Cool Off This Summer With A Visit To These 6 South Dakota Waterfalls

Quite possibly the best-known waterfall in the Mount Rushmore State is the iconic Falls Park, which just so happens also to be the state's tallest! Whether or not you decide to take the .4-mile trail, you will be treated to glorious views of the natural wonder, which drops an average of 7,400 gallons of water over 100 feet each second.

If you are looking for a waterfall with a short and sweet hike, there is no better place to be than Spearfish's aptly-named Spearfish Falls. Featuring a stunning .75-mile trail, Spearfish Falls - like Bridal Veil Falls - is surrounded by a picture-perfect Black Hills landscape that is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. 

ALSO located near Spearfish (are you noticing a pattern here?), Roughlock Falls is billed as one of the most visited areas in South Dakota and, for a good reason, as a can't-miss 2-mile out-and-back trail accompanies the waterfall. Trust us; you don't want to miss this one!

Make a huge splash this summer by cooling off at Cascade Falls, AKA the "Old Swimming Hole"! Located near Hot Springs, Cascade Falls boasts comfortable, 67-degree spring-fed water, plus a dainty waterfall that is perfect for sliding down or sitting on. 

Last but certainly not least is arguably South Dakota's most legendary waterfall, Devil's Gulch. As the story goes, Jesse James once robbed a bank and jumped from atop the pictured bridge into the cold water below, which helped him escape local law enforcement. (Psst... Be careful when you visit, as the Devil's Gulch is also alleged to be haunted by 2 lovers who allegedly died at the canyon and can still be seen and heard.)