These 13 Scenic Overlooks In South Dakota Will Leave You Breathless
It’s easy to get busy with daily life and forget to stop and look around. Here in South Dakota, we’re often surrounded by natural beauty, but we don’t see if because we’re focused on jobs and family and mundane tasks. Here are some stunning photographs taken at scenic overlooks across the state that will remind you just how gorgeous South Dakota is!
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/5869585558_09bb9c0dfc_b-1.jpg?w=720)
A sunrise photo from the Big Badlands Overlook requires getting up really early in the morning, but it's well worth it when you get a shot like this.
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/6160787927_4ecf90c13b_b.jpg?w=720)
Climb the fire lookout tower, and you'll be rewarded by some of the most amazing views of the Black Hills.
Advertisement
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/9429757317_3a763de94d_k.jpg?w=720)
From the hill above Dino Park, you can catch a gorgeous view of Rapid City.
Advertisement
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/8912786119_4de38eea01_k.jpg?w=720)
This overlook shows you the steep cliffs lining the Big Sioux River in Dell Rapids, just 20 miles north of Sioux Falls.
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/9456419962_b5be5a89f4_k.jpg?w=720)
You can see the different layers of sediment in the yellow mounds of Badlands National Park. These mounds were created over millions of years.
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/33601343770_75ee873c13_k.jpg?w=720)
A drive through Custer State Park yields plenty of unmarked scenic overlooks. Take your time and pull off the road for some quick photos where it's safe to do so.
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/35780641466_d2ae397363_k.jpg?w=720)
A stunning view and some incredible rock formations make Pinnacles Overlook the most popular in Badlands National Park. It's well worth the stop.
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/8561343073_397a3c045c_k.jpg?w=720)
Sylavn Lake is one of the most popular in the Black Hills, and you'll see why once you get a look at this beauty.
Advertisement
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/904710409_cb4c79de9f_b.jpg?w=720)
The photographer doesn't mention where exactly this overlook is. Do you know? Tell us in the comments!
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/4755460543_f13b1ab81c_b.jpg?w=720)
Take the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail for incredible views like this one. It's an easy half-mile hike that's well worth your effort.
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/20638697793_c096e6f5da_k.jpg?w=720)
Climb the observation tower to see Sioux Falls Park from a vantage point you can't get anywhere else.
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/2745795574_49340f9ed9_b.jpg?w=720)
You'll have panoramic views of the prairie and surrounding farmland when you climb Nicollet Tower in Sisseton.
![](https://oiys-develop.go-vip.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/4657979601_c2b14e3809_b.jpg?w=720)
The viewing platform at Roughlock Falls gives you an up-close view of the beautiful Roughlock Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the state.
What’s your favorite view in South Dakota? Share you photos with us!
To witness even more natural beauty, take this hiking trail.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.