The Ultimate South Dakota Waterfalls Road Trip Is Right Here – and You’ll Want to Do It

Everyone knows South Dakota for its iconic landmarks and important history, but few realize that we also have an ample amount of waterfalls. If this is you (or if you just really love waterfalls and want to see as many as you can in one stretch), it's time to gas up the car, grab your friends, and take this South Dakota waterfall road trip. On this trip, you’ll cruise through dense forests, across wide open stretches of countryside, and through small towns for one of the most scenic drives in the state.

The trip will cover approximately 130 miles, and you’ll have about two and a half hours of drive time. Of course, you’ll need to take into consideration extra time to see each waterfall along the way. We think you can complete this drive in a day and return in time for dinner. That said, you can also make this trip your own by adding more stops on this interactive map.

1. Roughlock Falls, Lead

Roughlock Falls is located in the Spearfish Canyon Nature Area near Lead and about 15 miles from Spearfish. The gushing waterfall cascades over a series of moss-covered limestone rocks and flows through Spearfish Canyon. The waterfall is surrounded by spruce, pine, and aspen forests, and it feels like you're in a jungle far outside the Black Hills in South Dakota. While the cascading water is special on its own, the Falls also boast newer trails with handicap access, making it a must-visit for every member of your family.

2. Spearfish Falls, Spearfish

Your next stop is just a stone's throw away, and one of the most dramatic waterfalls in South Dakota. Spearfish Falls stands 47 feet high and flows over a limestone cliff before plunging into Spearfish Creek. The trail to this easy-access waterfall in South Dakota is located just behind the iconic Latchstring Restaurant, and there is an overlook available there for anyone who cannot hike the one-mile Spearfish Falls Trail. The bonus? You can grab a bite to eat after you've seen this towering waterfall... you will not be disappointed!

3. Bridal Veil Falls, Spearfish

Located about 15 minutes from Spearfish, this 60-foot-tall waterfall gently cascades over a limestone backdrop, making it look like a bride's veil, thus giving it its name. In addition to being able to walk up to Bridal Veil Falls, the falls can be seen from a viewing platform off US Highway 14A. This waterfall is ideal for families with younger kids, wheelchair users, or road trippers, since there is no hiking involved. Visit during the spring after the snow melts for the best views of this tiered waterfall.

4. Cascade Falls near Hot Springs

Although not as dramatic as the other waterfalls on our list, Cascade Falls is one of my favorites. Located in the JH Keith Cascade Falls Picnic Area, the spring-fed waterfall is one of a few of its kind in South Dakota, and the water remains around 67 degrees year-round. Not only that, but these hidden falls open up to a perfect swimming hole, making it feel like a natural waterpark in South Dakota. Plus, you can enjoy picturesque picnic spots at the top and bottom of the recreation area, making it a great destination to spend the day. There are lots of stairs here, so come ready to work for the view and the swim!

Enjoying some of the best waterfalls in our state is reason enough to hit the road today (or to plan a summer road trip in South Dakota). The best part is you can enjoy all of these waterfalls in one quick weekend getaway or even a day, if you start your trip early! When you need more inspiration for places to visit, you can find local spots to eat, play, and sleep on the Travel South Dakota webpage.