Posted in South Dakota
March 31, 2018
This Short 1-Mile Hike In South Dakota Has The Most Breathtaking Views
There’s nothing like getting out into South Dakota’s national parks, hiking a trail or two, and enjoying some gorgeous scenery and fresh air. If you’ve ever visited Wind Cave National Park, you know all about the stunning cave that’s underground, but the rest of the park features some truly scenic natural beauty above ground. Take this short little hike to get an eagle’s eye view.
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 beautiful place is not only home to the sixth-longest cave in the world, but it also includes 33,847 acres of mixed-grass prairie and ponderosa pine forest. There are 30 miles of hiking trails to help you explore this pretty park.

To find the trailhead, start at the Visitor Center. Drive north to US-385, then turn left on SD-87. Drive north until you see the signs for the Rankin Ridge parking lot, where you'll find the trailhead.

It's a fairly easy hike, but because it has an elevation gain of 239 feet, it's rated as moderate. The trail features 13 interpretive signs with information about the park and its plants and animals. Grab a nature trail guide at the Visitor Center so you don't miss anything.

Keep going... the climb is well worth your effort!

You might see squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, and a wide range of birds, including woodpeckers and bluebirds.



You'll look out over Wind Cave National Park, and you can see for miles up here.

You'll definitely want to stay awhile and gaze at this view.
Have you hiked this pretty little trail? Tell us about it! Don’t forget to share photos of your South Dakota adventures on our South Dakota Nature Lovers group on Facebook!
If you’re ready for more South Dakota exploration, check out this sweet little hike that takes you to a cool tower.
Address: 26611 US-385, Hot Springs, SD 57747, USA