The Visitor Center At Pipestone National Monument

The Pipestone National Monument visitor center serves as a hub of information and resources for visitors.

It is located near the entrance and provides information on the park’s features, history, and activities.

Speak with park rangers and volunteers at the information desk to get details on hiking trails and other activities available to visitors within the park.

You can obtain maps, guidebooks, and other materials to help plan your visit.

 

The visitor center features a small gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to the park.

Restrooms, trashcans, and a water bottle filling station are all available here.

Additionally, there is a theater where you can watch the short film Pipestone: An Unbroken Legacy, a 22-minute film about the importance of the pipestone quarries from Native American quarriers and pipemakers.

 

The Visitor Center is open daily March through November 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. It is only open Tuesday through Saturday, December, January, and February.

There are multiple exhibits to explore inside the center and cultural demonstrations are also included.

When we visited two local artists were working on carving stones. We had the opportunity to talk to them and ask questions and found the whole experience quite rewarding.

 

The Circle Trail is a 3/4-mile-long paved path that begins at the visitor center.

It cuts through a Tallgrass Prairie, travels along a creek, passes in front Winnewissa Falls, and takes hikers past quarries still used by Native Americans today.