Without looking too hard, it’s not difficult to find as many incredible hiking trails in Minnesota as you could ever want. They lead through peaceful forests, to rushing waterfalls, and alongside secluded lakes. But what if you’re looking for something a little different? There’s one hike in Minnesota that is a little different from the rest. It’s not as popular as Minnesota’s most famous trails, but there’s something incredibly fascinating at the end of the trail. What is it? Well, this hidden trail in Minnesota leads to a magnificent archaeological treasure. Read on to find out what it is.
Jeffers Petroglyphs is an archaeological site in southwestern Minnesota. You’ll find it in the tiny town of Comfrey, about 140 miles southwest of Minneapolis.
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This part of Minnesota is marked by vast prairie. The waving grasses against the endless sky are markedly different from the thick woods of northern Minnesota.
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In warmer months, the wildflowers that grow in the prairie offer even more color to the pretty landscape.
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But the main event is not the prairie, but what it hides. Down a short, easy trail, an outcropping of pink Sioux quartzite awaits.
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The rock seems out of place in this prairie landscape, but it has been there for millennia.
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The longer you look, the more apparent its archaeological significance. Dozens of petroglyphs are carved into the rock.
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These petroglyphs depict humans, buffalo, thunderbirds, constellations, and more. The oldest date back 7,000 years.
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They tell the story of the American Indians who lived in Minnesota long ago. Many Ioway, Cheyenne, and Dakota people still pray there.
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When you visit, you can take in the history of the place by reading interpretive signs. There are also guides who can show the best ways to see the petroglyphs.
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Spraying water is one method used to show off the carvings more easily.
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Shadow is another way.
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No matter how you see them, Jeffers Petroglyphs are a fascinating, must-see attraction in Minnesota.
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All it takes is a drive down to Comfrey and a short walk through the gorgeous prairie.
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Have you been to Jeffers Petroglyphs? What did you think about this fascinating archaeological treasure? Let us know in the comments below.
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