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.
Sioux Quartzite Cliffs
The outcroppings along the trail are a surprise to many visitors expecting a flat prairie
Tallgrass Prairie
The tallgrass prairie is an explosion of color spring through fall
Snowshoeing the Circle Trail
Snowshoeing is available for free after January 1st
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
Breaking Through
Quarriers must break through over 6 feet of quartzite to reach the pipestone layer
Learning to Carve Pipestone
Travis Erickson teaches new carver, Jessica Arkeketa, how to make a pipe
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
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
