South Dakota winters can be pretty brutal, with freezing cold temperatures and howling, icy winds. When we're in the depths of this coldest season, we can sometimes forget just how amazing South Dakota winters can really be. In fact, it's the perfect time to remember the good things about a South Dakota winter. Here are 12 scenes to remind you why winter in South Dakota really isn't so bad.

1. Winter in South Dakota means seeing the frozen falls in a completely new way

When the falls freeze over, they take on an entirely different kind of beauty. You might feel as though you've stepped into a winter wonderland. (Don't forget to bring your camera to capture this majestic winter beauty.)

2. Zipping along a snowy trail on a snowmobile

Explore the snowy landscape on a snowmobile - it's a great way to cover a lot of ground and see plenty of beautiful scenery. If you're not up for a snowmobile ride, you have plenty of other ways to explore South Dakota in winter - snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and hiking are just a few of them.

While you're planning your South Dakota winter trip, you might be curious about the average snowfall in South Dakota, it's going to depend on the area you visit, but generally speaking, the state sees average annual snowfall totals of between 30 to 70 inches.

3. Winter visits to Badlands National Park

Forget visiting in the heat of the summer, when you're surrounded by tourists. Go during the winter, when the snow gives the Badlands some interesting dimension, and the tourists are few and far between. If you thought the Badlands were gorgeous in other seasons, wait until you see them in the winter.

4. Saying hello to the presidents

This iconic historic landmark looks pretty great in the snow, and fewer people means your visit will be much more peaceful, allowing you to take more time to enjoy this normally crowd-packed destination. Wear a pair of sturdy shoes, and bundle up for your visit. While the .06-mile Presidential Trail - which includes 422 stairs - is usually closed in the winter, you might strike it lucky and visit on a day when it's open on a day with decent weather conditions.

5. Swimming in the warm, heated waters of Evans Plunge Mineral Springs

The indoor pool at Evans Plunge is the best place to be on a snowy day. The water's temperature stays at a delightful 87 degrees Fahrenheit.

Did you know that Evans Plunge Mineral Springs is the oldest tourist attraction in the Black Hills?

6. Enjoying South Dakota's most beautiful places in quiet solitude

There's nothing like visiting your favorite outdoor locations, such as Spearfish Canyon, when they are covered in snow. It's usually much easier to find some solitude in nature during the winter, too.

7. Winter in South Dakota is great for hiking

Get your butt off the couch and stretch those legs! Winter is a great time for a hike, and you'll find plenty of suitable trails that range from easy to difficult. Just make sure you dress for the weather; wear sturdy boots (don't forget those microspikes and snowshoes), and bring your camera. Remember to always tell someone where you'll be before you set off, too, just in case of an emergency.

8. Riding the lift and flying down the runs is one of the best things to do during Winter in South Dakota

Grab your skis or snowboard and head to Great Bear Ski Valley for a fun-filled day of skiing or snowboarding. Can you think of a better way to enjoy these snowy South Dakota winters?

9. Hopping on a tube and cruising down the hills, then doing it all over again

While you're at Great Bear Ski Valley, check out the tubing hill! This epic South Dakota destination just might become your go-to place all winter long.

10. Hanging out on a frozen lake

Ice fishing just might be one of the best ways to spend a winter day. And with any luck, you'll get to enjoy fresh-caught fish for dinner.

11. Sleigh rides in the Black Hills

Winter in South Dakota was made for enchanting moments, like watching the snow-covered landscape pass by as you sit in an old-fashioned sleigh. Andy's Trail Rides in Lead offers winter sleigh rides that take you through some of South Dakota's prettiest scenery. Check out their Facebook page for more info.

12. Watching your favorite team battle it out on the ice

Hockey is one of the best things about winter, and we love the Sioux Falls Stampede.

C'mon, admit it. South Dakota winters aren't so bad, are they? What do you love most about winter in South Dakota? Let us know in the comments! And here's a fun fact you may not know: in the winter of 1943, South Dakota set a record for the fastest temperature change.

For a more in-depth look into winter living in South Dakota, watch the video below:

Lastly, if you find yourself asking, "How much does it snow in South Dakota?", you'll be surprised to learn that the snowiest town in South Dakota receives nearly 200 inches of snow per year! That's pretty impressive, wouldn't you say?