Most people consider northern Minnesota the most beautiful part of the state. It’s true that there’s a whole lot of beauty to be found there, from the North Shore to the Boundary Waters. But it’s time to recognize the unique beauty of another corner of Minnesota. Southwestern Minnesota may not have vast forests or rocky river bluffs, but it does offer scenery that you just can’t find anywhere else in the state. To take it all in, the tiny town of Pipestone is the perfect place to stop.
Pipestone is small but thriving, with a population of just over 4,000 people. It’s home to a charming downtown full of local shops.
Pipestone Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
In particular, the Calumet Inn is a striking showstopper that anchors the historic downtown. If you’re up for an overnight stay - or just a good meal - this is a great option.
Pipestone Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
This region of the state is home to miles and miles of prairie grassland. On a summer day, the waving grass is simply beautiful.
Brian Jeffery Beggerly/Flickr
But Pipestone is known for Pipestone National Monument. The monument honors and preserves the site where American Indians once quarried stone to make ceremonial pipes.
Josh/Flickr
The stone itself is very beautiful. Several hiking trails loop around the red quartzite cliffs.
Brian Jeffery Beggerly/Flickr
Aside from the quarries and cliffs, the Three Maidens are another formation at Pipestone. These massive rocks were left behind when glaciers retreated thousands of years ago. Today, the Maidens are still considered by some to be a sacred site.
Joe Passe/Flickr
Perhaps the most surprising feature at Pipestone is Winnewissa Falls. The sight of the clear water rushing over the red rock is, simply put, breathtaking.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Of course, the town of Pipestone is home to other treasures, too. Many wind farms in the area turn the landscape into a truly unique sight. Miles of windmills rising over the prairie look like something from the distant future.
Pipestone Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Small farms dot the landscape as well…
Brian Jeffery Beggerly/Flickr
…and gently flowing rivers and creeks create quiet - though still pretty - scenes.
Pipestone Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
And at the end of the day, you can expect a glorious sunset to light up the sky around Pipestone.
Brian Jeffery Beggerly/Flickr
Have you ever been to this beautiful town? Let us know your experience. Looking for more small-town experiences in Minnesota? Check out the Tiny Town In Minnesota With the Most Mouthwatering Restaurant.
Pipestone Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Brian Jeffery Beggerly/Flickr
Josh/Flickr
Joe Passe/Flickr
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
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