Here in South Dakota, we’re downright spoiled when it comes to epic natural wonders. From mountains, woods, and hills aboveground, to the exciting caves and caverns below ground, there’s no shortage of scenery here in the Mount Rushmore State. Today’s feature adventure is a custom road trip that will take you to some of the best caves and waterfalls in South Dakota. Whether you’re looking up “waterfalls near me” in South Dakota, or you happen to love sightseeing, you’ll be glad this one-of-a-kind itinerary came to mind. Oh, and one last thing, don’t forget your camera!
We have the interactive Google map for you below. It can be used to better assist you during the road trip.
If you love waterfalls so much that you frequently research "waterfalls near me," then you have come to the right place, as our first three stops on this epic road trip will be clear and cascading waters, beginning with Roughlock Falls. No matter the time of year, Roughlock Falls, which is created by the nearby Little Spearfish Creek, is a sight to see thanks to its towering height and surrounding landscape. When it comes to beautiful waterfall hikes in South Dakota, Roughlock Falls is an excellent choice.
Located a short distance from Roughlock Falls, Spearfish Falls is another Black Hills gem that is a must-see for every South Dakotan. Standing at 47 feet tall, Spearfish Falls is accessible via a short and sweet 3/4-mile hike that starts and ends at the tasty and down-home Latchstring Restaurant. Yum! This low-key, relatively easy South Dakota hike is one that's bound to impress all ages.
Cascading more than 60 feet, Bridal Veil Falls is said to be the most beautiful waterfall in the Mount Rushmore State, which we cannot help but agree with thanks to its majestic height and bridal veil-like appearance. Any guesses as to how this iconic waterfall got its name? Without a doubt, Bridal Veil Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in South Dakota.
4. Wonderland Cave - Nemo
Wonderland Cave, 12634 Alpine Rd, Nemo, SD 57759, USA
If you think that the Wonderland Cave has an overblown name, you obviously haven't seen this fantastic landmark for yourself. Billed as being the "Greatest show under the Earth," the Wonderland Cave was once an inland sea (some 60 million years ago) and now houses the most extensive variety of formations found in the Midwest. Learn more about this seriously underrated natural wonder in the Midwest.
5. Jewel Cave National Monument - Custer
Jewel Cave National Monument, 11149 US-16 B-12, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Arguably the crown jewel of South Dakota, Jewel Cave is a stunning cavern that is billed as being the broadest and deepest cave in the state, as well as the third largest cave in the world, housing 200+ miles of mapped passages. While the public can only access a few miles of the cave, there is still plenty to see and do, including tours and one-of-a-kind photo ops.
Jewel Cave may be the biggest cave in South Dakota, but Wind Cave is the oldest. In fact, Wind Cave, which houses a complex cave system that dates back millions of years, was one of the first national parks in America, as President Theodore Roosevelt established it in 1903. Have you ever visited the famous Wind Cave National Park? If not, it's an amazing national park to visit in South Dakota.
Have you ever visited these caves and waterfalls in South Dakota? If so, please share your experience(s) with us in the comments below.
We hope this list comes in handy the next time you are searching “waterfalls near me” in South Dakota. Are you looking for even more creative road trip ideas? If so, then you will want to take this gorgeous fall foliage road trip to see South Dakota like never before. Of course, it’s a beautiful drive to take during any season.
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caves and waterfalls in south dakota
Jennifer Young|February 08, 2023
What are the best waterfall trails in South Dakota?
There are some pretty incredible waterfalls in South Dakota, as you've learned in the article above. If you're someone who appreciates hiking to these beautiful landmarks, you'll be glad to hear that the Mount Rushmore State offers plenty of waterfall trails, including the following three:
What's one of the best caves to visit in South Dakota?
If you're looking for the best caves in South Dakota, you've come to the right place. South Dakota is a rather large state, and there are little-known wonders to be discovered in every corner of it, including caves. One of the best caves in South Dakota is Jewel Cave in Custer. What makes Jewel Cave so unique is the fact that it's the world's third-longest cave with more than 180 miles of mapped tunnels. It's also home to tons of cave formations.
