Is hiking and enjoying the great outdoors on your agenda this year? Then, do yourself a favor and visit all 12 of the best hikes in South Dakota, one for each month of the year. There is definitely something for every outdoor enthusiast on this list.

1. Good Earth State Park at Blood Run (Sioux Falls)
 Good Earth State Park Visitor Center, 26924 480th Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57108, USA
Good Earth State Park at Blood Run Facebook
When it comes to a wintertime hike, there is no better place to be than the Good Earth State Park at Blood Run, which just so happens to also be one of the newest state parks in South Dakota! Why do we call it one of the best wintertime hikes in the state? Take a second look at the picture and you will understand why. It's one of the most scenic hikes in South Dakota. Read more about Good Earth State Park.
2. George S. Mickelson Trail (Deadwood)
George S. Mickelson Trail, Deadwood, SD, USA
AllTrails/Jim Allen
South Dakota is known for its railroad history, but did you know that some of the old tracks have been converted into a stunning 109-mile path that follows the same route as the original Burlington Northern Railroad? Beginning in Edgemont and ending in Deadwood, the George S. Mickelson Trail is SoDak's first rail-to-trail and welcomes thousands of walkers, hikers, and bikers every year. 
3. Black Elk Peak (Pennington County)
Black Elk Peak, Mount Rushmore Unorganized Territory, SD 57751, USA
TripAdvisor/Adina P
Located a mere 3.7 miles southwest of Mount Rushmore, Black Elk Peak is arguably one of the most unique hikes in South Dakota, thanks – in part – to the turn-of-the-20th-century old stone fire tower at the top of the mountain. While climbing the peak may seem daunting, it is actually billed as moderate as the incline is low and slow (but the distance is long with a grueling elevation gain). Check out more about Black Elk Peak.
4. Sheridan Lake Flume Trail (Rapid City)
Flume Hiking Trail, 12979-23712 Pot Rustle Loop, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA
Flickr/Alex Calderon
We will admit that the Sheridan Lake Flume Trail is not for the faint of heart, as it spans a whopping 13 miles; however, visitors can create their own path via the Flume's three different sections, all of which contain wildlife, tunnels, and caves. Find out more about Sheridan Lake Flume Trail.
5. Notch Trail (Badlands National Park, Interior)
Notch Trail, Interior Township, SD 57750, USA
TripAdvisor/Jellybaby67
You know we couldn't have a list of the best hikes in South Dakota without mentioning the Badlands! Spanning 1.3 miles, Notch is an out-and-back trail that is also the most popular in the Park, thanks to its jaw-dropping views of the area's majestic spires and surrounding landscape.  See more about Notch Trail.
6. Ingersoll Mine (Keystone)
Bob Ingersoll Mine, Keystone, SD 57751, USA
Flickr/bl0ndeeo2
We mentioned South Dakota's railroad history, so now it is time to discuss our rich mining past, which can be seen firsthand at the Ingersoll Mine. Located near Keystone, the Ingersoll Mine sits at the end of a short-and-sweet trail and boasts its original architecture and machinery, making it a one-of-a-kind South Dakota hike! Read more about Ingersoll Mine.

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7. Cascade Falls (Hot Springs)
Cascade Falls, Northeast Fall River, SD 57747, USA
TripAdvisor/dmmh001
In the summertime, when the weather is high, there is no better hike than the Cascade Falls trail, which leads straight to a warm, 67-degree spring-fed swimming hole. Even better than the reward at the end (AKA the swimming hole) may be the fact that it's a nice easy hike in South Dakota. Learn more about Cascade Falls.
8. Spearfish Falls (Spearfish)
Spearfish Falls, North Lawrence, SD 57754, USA
TripAdvisor/bartleycrc
Who says that you have to work hard to reap the rewards? This is obviously not the case with Spearfish Falls, which can be viewed from the Spearfish Canyon Highway (Highway 14A), but can also be seen closer up should you choose to venture out of your car and down a short trail.  Check out more about Spearfish Falls.
9. Presidential Loop Trail (Keystone)
Mount Rushmore, Mt Rushmore, Mount Rushmore Unorganized Territory, SD 57751, USA
AllTrails/Julieta Romano
If you have ever visited Mount Rushmore, there is a good chance you have taken the Presidential Trail, which winds a mere half-mile through the park. Why is it called the Presidential Trail, you (hypothetically) ask? It is because it also offers a closer and better view of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Honest Abe. It's a great kid-friendly hike in South Dakota, too, as it's not a strenuous walk. Find out more about Presidential Loop Trail.
10. Trail of Spirits (Sica Hollow State Park, Sisseton)
Sica Hollow State Park, 44950 Park Road, Sisseton, SD 57260, USA
Flickr/Angela Smith
If the spookiest month of the year has you longing for an equally scary hike, the Trail of Spirits at Sica Hollow State Park is the place for you. Translating to "bad or evil" in Dakota Sioux, Sica Hollow is said to be home to numerous unexplainable occurrences, including red-tinted water that once gushed out of the springs, the sound of drums, and sightings of mysterious figures when no one else is around, and the eerie disappearances of several people who were never found. See more about Trail of Spirits.
11. Devil’s Gulch (Garretson)
Devils Gulch, Garretson, SD 57030, USA
AllTrails/Nugget Lotto
There is only one word that can properly describe the 1/2-mile trail: legendary! Located near Garretson, Devil's Gulch is legendary thanks to its beautiful landscape, but it is the story surrounding the area that makes it even better, as Jesse James is said to have once dived into the river from the bridge during an escape from law enforcement.  Read more about Devil's Gulch.
12. Falls Park (Sioux Falls)
East Falls Park Drive, E Falls Park Dr, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
Experience Sioux Falls Facebook
Falls Park is a beautiful park in Sioux Falls. Here, you can enjoy gorgeous paths that lead you all around the park. Learn more about Falls Park.

For even more of our favorite South Dakota hikes, check out these 10 gorgeous hikes that everyone in South Dakota must complete.

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More to Explore

Best Hikes in South Dakota

Danielle Schwartz | June 18, 2022

Which state parks should I visit in South Dakota?

There are 56 state parks in South Dakota, so it can be hard to decide which one to visit first! Luckily, we’ve put together a list of some of the best ones. Check out Newton Hills State Park in Canton if you’re looking for some incredible bird watching. It’s so tranquil and lovely to hear the chorus of beautiful bird songs as you wander through the natural surroundings. Another great choice is Lake Herman State Park. Located in Madison, you will love the peaceful atmosphere and gorgeous water views. 

What are the best outdoor adventures in South Dakota?

If you’re feeling ready for anything, head to some of these amazing destinations that will provide you with the best outdoor adventures in South Dakota. One exciting outdoor foray is the Sioux Falls Trail Loop, right along the Big Sioux River. It’s a long trail, at 19 miles, but you will love every minute of your time here with the wind in your hair. Up for a longer trip with overnight stays? Make the challenging trip to the George S. Mickelson State Trail, which is 109 miles long! It’s not too difficult a walk, but the distance will ensure that you need plenty of breaks!

What are the best family-friendly hikes in South Dakota?

When you’re planning a trip that the whole family can enjoy, you’ll be looking for outdoor activities that are doable for your kids while still being fun for the adults. These family-friendly hikes in South Dakota are the way to go for nice trails that will keep everyone entertained without being too simple. One great choice is the famous Presidential Trail at Keystone, which offers some historical significance! Another nice option is Buzzard Trail and Loop. The views on this trail are fantastic!

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