Hike the Riparian Loop Trail at South Dakota’s Newest State Park for an Unforgettable Adventure

Hidden away at the newest state park in South Dakota is a handful of amazing hiking trails that have received less love over the years than other, more well-established ones throughout the state. One of these trails just so happens to be one of my all-time favorites in the entire state; known as the Riparian Loop Trail, this incredible South Dakota hiking trail features some of the most breathtaking landscapes you'll ever see - and it's right in our backyards.

Good Earth State Park was established in 2013, and over the years the parks service has developed several incredible hikes within that are absolutely day-trip worthy. Amazingly, it's the site of one of the oldest places of long-term human habitation in the United States, and thanks to this history, the trails contained within are both beautiful and fascinating. Imagine the stories they could tell.

The Riparian Loop Trail is a hike that meanders through the riverbottom of the Big Soux River, and it's easily the most beautiful adventure in the entire park, if you ask me.

It's not overly long, coming in at just 2.3 miles in length. It's quite shady for most of the way, and as you pass through this amazing oak forest you'll fall in love with South Dakota all over again. Did I mention how amazing the scenery is on this one? Because yeah... it's worth mentioning again.

Along the way as you hike, you'll wander through oak forest, shrubby woodlands, riverbeds, and more. You'll find delight after delight to discover and enjoy; I strongly suspect that anyone as obsessed with the outdoors as I am will find themselves daydreaming about this particular hike right up to the day they hike it again.

The views of the river you'll catch on this trail are jaw-dropping; if you're a fan of landscape photography, this hike is a dream come true (bring the camera). Thanks to the close proximity of the water, the Riparian Loop is an excellent place for wildlife watching in South Dakota (hence the name).

To hike the awesome Riparian Loop Trail, you'll have to get into Good Earth State Park. Day passes are just $8 per vehicle, which covers anything you want to do while you're here (more than just the trails, obviously).

The park is located not terribly far from Sioux Falls, making it an awesome option for a day trip (or a camping trip). Do keep in mind, though, that between October 1 and April 30, showers, flush toilets and other water-based systems may or may not be closed - so contact the park ahead of time if you need to know.

Need more info about this amazing hiking trail, including a handy map? Check out the official AllTrails listing for Riparian Loop Trail at Good Earth State Park. If you're into hiking and want to upgrade your hiking game, check out AllTrails Plus while you're there. I love it.

Do you have a favorite hiking trail in South Dakota? Tell me about it in the comments; I love learning about all your favorite places to get out and enjoy the outdoors.