Parks / Pipestone National Monument
Pipestone National Monument
National Monument · MN
For over 3,000 years, Indigenous people have quarried the red stone at this site to make pipes used in prayer and ceremony - a tradition that continues to this day and makes this site sacred to many people.
Official NPS page →Current Alerts (3)
Prescribed Burn on Monday, May 11
The prescribed burn for May 11 has concluded and the Circle Trail is now open to visitors.
Possible Bridge Closure
The Circle Trail bridge under Winnewissa Falls may be closed temporarily due to flooding caused by spring rain. Please pay attention to signage posted in the Visitor Center and at the bridge. The rest of the park and Circle Trail remain open.
Holiday Hours
On Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day the visitor center will be closed (trails will remain open with access to restrooms on the north side of the building).
Entrance Fees
This park is fee-free.
Upcoming Events
Quarry Talk
Aug 31, 2026 · Meet your ranger at the entrance desk a few minutes before the program begins.
Things to Do
Cultural Demonstrations
From April through October, visitors can learn from cultural demonstrators.
Exhibits & Film
Exhibits and a 22-minute film provide visitors with an understanding of the cultural and spiritual significance of the site.
Hike the Circle Trail
The Circle Trail is a 3/4-mile long paved path. It cuts through a Tallgrass Prairie, along a creek with the endangered Topeka Shiner, in front of a waterfall, and past ancient quarries still used by Native Americans today.
Indoor Interpretive Experiences
A wide range of indoor interpretive opportunities and hands-on activities are available from spring through fall.
Outdoor Programs
Visitors are offered a chance to hear stories about Pipestone's history, learn more about its cultural and natural resources, attend night sky viewings, engage in interactive archeology programs, and more.
Picnic at the Three Maidens
The Monument has complimentary picnic tables and restrooms near the Three Maidens. The sheltered picnic area and lodge are owned by the city of Pipestone (contact information is provided).
Winter Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing around the Circle Trail is available after January 1st as long as the conditions allow for it.
Visitor Centers
- Visitor Center
Source: National Park Service.