect to see this, a picturesque waterfall nestles out on the prairie! Climb to the very top, sit on the rock, and view the falls up close and personal.
Follow the 3/4 mile long trail, get a glimpse of the area’s unique geologic features, and see the quarries used by Plains Indian tribes.
Like the old-stone face, there is also “The Oracle.” You can peep through a hole to see facial outlines on the rocks. Locals believe it served as a guardian of the valley.
After doing the trail, stop by the visitor center and check out the pipestone carvings made by Native American artisans.
If you are passing through the area, stop by the sacred place of Pipestone National Monument. I assure you that it will be an excellent, educational, and spiritual experience.
Where to find it.
Address: Pipestone, MN
Phone Number: (507) 825-5464
Hours.
Summer hours: 8 AM to 5 PM daily
Winter hours: 8 AM to 5 PM daily
Holidays: Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
The Loop: Open daily.
Entrance Fees.
$7.00 per person age 16 and up. Pass valid for 7 days.
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See also: My other travel adventures in the USA.
See also: List of National Monuments.
