Our state is brimming with great hiking trails. From scenic hikes in South Dakota to easy hikes in South Dakota, the options are virtually endless! In fact, there are so many amazing trails that, at some point, you’ve likely asked yourself, “What are the best hiking trails near me?” Well, we’ve got some great news for you; we scoured the state and found the best hikes in South Dakota. And we must say, we think you’ll be pleased.

1. Black Elk Peak aka Harney Peak, Black Elk Wilderness Area
Black Elk Peak, Mount Rushmore Unorganized Territory, SD 57751, USA
Logan Beckett/AllTrails
This 7.1-mile trail starts at Sylvan Lake and takes you to the highest peak in South Dakota. From the viewpoint at 7,242 feet, you'll see for miles.

For more info, check out our article, It’s Impossible Not To Love This Breathtaking Wild Flower Trail In South Dakota.
2. Devil's Bathtub, Spearfish Canyon
Devils Bathtub Trailhead, 1917 Spearfish Canyon Hwy, Lead, SD 57754, USA
Don G/Tripadvisor
This is the perfect trail to take on a hot summer day, since you'll get to wade in the creek and play in waterfalls along the way! The sheer canyon walls and little waterfalls leading up to the Devil's Bathtub make for some stunning scenery.

For more info, check out our article, The Unrivaled Canyon Hike In South Dakota That Everyone Should Take At Least Once.

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3. Notch Trail, Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA
Karens0322/Tripadvisor
Notch Trail is fun for the whole family. You'll start by walking through a valley, then you'll climb a log ladder to the plateau above. It's a moderately-challenging hike, but worth the effort.

For more info, check out our article, The Beautiful South Dakota’s Badlands Trail That Everyone Will Love.
4. Roughlock Falls, Spearfish Canyon
Spearfish Canyon, North Lawrence, SD 57783, USA
rusticpress/Tripadvisor
An easy hike that takes you to a gorgeous waterfall...what more could you ask for? The trailhead for Roughlock Falls is at Spearfish Canyon Lodge. It's a short 2-mile loop. It's rated as ADA-accessible, too.

For more info, check out our article, The Enchanting South Dakota Trail That’s Perfect For Everyone.
5. Sunday Gulch Trail, Custer State Park
Custer State Park Spur, Custer, SD 57730, USA
KarenS0322/Tripadvisor
The Sunday Gulch Trailhead at Sylvan Lake is where you start the Black Elk Peak trail, but this little 2.8-mile-long trail offers a lot more solitude. It's rated as difficult by the park service, mainly because of the many steep staircases you must traverse along the way.

For more info, check out our article, The Spectacular Trail In South Dakota Everyone Needs To Take As Soon As Possible .

So, what do you think? Are these the best hikes in South Dakota? Ever trekked along these paths? Know of any other can’t-miss scenic hikes in South Dakota? Whatever it is, tell us!

These might be the best hikes in South Dakota, but that doesn’t mean they’re the only option for outdoor fun. There are so many places to enjoy the great outdoors, including these under-appreciated state parks.

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Best Hikes In South Dakota

Daniella DiRienzo | March 01, 2022

What are the most scenic hikes in South Dakota?

There are tons of scenic hikes in South Dakota – and the Big Badlands Overlook trail is one of them! Short and sweet, the 0.2-mile out-and-back trail is rated as easy, making it suitable for novice and avid hikers alike. Though lacking in difficulty, the trail isn’t lacking in stunning sights. Beautiful views can be found along the entire trail. Of course, there’s no denying that the best sights can be found from atop the Big Badlands Overlook, which is located at the end of the trail. From the overlook, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the eastern portion of the Badlands wall.

Are there any easy hikes in South Dakota?

Not all of the state’s worthwhile hikes extend for miles and miles. There are a ton of easy hikes in South Dakota, which are just as rewarding as their more difficult counterparts. When it comes to easy hikes in South Dakota, one that you don’t want to overlook is the Presidential Trail. A must-do when visiting Mount Rushmore, the 0.6-mile trail offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with the famous mountain sculpture as well as the area wildlife.

What are the best kid-friendly hikes around South Dakota?

The Mount Rushmore State offers fun for everyone. For instance, there are numerous kid-friendly hikes around South Dakota, including the Window Trail in Badlands National Park. Perfect for younger hikers, the trail is just 0.3 miles. Plus, it’s a boardwalk, making it extremely easy to traverse. The best feature, though, is the overlook at the trail’s end. A premier vantage point, the overlook, or window, offers incredible views of layered badlands geology, showcasing the erosion that’s taken place over the centuries.

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