The Underrated Natural Wonder Every Minnesotan Should See At Least Once

There are so many beautiful places to see in the North Star State, from lakes and beaches to forests and waterfalls. While we have many famous natural wonders – Gooseberry Falls and the Boundary Waters, to name a few – there are plenty of little-known spots that are well worth visiting. Next time you’re in southwestern Minnesota, visit one of the state’s most underrated natural wonders. You won’t regret it!

Minnesota’s most underrated natural wonder is located at 36 Reservation Ave. in Pipestone, Minnesota. It’s on the grounds of Pipestone National Monument.

lovestotravel101/TripAdvisor

Pipestone National Monument is a place where beauty meets history. Native American tribes have quarried stone here for centuries. The stone is used to make ceremonial pipes, hence the name pipestone.

Wayne Hsieh/Flickr

The park also showcases one of the last tallgrass prairies in the United States.

Joe Passe/Flickr

A beautiful walk on the Circle Trail, which is about ¾ of a mile, starts and ends at the visitor’s center, will lead you to several points of interest at Pipestone National Monument.

Brian Jeffery Beggerly/Flickr

This trail leads visitors to many points of interest. Several interesting rock formations line the trail.

Al/Flickr

Grab a brochure in the visitor’s center for information about each formation’s significance.

Amy Meredith/Flickr

But the main event along the circle trail is Winnewissa Falls. You’ll hear its thundering roar before you see it.

Al/Flickr

And when you see it, the falls is nothing short of remarkable.

Amy Meredith/Flickr

Pipestone Creek flows over a gorgeous quartzite bluff, falling 18 feet to the creek below. A bridge right at the bottom of the falls provides an excellent view.

J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

Climb up the chiseled stone steps near the falls…

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…you’ll find great views of the area! It’s absolutely beautiful from both angles, so be sure to climb up if you’re able.

Amy Meredith/Flickr

The beautiful Winnewissa Falls - and its surrounding landscape - may be underrated, but they sure are gorgeous. These southwestern Minnesota gems are well worth the drive.

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Have you ever visited Pipestone National Monument and Winnewissa Falls? Let us know below!

lovestotravel101/TripAdvisor

Wayne Hsieh/Flickr

Joe Passe/Flickr

Brian Jeffery Beggerly/Flickr

Al/Flickr

Amy Meredith/Flickr

J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

bhs128/Flickr

katie wheeler/Flickr

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