Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is located along I-90 in remote South Dakota near Philip. The visitor center is right on I-90 and there are two remote locations that have tours (when allowed). The two remote locations are the launch control facility and a missile silo. We only went to the visitor center as the other locations were closed due to COVID-19. The visitor center had great information about the Cold War and all of the drama related to missiles. It is worth a stop along the long, isolated drive across South Dakota.

Visitor Center

Dignity Sculpture - Chamberlain, SD

We discovered the Dignity of Earth and Sky statue/sculpture by chance by stopping at the rest area near Chamberlain, South Dakota. It is so wonderful I just had to make a post for it. 

So, yes, it is at a rest area overlooking the Missouri River so the view is great also. And, that's not all. There is a nice exhibit (for a rest area) about the Corp of Discovery expedition (you know, Lewis & Clark) inspired by their stop in the area. So, if you are cruising across I-90 in South Dakota be sure to put this rest area on your agenda.

View - Missouri River

Pipestone National Monument

 On our return trip we went a little out of our way to visit Pipestone National Monument in very southwestern Minnesota. This National Park Service location protects ancient stone quarries that have been used for centuries. The short story is that Indigenous people from across the country have been visiting and quarrying a unique stone from these quarries to make special smoking pipes that are an important part of their traditions and beliefs. This national monument protects these quarries and issues permits to tribal nations so that they may keep quarrying traditions alive.

These pictures do not show active sites as they are protected from visitors. There is a nice 3/4 mile paved path that shows the natural landscape and some history.

Exhibit hole to show rock layers

Old quarry with rubble falling back in

Waterfall on trail

1838 chiseling by explorers