Take These 12 Incredible South Dakota Hikes, One For Each Month Of The Year

Is hiking and enjoying the great outdoors on your agenda this year? It’s certainly on mine, and The Mount Rushmore State offers more than enough variety to keep things interesting all year long. From snowy winter walks to warm summer treks, there’s a trail for every season. This list highlights 12 of the best hikes in South Dakota—one for each month—so no matter when you visit, you’ll have a reason to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails.

1. January: Bur Oak Trail, Good Earth State Park

When it comes to a wintertime hike, there is no better place to be than Good Earth State Park at Blood Run near Sioux Falls, one of South Dakota’s newest state parks. Much of the park’s beauty unfolds along the Bur Oak Trail, a short loop through bur oak forest and along the Big Sioux River. Take one look at the image above and you’ll see why this is considered one of the most scenic winter hikes in the state.

2. February: Split Rock Creek Trail, Palisades State Park

February transforms Split Rock Creek Trail at Palisades State Park into a quiet winter escape. The trail follows the icy creek past towering Sioux quartzite cliffs, and frost often coats the rocky ledges and bare trees, creating a stark contrast against the pale winter sky. Even on the coldest days, the rugged scenery and frozen waterfalls make this short out‑and‑back trail unforgettable.

3. March: Black Elk Peak, Black Elk Wilderness

Located just 3.7 miles southwest of Mount Rushmore, Black Elk Peak is one of the most distinctive hikes in South Dakota—thanks in part to the turn-of-the-20th-century stone fire tower at the summit. While the climb might seem daunting, it’s actually rated moderate, with a gradual incline that makes the ascent manageable, even though the distance is long and the elevation gain is challenging. March brings fewer crowds and a trail that may be wintery, depending on the weather.

4. April: George S. Mickelson Trail, Deadwood

South Dakota is known for its railroad history, but did you know some of the old tracks have been transformed into a epic 109-mile path that follows the route of the original Burlington Northern Railroad? Beginning in Edgemont and ending in Deadwood, the George S. Mickelson Trail is the state’s first rail-to-trail and welcomes thousands of walkers, hikers, and bikers each year. In April, the trail comes alive with blooming wildflowers, and the mild weather makes the trail stretches especially enjoyable for walking or biking.

5. May: Flume Trail, Black Hills National Forest

I'll admit the Flume Trail isn’t for the faint of heart, stretching a whopping 13 miles, but visitors can create their own route using the trail’s three sections, each offering wildlife, tunnels, and caves to explore. By late spring, the trail sheds its winter chill, inviting hikers to discover its twists, turns, and hidden spots.

6. June: Spearfish Falls, Black Hills National Forest

Who says you have to work hard to reap the rewards? Located just outside the town of Spearfish, Spearfish Falls can be viewed right from the Spearfish Canyon Highway (Highway 14A), though a short trail lets you get even closer. June is an especially good month to visit, when spring runoff and early summer rains often make the waterfall fuller and more impressive.

7. July: Cascade Falls, Black Hills National Forest

When summer is in full swing, and the weather is high, there’s no better hike than the trail to Cascade Falls near Hot Springs, which leads straight to a warm, 67-degree spring-fed swimming hole. Even better than the swimming hole at the end may be that it’s a nice, easy hike through South Dakota’s woods.

8. August: Presidential Loop Trail, Mount Rushmore National Memorial

If you’ve visited Mount Rushmore, there’s a good chance you’ve walked part of the Presidential Loop Trail, a short half-mile path winding through the park. The trail earns its name by offering up-close views of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln. With its easy terrain and brief distance, it’s a great option for families squeezing in one last outing before kids head back to school.

9. September: Devil’s Gulch, Garretson

There’s only one word that properly describes this half-mile trail: legendary. Located near Garretson, Devil’s Gulch is well known for its rugged scenery, but it’s the story behind the area that makes it even more memorable—Jesse James is said to have leapt into the river from the bridge while escaping law enforcement.

10. October: Notch Trail at Badlands National Park

You know I couldn’t have a list of the best hikes in South Dakota without mentioning the Badlands. Spanning about 1.5 miles round trip, Notch is an out‑and‑back trail that leads through a canyon, up a log ladder, and out to a dramatic overlook of the White River Valley—framed by the park’s jagged spires and sweeping landscape. In October, the cooler temperatures and soft autumn light make the scenery even more striking, perfect for a fall hike.

11. November: Summit Trail, Bear Butte State Park

November is the ideal time to tackle the Summit Trail at Bear Butte State Park. Crisp fall air makes the climb up the rugged trail invigorating, and with fewer crowds, you can fully take in the panoramic views from the summit. The late-fall vista—golden grasses, bare trees, and wide-open skies—adds a quiet, reflective beauty to this classic South Dakota hike.

12. December: Falls Park, Sioux Falls

Falls Park is a beautiful spot in Sioux Falls, and during December it really shines with festive holiday lights that twinkle across the paths and waterfalls. Stroll the scenic trails winding throughout the park and take in the chilly winter air along with the sparkling displays—it’s the best way to enjoy the season.

Each of these 12 hikes in South Dakota offers something unique, from historic sites to hidden natural gems. Take the year as your guide and explore them all—you might be surprised at what you discover along the way.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own South Dakota hikes using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner, or take it a step further with AllTrails Plus for trail maps, reviews, and insider tips on all 12 hikes.