PipeStone National Monument

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This adventure like the last few we tried to get places that we hadn't gone to before. On this day we were hoping for some sun to go along with the fun that we had planned out. We did find ourselves on another fun exploration of Minnesota's nature and beauty.

We headed south this time to the southern regions of Minnesota. We had heard about the waterfall in Pipestone and decided that would be a nice place to explore.

Our first stop was at Granite Falls. I had read somewhere that there was a waterfall in that area. When we got there what we found was that the falls had now become a dam; supplying the area with their electrical power. We did find some nice artifacts in Sorlien Park. We also found in town, a church with a bell in the steeple.

Next we stopped at Camden State Park. Since it was off season we didn't know what we would find but it was interesting. The ranger at the park was very helpful. She removed our Minnesota DNR State Park sticker and placed it on the proper side. That saved us from having to buy another one. The park area was nice providing an a special area for campers with horses. Not all parks allow this. We went down to the river looking for some fall color; if there was any left to be had being so late in the season. What caught our attention was the sign that said "Dangerous Crossing" . We noticed that the hiking path crossed the railroad tracks at that point. There is a bend in the river at that point and a train engineer would not be able to see hikers or horseback riders in enough time to stop the train.

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The next place to visit was Pipestone National Monument. When we arrived to the park we weren't sure exactly what we would find but it was very interesting. Pipestone National Monument has a large visitors center with an overlook on the top floor. Of course we went up there to take advantage of the views. By the way some of the views even at this time of year were breath taking.

Inside the center part of the gift shop is in the back of the center. We found all hand made Indian peace pipes and bead wear. The only word that comes to mind when thinking of these items is simply beautiful. After this we headed out on the trail. The pipe stone itself was gorgeous. Native Indians are the only persons that are given quarry rights to mine the pipe stone.

Above is an example of the pipestone quarries that the Indian's of that area mine

When you first enter into the trail area you see nothing but prairie area. The trail has been designed to call your attention to points of interest so nothing is missed on this scenic route. One of the first stops that we made was at what we thought was going to be the waterfall. We saw the nice cascading falls there surrounded by the natural beauty of the prairie land. The cascading falls were relaxing to watch and listen to. With some mild disappointment we did go forward to see the other sites of this preserve.

We saw the area where the Sundance Ceremony is performed. This is a religious ceremony using tobacco and colored cloths ties. Found on the tree is a color of each tie that is placed on this cottonwood tree is a prayer. There are four colors that are used representing the four cardinal directions with Black=West, White=North, Red=East, and Yellow=South.

Next we came across the many rock formations that are so popular to the Pipestone National Monument. We came across Two Indian Faces and Leaping Rock. On top of the rock formations you can see where Joseph Nicollet made a tablet in the rock inscribing the initials of members that were on this first expedition to the quarry led by the US Government.

It was at this point in our journey the sun that we chased to see finally came out. Perfect timing as this was when we found the Winnewissa waterfall. With sky's turning blue and the color of the rock this sure made for a beautiful site. The power and beauty that surrounded this waterfall is truly a site to see.

Back on the trail the next site to behold is the well known site of the Oracle. You look through a peeking hole in the sign and try to find the statue of the Oracle. Once you recognize the formation it is amazing to see that.

We drove back through the town of Pipestone. The town does have a lot of history there and we did find several things to let you take a look at. First is the Pipestone Museum; it was closed when we were there but looked interesting for the next visit.

The museum is found on the edge of Pipestone just before you get to the turn for the monument. Next we ventured into the middle of town and saw the well kept city park couldn't help but stop there.

With that adventure over we forged ahead. The next place of interest was Walnut Grove, Minnesota; home to Laura Ingalls Wilder.

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To get to the Alexander Ramsey Falls you have to drive a bit downhill to the parking area. As you start to walk the path to the waterfall you cross a suspension bridge. I don't care much for suspension bridges as I am afraid of height if you can believe that. As you round the corner on the trail the view of the carved out gorge is one of beauty showing the winding, curving, and ever flowing river. The park has provided a nice overlook platform to view Ramsey Falls. What you will see is a large free flowing falls with a magnificent drop. With the power behind that falls there is no way that you would not enjoy the site before you.

This concludes our visit to Pipestone and the surrounding parks. See you next week.

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