South Dakota is a special place – and it certainly doesn’t get the credit it truly deserves. If you’re a fan of being outside, with all the outdoor adventures and activities in South Dakota, ours is the perfect state for you. You’d be amazed at just how many things there are to do, see, and experience in this amazing place, and here’s some great news: I’ve gone ahead and created a handy-dandy itinerary for the ultimate weekend in South Dakota. Looking for adventure? I’ve jam-packed it into this awesome (but still relaxing) adventure. Let’s go!

From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.

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With just two and a half hours of total driving time, you'll be able to spend more time exploring and less time driving. Score! Follow along on Google Maps.

Hike Spearfish Canyon

Roughlock Falls Trail, Lead, SD, USA
Matthew Paulson/Flickr
Nestled within Spearfish Canyon is the breathtaking Roughlock Falls.

You could spend hours hiking, exploring, and enjoying all the wonders that the canyon contains. It's astronomically beautiful, and well worth a few hours' time of exploration. You'll find the Roughlock Falls trailhead just beyond Spearfish Canyon Lodge, along FSR 222. Of the three waterfalls within the canyon, Roughlock is the most beloved.

See more of the trails around Spearfish Canyon


Get Lunch At The Miller Creek Pub & Patio

Miller Creek Pub and Patio/Facebook
Miller Creek Pub and Patio is famous for the beautiful views from its stunning patio. Found on the grounds of Elkhorn Ridge Resort, this restaurant is fine dining plus all the luxuries of an amazing natural view.
The Miller Creek Pub & Patio, Saint Onge Road, Spearfish, SD, USA
Miller Creek Pub and Patio/Facebook
Enjoy steaks, seafood, chicken, chops, and some of the finest appetizers. Do keep in mind that the restaurant is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly! The overall vibe is relaxed and casual - perfect for relaxing after a few hours of meandering around a canyon!

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Hike the Incredible Cathedral Spires Trail

Aaron Duncan/AllTrails
This incredible hiking trail in South Dakota might just be one of the state's very best. It's challenging, but I promise it's worth the effort. Along the way, you'll encounter some of the most fascinating geological formations in the entire state...
Cathedral Spires Trailhead, Custer, SD, USA
Alex Dodd/AllTrails
...as well as some truly breathtaking views. You'll definitely want to make sure you're wearing good, sturdy hiking shoes, and bring plenty of water. South Dakota might be fairly northern, but it can still get pretty warm in the spring, summer, and even early autumn.

See more of the Cathedral Spires Trail


Spend the Night At A Rustic Cabin Getaway

Mountain Crest, Deadwood, Auth/Hand-Hewn,Secluded,WiFi,Sno Mob/ATV,100mi View/VRBO
By now, there's no way you're not exhausted. Me, too. Well, off to the next stop: We're staying the night at this incredible log cabin.

It's huge, secluded, quiet, and perfect for quite literally getting away from just about everything. "Away from it all," in this case, really is away from most things.
Mountain Crest, Deadwood, Auth/Hand-Hewn,Secluded,WiFi,Sno Mob/ATV,100mi View/VRBO
You won't believe the amazing views from every vantage point in the cabin. To book your stay (and I STRONGLY suggest you book WELL in advance), be sure to check out the cabin’s VRBO listing

Finally, Spend the Day at the Beach

Legion Lake, East Custer, SD, USA
Christopher Marts/Google Local
I've only got one thing planned for day two, and that's an idyllic day spent by the beach. The beach at Legion Lake, specifically.
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So, do you have any upcoming plans? Perhaps you’ll want to embark upon this amazing adventure. Let me know what you think in the comments – and suggest some other outdoor adventures and activities in South Dakota, too!

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