With as many waterfalls as Minnesota has, it should come as no surprise that there are just as many hikes to go along with them. Some, like the Kawishiwi Falls hike, cut through deep woods to bring adventurers to hidden waterfalls. Other falls, like Gooseberry, are just a short walk through a state park to see one o the most spectacular sights in the state. And still, others are accessible by climbing a set of stairs. That’s the case for the Circle Trail at Pipestone National Park. Take a look:

Pipestone National Monument is located in southwestern Minnesota, in the small town of Pipestone. You’ll find the monument at 36 Reservation Avenue.

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The monument is nestled among Minnesota’s prairie. But it’s not all tall grass and wildflowers.

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This monument is home to talk quartzite cliffs that rise high above the prairie. It is a sacred spot for many Native Americans, whose ancestors quarried stone from the area to use for pipes.

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The Circle Trail is a 3/4-mile path between the cliffs. It will take visitors on a trip to see some of the famous formations throughout the park.

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Some, like the Oracle, require climbing to a higher vantage point to see the formation. These stone steps are carved into the stone.

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As the trail continues, you’ll pass through stands of beautiful trees and lush foliage. You’ll hear the sound of rushing water in the distance.

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That sound is the water of Pipestone Creek. This beautiful stream is riddled with stones, giving it a picturesque look that you won’t be able to keep your eyes off of.

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Soon, you will reach the main event along the Circle Trail: the stunning Winnewissa Falls. A bridge crossing the creek offers a great view of the falls from below.

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But another stone staircase will bring you to an equally beautiful sight. It’s a short section of this hike, but it will be your favorite part.

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Like the other stairs, these were carved into the rock…

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…all for the purpose of giving hikers a wonderful view of the falls from above!

Only In Your State

Winnewissa Falls is a truly beautiful spot in an often overlooked region of Minnesota. This short hike, with its stone staircases, is the perfect way to see it! Have you ever been there?

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Tom R/TripAdvisor

Brian Jeffery Beggerly/Flickr

Tony Webster/Flickr

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Michael Z/TripAdvisor

Only In Your State

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