Have you ever asked yourself, “What are the best waterfalls in South Dakota?” If you have, you’re in the right place. We took the liberty of seeking out hiking trails with waterfalls in The Mount Rushmore State, and we must say that we are pretty pleased with the selection. And once you peruse our list of the best waterfall hikes in South Dakota, we think you will be too.

1. Bridal Veil Falls
Spearfish Canyon Highway, Spearfish Canyon Hwy, Spearfish, SD, USA
AR Nature Gal/Flickr
The name for this 60-foot waterfall couldn't be more fitting. The way the water sprays over the rocks looks like a white bridal veil, and it is simply gorgeous. It is part of Spearfish Canyon, but it isn't the only one in the canyon. There is also Spearfish Falls, which you'll read about next.

For more info on Bridal Veil Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in South Dakota, visit the Black Hills and Badlands website.
2. Spearfish Falls
Spearfish Falls, North Lawrence, SD 57754, USA
David Bair/Flickr
Water from Spearfish Creek cascades 47 feet in a spectacular fashion at Spearfish Falls. At one point, it was one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Black Hills. Today, you can still visit the beautiful falls and see their beauty for yourself.

For more info on Spearfish Falls in South Dakota, visit the Spearfish website.
3. Roughlock Falls
Roughlock Falls, South Lawrence, SD, USA
Tom Pickering/Flickr
Adjacent to the Spearfish Canyon is another carved chasm that features many gorgeous South Dakota waterfalls cascading down its rocks. It is definitely understandable why it's one of the most photographed places in the Black Hills, and with the easily accessible trails along the way, you can't pass up bringing your camera to this spot to get some of your own shots.

For more info on Roughlock Falls in South Dakota, visit the Spearfish website.

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4. Another area of Roughlock Falls
Roughlock Falls, South Lawrence, SD, USA
AR Nature Gal/Flickr
There are so many falls to see in that canyon, you really have to visit it yourself to get the true experience. Trust us - it is absolutely worth it just to see some of the best waterfalls in South Dakota.
5. Thunderhead Falls
Thunderhead Falls, Mount Rushmore UT, SD 57702, USA
Holly Hayes/Flickr
Making its way out of the darkness of a former gold mine, Thunderhead Falls rushes out into the daylight and creates some beautiful falls, both within and outside of the mountain. It is located just 10 miles outside of Rapid City. If you want to, you can go into the mine to see where it drops from the ceiling, or you can just see them from outside. Either way, it's one of the most impressive South Dakota waterfalls!

For more info on Thunderhead Falls in South Dakota, visit the Black Hills website.
6. Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls, Northeast Fall River, SD 57747, USA
AR Nature Gal/Flickr
These delightful falls drop into a popular swimming hole near Hot Springs. The name of the place is fitting, as the water is always warm. It serves as one of South Dakota's oldest swimming holes and is still open for use today. With the soft murmur of the falls in the background and comfortably warm water, Cascade Falls beats a pool any day!

For more info on Cascade Falls in South Dakota, visit the U.S. Forest Service website.

Well, what do you think of this list of the best waterfalls in South Dakota? Have you ever visited the falls mentioned above? Or do you know of any other hiking trails with waterfalls in South Dakota? Tell us!

These might be some of the best waterfall hikes in South Dakota, but that doesn’t mean they’re the only spots worth exploring. There are tons of can’t-miss treks in the state, including the five best hikes in South Dakota.

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More to Explore

Best Waterfalls In South Dakota

Daniella DiRienzo | March 02, 2022

Aside from waterfalls, what are some other natural wonders to explore in South Dakota?

There are many stunning natural wonders in South Dakota to explore, including Cathedral Spires and Limber Pine Natural Area. Located within Custer State Park, the area is filled with finger-like granite spires, which rise from the forest floor, earning the natural area the distinction of being one of the most visually stunning spots in the Black Hills.

Are there any other hiking trails with waterfalls in South Dakota?

When it comes to hiking trails with waterfalls in South Dakota, there are several. Some falls are extremely popular. Others aren’t as widely known. Grizzly Bear Falls definitely falls into the latter category. The lesser-known waterfall is located near Mount Rushmore and can be easily reached via a short trail along the scenic Grizzly Bear Creek.

Are there any other waterfalls in South Dakota?

There are several stunning waterfalls in South Dakota, including Sioux Falls. It’s truly the highlight of the 120-acre Falls Park – and for good reason. Standing at over 100 feet tall, thousands of gallons of water topple over the top of the waterfall every second. And while the cascade is the highlight of the park, it’s not the park’s only perk. The grounds also include a café, nature trail, historic sites, and more.

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