The winter holidays are quickly approaching! If you’re looking for a way to greet the Christmas season with the whole family, you should consider this magical train ride in The Black Hills of South Dakota. Hop aboard the 1880 Train Holiday Express, enjoy sweet Christmas treats, and meet Santa Claus at the North Pole.
(Please consider: Tickets for this popular train ride do sell out quickly, and some dates may be already booked. Visit the railroad’s website for availability.)
We originally wrote our article in 2016, but we've updated it with all the latest details for 2018!
In 2018, experience the magic of the 1880 Train Holiday Express November 23rd-24th, December 1st and 2nd, December 8th and 9th, December 15th and 16th, and December 22nd and 23rd. The Christmas journey begins at Hill City.
This enchanting Christmas train ride is one your family won’t soon forget. Tickets do sell out fast, so be sure to visit their website to secure your spot. The Holiday Express train station is located at 222 Railroad Ave. Hill City, South Dakota 57745.
Have you ever taken the 1880 Train Holiday Express? We’d love to hear about your experience!
If you love the outdoors, then you’re truly lucky to live in South Dakota, because here in the Mount Rushmore State, there’s always plenty of opportunity for adventure and exploration! Get some fresh air, lace up your tennis shoes, and check out these 11 spots if you're looking for things to do in South Dakota that involve the great outdoors. As always, they’re in no particular order and they vary in terms of the strenuous effort required.
Formerly known as Harney Peak, Black Elk Peak is the highest natural point in South Dakota. Accessible through the Sylvan Lake Day use area, the trail begins as a light stroll through the forest and becomes more vigorous once you get closer to the summit. When you make it to the top, you can enjoy a truly jaw-dropping view of The Black Hills National Forest, a sight everyone definitely needs to experience at least once.
This gigantic botanical garden in Brookings features over 25 acres of formal display gardens and hundreds of different flowers, trees, shrubs, and grasses. Spend a day exploring the lovely scenery, and you’ll feel as though you’re in paradise.
This moderate trail will take you through most of Sioux Falls, following along the Big Sioux River for 19 miles. Eventually, you will find your way to the gorgeous Falls Park where you can enjoy a spectacular view from the observation tower. If you're looking for things to do near Sioux Falls, this trail loop is a great idea.
This easily accessible overlook will provide you with truly impressive views of the amazing geologic formations. Be sure you have your camera in tow because you’ll feel as if you’re not even on your home planet, let alone your home state. Visiting the Badlands is one of the best things to do outdoors in South Dakota.
View the bison, elk, and other various types of wildlife as they freely roam the prairie. This national park is also home to Wind Cave, not only one of the longest caves in the world, but also one of the most complex.
Take a look at this video of Wind Cave National Park by @MoreThanJustParks:
The Mickelson trail is approximately 109 miles in length winding all the way from Edgemont to Deadwood. It’s just slightly over 700’ in gradual elevation, so you can be assured that it’s not too strenuous. This well-maintained trail will take you through some of the most beautiful areas of the hills, with plenty of restaurants and places to stay along the way!
You absolutely can’t miss Spearfish Canyon. Gorgeous any time of the year (especially during autumn) this area is an absolute state gem. Some of the highlights in the area include Bridal Veil Falls Roughlock Falls, Devil’s Bathtub and so much more.
This hidden gem of South Dakota is so stunning that it should be on everyone’s must-see list. From hiking trails to wonderful views of the Big Sioux, it’s a place that you will forever remember.
Take a look at this video of Good Earth State Park by @samscorner3458:
The naturally stunning scenery that surrounds Bear Butte will leave you breathless. Take the 3.6-mile hike to the top, climb up the wooden stairs that lead to the deck, and stand in awe of the beauty below you.
You’ll be able to choose between three different campsites at this popular recreational area. From canoeing, waterskiing, fishing, swimming, and hiking, you’ll have plenty of options and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
What’s your favorite place on the list? What are some of your favorite things to do in South Dakota that involve the great outdoors? As always, let us know your thoughts in the comment section!
Going hiking anytime soon? Be sure to check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List, and don't forget to download the AllTrails+ app for trail information wherever you go.
South Dakota is a special place - and it certainly doesn't get the credit it truly deserves. If you're a fan of being outside, with all the outdoor adventures and activities in South Dakota, ours is the perfect state for you. You'd be amazed at just how many things there are to do, see, and experience in this amazing place, and here's some great news: I've gone ahead and created a handy-dandy itinerary for the ultimate weekend in South Dakota. Looking for adventure? I've jam-packed it into this awesome (but still relaxing) adventure. Let's go!
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From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
With just two and a half hours of total driving time, you'll be able to spend more time exploring and less time driving. Score! Follow along on Google Maps.
Nestled within Spearfish Canyon is the breathtaking Roughlock Falls.You could spend hours hiking, exploring, and enjoying all the wonders that the canyon contains. It's astronomically beautiful, and well worth a few hours' time of exploration. You'll find the Roughlock Falls trailhead just beyond Spearfish Canyon Lodge, along FSR 222. Of the three waterfalls within the canyon, Roughlock is the most beloved.
Miller Creek Pub and Patio is famous for the beautiful views from its stunning patio. Found on the grounds of Elkhorn Ridge Resort, this restaurant is fine dining plus all the luxuries of an amazing natural view.
Enjoy steaks, seafood, chicken, chops, and some of the finest appetizers. Do keep in mind that the restaurant is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly! The overall vibe is relaxed and casual - perfect for relaxing after a few hours of meandering around a canyon!
This incredible hiking trail in South Dakota might just be one of the state's very best. It's challenging, but I promise it's worth the effort. Along the way, you'll encounter some of the most fascinating geological formations in the entire state...
...as well as some truly breathtaking views. You'll definitely want to make sure you're wearing good, sturdy hiking shoes, and bring plenty of water. South Dakota might be fairly northern, but it can still get pretty warm in the spring, summer, and even early autumn.
By now, there's no way you're not exhausted. Me, too. Well, off to the next stop: We're staying the night at this incredible log cabin.It's huge, secluded, quiet, and perfect for quite literally getting away from just about everything. "Away from it all," in this case, really is away from most things.
You won't believe the amazing views from every vantage point in the cabin. To book your stay (and I STRONGLY suggest you book WELL in advance), be sure to check out the cabin’s VRBO listing
I've only got one thing planned for day two, and that's an idyllic day spent by the beach. The beach at Legion Lake, specifically.
So, do you have any upcoming plans? Perhaps you'll want to embark upon this amazing adventure. Let me know what you think in the comments - and suggest some other outdoor adventures and activities in South Dakota, too!
