This Short 1-Mile Hike In South Dakota Has The Most Breathtaking Views

There's nothing like getting out into South Dakota's national parks, hiking a trail or two, and enjoying some gorgeous scenery and fresh air. If you've ever visited Wind Cave National Park, you know all about the stunning cave that's underground, but the rest of the park features some truly scenic natural beauty above ground. Take this short little hike to get an eagle's eye view.

Wind Cave National Park is one of South Dakota's treasured gems.

This beautiful place is not only home to the sixth-longest cave in the world, but it also includes 33,847 acres of mixed-grass prairie and ponderosa pine forest. There are 30 miles of hiking trails to help you explore this pretty park.

The Rankin Ridge Trail is a short trail that's appropriate for most hikers, and it shows you one of the park's most scenic vistas.

To find the trailhead, start at the Visitor Center. Drive north to US-385, then turn left on SD-87. Drive north until you see the signs for the Rankin Ridge parking lot, where you'll find the trailhead.

The trail makes a one-mile-long loop and takes you through a shady ponderosa pine forest.

It's a fairly easy hike, but because it has an elevation gain of 239 feet, it's rated as moderate. The trail features 13 interpretive signs with information about the park and its plants and animals. Grab a nature trail guide at the Visitor Center so you don't miss anything.

There are a few tough sections, including this spot where you'll climb some stairs set into the mountain.

Keep going... the climb is well worth your effort!

Watch for wildlife along the way.

You might see squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, and a wide range of birds, including woodpeckers and bluebirds.

If you're lucky, you'll see a herd of bison or pronghorn grazing in the meadows below.

As you reach the top of the ridge, you'll begin to see some of the incredible views that await.

The views from the top of the ridge are incredible.

You'll look out over Wind Cave National Park, and you can see for miles up here.

This is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch.

You'll definitely want to stay awhile and gaze at this view.

Have you hiked this pretty little trail? Tell us about it! Don't forget to share photos of your South Dakota adventures on our South Dakota Nature Lovers group on Facebook!

If you're ready for more South Dakota exploration, check out this sweet little hike that takes you to a cool tower.