Trip Ideas

Guided hikes run from early spring to late fall

NPS

Whether you're stretching your legs on a long drive or coming to spend quality time at the park, here are a few options for the best ways to maximize your experience:

"We only have about 30 minutes"

• Watch the 22-minute park film
• Swing through the exhibits next to the theater
• Grab some site bulletins that have more information

"We have about an hour"

• Grab a free Jr. Ranger activity book for the kids
• Watch the 22-minute film
• Explore the exhibits next to the theater
• Watch and engage with the culture demonstrators carving pipestone (April through October)
• See the petroglyphs
• Check out the park store
• Get the kids sworn in as Jr. Rangers with new badges before you go!

"We have 90 minutes - 2 hours"

• You'll have time to do everything listed above for 1-hour, plus a hike around the 3/4-mile Circle Trail. This is a paved, relatively flat trail with views of quartzite cliffs, tallgrass prairie, and a waterfall. While the trail is not American Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant, it may be wheelchair accessible with some assistance (see Accessibility).

"We're here for as long as it takes, time is not an issue"

• You'll have time to do everything listed for 1-hour, but instead of exploring the Circle Trail on your own, may have the option for a guided tour if you visit between April and October.
• During the winter season there won't be cultural demonstrators and guided tours are rare due to limited staff, but snowshoes are availabe to check out for free. Seeing the frozen waterfall and snow-covered, pink quartzite cliffs is something most visitors don't experience, but is always worth it.