Hike to Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

One of the best hikes in southwestern Minnesota is just under a mile long, it covers vast prairie views, towering quartzite cliffs, waterfalls, river, Native American culture and history.

Distance: 3/4 mile
Level: Easy
Dog Friendly: Yes
Time to go: Anytime of year, the trail becomes a snowshoe trail after Jan. 1st (if there is snow)
Fees: Free

Location: Just north of Pipestone, MN
Address: 36 Reservation Ave, Pipestone, MN 56164

Trail Head

The trail begins on the east side of the visitors center. Immediately, there is an old quarry. Hikers can enter the small quarry, it’s a neat feature to kick off the hike. 

Prairie

The trail begins with views of prairie. The wildflowers and prairie grasses attract all kinds of wildlife. Watch for critters along the way, butterflies in particular during the summer months.

Quartzite Cliffs

The cliffs jut out of the prairie dramatically carving the way to the waterfall, the cliffs seem out of place at first and an amazing sight to see in the midst of the fields. It’s really neat how the trail winds along the edge.

The Oracle & Stone Face

A short, yet steep set of steps lead to an overlook set atop the cliffs to the right of the trail. Immediately to the left at the top of the steps is a stone the resembles a face. It is the Oracle. There is no trail along the top of the cliffs, the purpose of the climb is simply to see this sacred spot.

A bit farther down the path, there is another face in the rocks. “Old Stone Face” can be seen from the trail when turning to look back after the falls.

Winnewissa Falls

A wonderous waterfall! Pipestone Creek spills over the rocky edge and fills the pool below. This is one of the most beautiful locations in the park. Snap a photo or two, then put the camera/phone away and enjoy the majestic beauty of the falls. There is a bridge leading over the pool below the falls and a small path leading up to an overlook. Watch your step if you choose to go up, it’s steep.

Lake Hiawatha

The second section of falls is near Lake Hiawatha. It is a small falls, dropping just a few feet. The path leads right next to the falls for a great view. Keep an eye out for wildlife around the falls and lake, we spotted a snapping turtle making it’s way along the creek.

Warning: Do not swim in Lake Hiawatha, it is contaminated and is not safe to swim or drink. This includes for dogs, too. Don’t let your dogs enter the water or drink from the lake.

Traditions

Take time to notice the traditions of the native culture. Along the path, there are bits of cloth and herbs in small pouches tied to trees. It gives and ancient, yet earie feel to the trail.

Visitor Center

Hours: Daily 8:30am-4:30pm (Tues-Sat from November-March)

The trail ends back at the visitor center. Inside is bursting with Native American culture, artifacts, pictographs, history and a gift shop. While we were visiting on a July weekend, there were demonstrations going on inside the visitors center. They were quite neat, a women was making crafts and answering questions about the methods and purpose of the various items she was creating.

Note: Dogs are not allowed inside the visitor center.

Sweet Treats

Stop in at the Dari King (yes, you read that correctly). The Dari King offers many options for a quick treat after a day at Pipestone National Monument.

Nearby Adventures

For more hiking, camping and outdoor adventures in the southwestern Minnesota area check out Blue Mounds State Park and Split Rock Creek State Park.