Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Winnewissa Falls
Winnewissa Falls is a picturesque waterfall located within Pipestone National Monument in Minnesota. The falls are formed by Pipestone Creek as it cascades over Sioux Quartzite rock formations, creating a serene and scenic spot for visitors.
The Setting
Winnewissa Falls sits at 1,703 feet within Pipestone National Monument, in the hills of Minnesota.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Circle Trail is a short and easy loop trail that takes visitors through the scenic landscape of Pipestone National Monument. Along the way, you'll pass by historic quarries, prairie landscapes, and the beautiful Winnewissa Falls. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most visitors.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Winnewissa Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Winnewissa Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the frozen falls.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the fragile ecosystem and for your safety. Be cautious near the falls, as rocks can be slippery. Watch for ticks and other insects during warmer months.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Pipestone hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 42 feet through Winnewissa Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,701 feet.
The ground changes about 14 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 21 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,701 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 42 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Winnewissa Falls is located within Pipestone National Monument in southwestern Minnesota. The monument is accessible via Highway 75 or Highway 23, and the falls can be reached by following the Circle Trail within the park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Pipestone National Monument Visitor Center, which serves as the starting point for the trail to the falls.
Elevation
1,703 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.015241° N, -96.320643° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months. Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography.
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For this easy 0.6 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Getaway with a small town feel
The Trail Inn - Slayton, MN - HWY 59
OYO Hotel Pipestone MN, Canterbury Park
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Pipestone National Monument Visitor Center, which offers exhibits on the area's history and culture, and the historic quarries where Native Americans have traditionally harvested pipestone.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also see prairie plants and wildflowers along the trail.
Cities near Winnewissa Falls
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