The Story Behind These Mysterious Stones In Minnesota Is Fascinatig

Here in Minnesota, we are lucky to have many beautiful natural wonders. From waterfalls to sparkling lakes to thick forests blanketed in snow, there’s something for just about everyone. And add one more to the list: our rock formations. We have delicate arches, tall bluffs, and ruggedly beautiful cliffs. And to add one more to the list, we also have a series of mysterious stones that, on first look, are truly baffling. Take a look:

Pipestone National Monument is a beautiful and historic place in southwestern Minnesota. Its address is 36 Reservation Ave., Pipestone, MN 56164.

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The monument is home to gorgeous pink quartzite cliffs that have been the site of Native American pipestone quarrying for centuries.

Brian Jeffery Beggerly/Flickr

Several interesting rock formations have held meaning for visitors to the quarries for generations.

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Many other rock formations make this a beautiful place to visit as well. For example, Pipestone Creek is riddled with large and small boulders.

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The creek becomes Winnewissa Falls when it runs over another tall quartzite cliff. This lovely little waterfall is beautiful both above and below.

J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

While all of Pipestone’s rock formations are fascinating, perhaps the most strange are the Three Maidens overlooking Lake Hiawatha.

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The boulders were regarded as symbols of the spirits that protected the pipestone quarries. Many left offerings to the spirits at the Three Maidens, and some still do today.

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But why do they hold such a symbolic meaning - and why are they notable today? In short, it’s because these massive stones do not match any of the other rocks found at Pipestone National Monument.

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So how did they get there? The stones were carried to the area by glaciers many thousands of years ago. Though they’re out of place, they still hold spiritual significance to many people.

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Have you ever visited Pipestone National Monument? What did you think of the Three Maidens? Share your answers i the comments below!