Posted in South Dakota
May 22, 2017
11 Amazing South Dakota Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love
You can easily spend all day hiking the beautiful trails in South Dakota, but sometimes you want to reach your destination in just an hour or two. These short hikes are all less than three miles.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
This somewhat strenuous trail takes you to the summit of Bear Mountain, where you'll enjoy some spectacular views. The trail is about three miles long, round trip.
Pack a picnic lunch and take this easy little one-mile stroll along the river at Union Grove State Park.
This trail takes you up through the Ponderosa pines and provides some stunning views of the lake below. The trail makes a complete loop of 2.3 miles. Bring your pup along!
This easy hike is perfect for just about everyone. It's almost completely flat, and rated ADA-accessible. And...it takes you to a gorgeous waterfall! The trail is a two-mile loop.
On a hot, summer day, this short one-mile hike is perfect. You'll cross and re-cross the stream several times, so you'll definitely get your feet wet. And once you reach the waterfall, you'll find it hard to resist taking a little dip.
One of the coolest ways to explore Badlands National Park, this trail features a ladder that takes you right up to the plateau. It's just 1.3 miles out and back.
This azure-blue lake is a little gem in Custer State Park, and you'll enjoy a simple stroll along the one-mile path. Watch for bison and wildflowers.
This pretty little trail is just a third mile long and takes you to an incredible overlook. Keep kids and pets back from the edge - it's pretty scary.
Big Sioux Recreation Area has a few hikes, but the Prairie Vista Trail might be the most rewarding. Cross the river on the suspension bridge, and climb some fairly steep sections for a total of 2.8 miles.
This half-mile trail is popular with both tourists and locals alike. Bring your camera, because you'll have great views of the Mount Rushmore.
This little half-mile nature trail in Badlands National Park has some great views and pretty wildflowers to boot.
What’s your favorite hiking trail in South Dakota?
