NPS Photo

The petroglyphs in a new display located in the cultural center

Visitor Center

The visitor center features an 8-minute orientation program which provides a history of the pipestone quarries. Interpretive exhibits about the cultural and natural resources of the site can be found throughout the building, in addition to the main museum objects on display. A petroglyph display was recently constructed in the Upper Midwest Indian Cultural Center, located inside the visitor center.

NPS Photo

A cultural demonstrator is carving a pipe bowl

Cultural Demonstrations

The cultural center features demonstrations of pipe making by American Indian craft workers using stone from the quarries. The demonstrations are available from April to mid-October.

NPS Photo

Winnewissa falls is located along the Circle Trail

Nature Walk

The ¾ mile self-guiding Circle Trail begins at the visitor center and loops through the quarries, passing sites of historic and scenic interest. A wide variety of wildlife and remnant tallgrass prairie ecosystems can be seen. A trail booklet is available at the visitor center.