PIPESTONE -- Park staff from both Pipestone National Monument and Blue Mounds State Park will guide visitors around the historic Circle Trail, Winnewissa Falls, quartzite cliffs and the pipestone quarries near the town of Pipestone on Sunday.
For countless generations, American Indians have quarried the red pipestone found at this site. These grounds are sacred to many people because the pipestone quarried here is carved into pipes used for prayer. The traditions of quarrying and pipemaking continue at the site.
To participate in the First Day Hike, meet at the parking lot in front of the Pipestone National Monument visitor center at 10 a.m. Sunday. No reservations are required. Wear shoes and clothing appropriate for walking on a winter morning. Be prepared for slippery and uneven walking conditions. Bring drinking water. The hike will last approximately one hour. Bathrooms are available in the visitor center.
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There is no fee to participate. For more information on Pipestone National Monument, visit www.nps.gov/pipe/index.htm .