Pipestone National Monument

Pipestone National Monument is situated in Sweet Township, Pipestone County, which is in the southwestern part of Minnesota, just north of the city of Pipestone. To access the park, just drive from US 75, MN 23, or MN 30 and closely follow the sigs in order to get to the main entrance. These roads will lead you to the 282 acres of protected land that has been a special place to many people over the centuries. 

This is why Pipestone National Monument has been protected by the government and more precisely by the National Park Service since August 25, 1937. When visitors get to the Pipestone National Monument, they will be impressed by a lot of exciting features. For example, the protected land is home to the American Indians who have been harvesting materials used for pipe making from the quarries in the area for centuries. 

Some of the quarries are still used today for the same purpose. One famous painter, George Catlin is said to have been one of the first people to describe these quarries in print even though other white settlers visited the caves before him. Pipestone National Monument is a great educational opportunity. 

Additionally, the park's protected land includes a cultural center called the Upper Midwest Indian Cultural Center which provides a place for craftsmen to exhibit their wares and for other Native people to demonstrate their traditional crafts. Pipestone National Monument has plenty of history.

Besides these events, visitors to the Pipestone National Monument can also get to enjoy other activities including hiking, and ranger-led programs. Amenities in the park to facilitate these activities include restrooms, picnic area, self-guided tour/trail, museum/cultural center, and a visitor center. 

Dogs are allowed into the Pipestone National Monument although there are some restrictions that dog owners should be aware of. For example, dogs should not go into any park buildings including the visitor centers. In areas of the park that dogs can visit, they should always be leashed.