Categories: Fun & Games; Sports & Recreation; Outdoor Adventures; History & Heritage; Local Highlights
Overview. Winnewissa Falls (the name means "jealous maiden") is the focal point of this site, long precious to Native Americans because of the red stone that is quarried for sacred pipes and other carvings. The falls are surrounded by natural prairie and the remains of ancient petroglyphs, said to have been the inspiration for Longfellow's poem "The Song of Hiawatha." Pipestone's (catlinite) relatively soft texture makes it suitable for carving; Native Americans have been using it for 400 years and today hold the exclusive rights to the site. In the traditional way, the stone is still removed by hand. What to see and do. A hiking trail will lead you three-quarters of a mile through open prairie, around the quarry and past the falls; take a closer look at what remains of rock carvings that were used in ancient rites. You can also explore Fort Pipestone, which is located near the monument's entrance, or go into the town of Pipestone, located one mile away, and take a walking tour of the historic district. Pipe-making and other traditional stone crafts are demonstrated by native artisans at the Upper Midwest Indian Cultural Center from April to October. During the last two weekends in July and the first weekend in August, a 200-member cast presents the "Song of Hiawatha" pageant in a natural amphitheater situated near the quarry lake. The monument also offers a picnic area and interpretive exhibits and films. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, visitor and cultural center hours are 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Thursday and until 8 PM Friday through Sunday. Throughout the rest of the year, both facilities are open daily until 5 PM. Leashed pets are permitted and handicapped-accessible facilities are available. The monument is north of the city of Pipestone in southwest Minnesota. Take US 75 and MN 23 and 30.
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