South Dakota is one of those states that's ridiculously beautiful... but next to nobody ever visits. Often overlooked in favor of more popular "destination" states (even a few in the Midwest), this state is a smorgasbord of delectable hidden gems all waiting to be discovered. We've assembled this handy shortlist of 11 of the best hidden gems in South Dakota; how many of these have you already learned about? What would you add to the list if you could? Let us know!
East of Sioux Falls just off the I-90 in Brandon is the awesome, lesser-known-about Big Sioux Recreation Area, where the Big Sioux River flows right on through and the sunrises are incredible. Hike the Prairie Vista Trail and check out the epic suspension bridge over the river – it's absolutely awesome! There are also things like an old, historic cabin, more hiking trails, frisbee golf, and more.
Fun fact: there are totally a such thing as islands in South Dakota - they just might look a little different than you’ve come to expect of such a thing. This little slice of paradise seems to have it all: sandy beaches (albeit small ones), hills, trees, and abundant wildlife. Explore this one overnight – you'll love having the extra time here.
So here’s one of the most unique attractions in South Dakota - a museum of sorts where almost everything is constructed out of petrified wood. There are more than 100 awesomely unique sculptures and formations made of the stuff ‘round here, and it’s quite the sight to behold. Though it was built between 1930 and 1932, it was private property until the 1950s – and today, you can always check it out.
The Mammoth Site in South Dakota is one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time, offering up a record number of mammoth remains and fossils unlike anywhere else on earth. If you grew up here, you’ve probably already been – but you’d be amazed at how few people outside of South Dakota (and maybe North Dakota) are even aware of its existence. This is a relatively “young” dig site, as it was discovered back in the 1970s. To date, the remains of 60 mammoths have been excavated here. Surreal!
Legend has it that once upon a time, infamous outlaw Jesse James himself jumped this old gulch on a horse... though this rumor has never been confirmed. Nevertheless, the incredible wonder that is the Devil's Gulch is far too beautiful to go as unnoticed as it does. This is another one of those “locals get it, visitors don’t” kinds of places that we live for. What a gem it is!
Bear Butte State Park is located not-too-far from the famous small town of Sturgis, and it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re ever able to. This small mountain is considered sacred by several local Native groups, so please make sure to respect the region and do not touch prayer flags or any other offerings left behind. As long as you can abide by the take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints mantra, you’re golden, and you can enjoy this absolutely epic view that folks have been awed by for thousands of years.
Hidden on the South Dakota State University is the wondrouslu magical McCrory Gardens, which is one of the best hidden gems in South Dakota for anyone who love a good, old-fashioned garden. This one happens to be 70 awesome acres, and no matter the season, it’s a tour de force of natural beauty brought together perfectly by human hands. There are 25 acres of flowers alone! Oh, and there’s also the 45-acre arboretum... honestly, it’s all worthy of a day trip.
Since there are so many notable lakes in South Dakota, it becomes fairly obvious as to why some might fall between the cracks. One such lake is Lake Louise, which is located at the aptly-named Lake Louise Recreation Area. This man-made lake is 164 beautiful acres popular among boaters, fishers, swimmers and nature lovers alike. Should you decide you don’t want to leave, no problem: check out one of the 40 wonderful campsites present at Lake Louise! Sunrise on the lake never looked so idyllic.
Hidden up near the tri-state area that makes up the state lines of South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota is a spot the locals love that nobody else knows about. It’s the jaw-dropping views for us, though, that make the old Nicollet Tower worth checking out (and climbing). This tower was built in the early 1990s and is an impressive 80 feet tall. With 80 steps to the top, it makes for a great workout with a stellar view.
Ah, yes, another one of the best hidden lakes in South Dakota! Lake Vermillion is a stunning, 512-acre man-made reservoir with sparkling, clean water and all the opportunity for outdoorsy adventure you could hope for. Just west of Sioux Falls, this lake is a favorite among the locals and a secret for everyone else. Try your hand at kayaking, fishing, paddleboarding, or any other number of wonderfully fun outdoor activities.
When it comes to ghost towns in South Dakota, Spokane is one of the best in the state, if not the whole country. This wonderfully-preserved window into the past is a reminder of how far we’ve come... and maybe just how far we’ll go. Take the aptly-named Spokane Ghost Town Trail to discover this awesomely spooky old ghost town and learn a little about everything that once was.
There they are - 11 of the best, coolest hidden gems in South Dakota you might not have ever even heard of (especially if you're from out-of-state). Do you have any you'd like to add? Let us know. If you're planning to road trip this one, you can't miss our awesome road trip packing list. And for your hiking adventures, we think you’ll find the AllTrails app very helpful!
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/hidden-gems-2024/
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