let us do the work

Effortlessly plan your next adventure with AI
NatureHiking

You’ll Fall In Love With The Tiny Waterfall Hiding Along This Breathtaking South Dakota Trail

Published May 28, 2024

Written by 

Tori Jane

Hidden away within the Black Hills National Forest is the trailhead for one of the state's best adventures. The Willow Creek Trail is just two and a half miles in length, but it's a rewarding one - with stunning forests, watchable wildlife, and even a small waterfall in South Dakota. This awesome hike in SD is a hidden gem. It's easy, doesn't take terribly long, and I promise: It's wonderfully rewarding!

The amazing Willow Creek Trail offers some of the downright best views and natural delights in the entire state.

A dirt path leads through a green landscape with pine trees, marked by a wooden sign for trail number 9.
Audrey Alfson/AllTrails

On this adventure, you'll follow a stream until you reach my favorite part: a little waterfall nestled in the woods. Just wait 'til you see it!

The Black Hills is an amazing place, filled to the brim with world-class hiking, mountain biking, camping, and more.

A scenic view of mountains in the distance, surrounded by lush green trees and a grassy field under a blue sky.
Wendy Peterson/AllTrails

Hikers will definitely need to be comfortable with sharing the trail with horseback riders, as it's a very popular spot for equestrians. Personally, I don't mind - I love horses!

Perhaps the best part of the entire place, though, is the itty-bitty waterfall you'll find yourself face-to-face with.

A serene waterfall cascades between moss-covered rocks in a lush, green forest.
Axel Bost/AllTrails

One of my favorite things to do is sit nearby the little cascade; I love to listen to the sounds of running water, knowing I'm surrounded by the breathtaking wilderness of South Dakota.

To reach the trailhead, drive Highway 244 and head westbound after Mount Rushmore.

A winding dirt path through a grassy area, surrounded by tall trees and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.
Greg Robinson/AllTrails

Across from the Mount Rushmore Koa Campground, you'll notice a road that leads to a nearby horse camp. There, you'll discover a large parking lot and the trailhead is easy to find.

Although this amazing trail is considered easy, I still strongly recommend wearing sunblock and good, sturdy hiking shoes.

A grassy field with tall grass, surrounded by trees and a rocky outcrop under a cloudy sky.
Justin Peretti/AllTrails

I also recommend that you take a while to stop at the waterfall and do some reflecting (see what I did there?). You never know what you might brainstorm up while relaxing in such a peaceful environment.

As of May 2024, the trail has been re-opened following a lengthy construction project nearby that kept the trailhead inaccessible.

A person stands on a trail with a dog, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains in the background.
Wendy Peterson/AllTrails

So, come on out to the Willow Creek Trail - a wonderful hike that leads to a small waterfall in South Dakota.

For more information about Willow Creek Trail, check its official AllTrails listing; if you're a lover of hiking like I am, I definitely recommend checking out AllTrails Plus.

Do you have a favorite tiny waterfall in South Dakota? Tell me about it in the comments - I love learning about your favorite places.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Stays
Vacation Rentals

This Historic Brick Brownstone Is One of the Most Successful Airbnbs in Massachusetts

Step inside a historic Victorian brownstone overlooking Union Park in Boston’s sought-after South End. With three floors of living space and some of the city’s best restaurants, shops, and landmarks within walking distance, this Airbnb offers a memorable way to experience Boston.

by Megan Todaro
on Jul 21
The exterior of a brick building in Boston Massachusetts, where one of the most historic Airbnbs is.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

The 11 Most Spectacular Tree Tunnel Drives in America

Some roads exist just to get you somewhere else. These eleven don't, and that's exactly the point.

by Marisa Roman
on Jul 21
Cypress tree tunnel at Point Reyes, California, USA
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The 17 Most Charming Hidden Towns You’ve Never Heard Of Across the U.S.

Every state hides at least one town this good, and locals would rather keep it that way. We found 17 of them, from quiet river towns to desert outposts, so you can get there before everyone else does.

by Marisa Roman
on Jul 21
Dahlonega, Georgia aerial view, one of the most charming hidden towns in the U.S.
Trips & Routes
Travel Preparation & Advice

The Regional Airports Across America With the Most and Least Expensive Airfare (2026 Rankings)

Only In Your State used government data to compare average airfare costs for departing flights at more than 100 of America’s regional airports to find where travelers get the most bang for their buck.

by Josh Koebert
on Jul 21
ATI cargo Boeing 767 aircraft and air traffic control tower, SeaTac Seattle, USA
Trips & Routes

Endless Outdoor Adventures Await in These 6 Small Towns in Oklahoma

Check out the most outdoorsy towns in Oklahoma, from hiking and paddling destinations to charming communities surrounded by natural beauty.

by Christy Articola
on Jul 21
The bow of a kayak is shown on a river with thick forest on both sides.