Hey, South Dakota - are you ready for incredible views, amazing overlooks, stunning geography, and just all-around outrageously photogenic surroundings? Have I got the trail in South Dakota for you! The Cliff Shelf Nature Trail is short, sweet, and absolutely wonderful for anyone with even a tiny bit of interest in hiking South Dakota. Its uniqueness definitely adds to its wonder; of the hundreds of hiking trails in South Dakota, this one is definitely one of the most awe-inspiring!
The Cliff Shelf Nature Trail might be short, at just a half-mile in length, but in that distance it manages to pack some of the coolest views in the Midwest.
Folks uninterested in hiking stairs, however, might want to skip this one. It starts, after all, with plenty of steps.
You follow an amazing boardwalk across some truly breathtaking views and vistas, never knowing what's next (unless you've hiked it before).
The hike, though brief, seems to pack all sorts of punches into its short distance.
Do keep in mind, though, should the steps be a bit intimidating, that this is an easy hike.
It's a little bit strenuous just because of the nature of stairs, but even young children should be able to do this trail in the end. And keep your eyes open: you can encounter wildlife, like birds and bison, along the way.
Be sure to keep your phone with you - or bring a camera.
You'll never want to forget the otherworldly beauty of the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail.
Should you choose to simply do the entire thing without stopping (why though?), it should take just over 12 minutes to finish.
I'm not sure why you'd want to rush this one, though - it's an awesome little adventure perfect for just about everyone who enjoys being outside. Blue skies above, rolling green hills and vistas below... it doesn't get much better than this.
Badlands National Park is an amazing look at just how epic the Dakotas are... come out and see!
For more information about the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail (and lots more pictures), be sure to visit its official AllTrails listing. It's short, sweet, and perfect for just about any day you want to get out into the world and enjoy it.
Need more ideas? Why not try all 12 of these amazing hikes in South Dakota (one for every month of the year). What are your all-time favorite trails in South Dakota? Let me know!
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