Bur Oak, Riparian, Grand Ravine, and River Lookout Loop Trail

Lake Alvin is a beautiful lake outside Sioux Falls that is surrounded by pines and prairies. Its proximity outside the city means it is very quiet and very calm. The water is perfect for kayaking or canoeing, and there are multiple trails leading to shore to carry them in easily.   The park itself is about 59 acres and is best known for its water recreation. The park has a dock that is great fo...

Leaders Park Trail is located in Leaders Park in Sioux Falls. Park on the street at the "Leaders Park" sign and head to the right, where you will find the start of the mountain biking trail. The trail consist of a 1.6 mile loop full of slopes, inclines, prairie grasses, and forests. The park is conveniently located in Sioux Falls and is free to use.  There are signs posted throughout that warn ...

Great Bear Ski Valley is a ski area in Sioux Falls that also has wooded trails that run throughout the property. The trails are free to hike and offer a secluded, private place to get outside and away from the city.  In the winter, the trails can be used to cross country ski as well. We found this place this summer and consider it a gem of Sioux Falls. There is no traffic noise, hardly any othe...

Falls Park in Sioux Falls is one of the most popular attractions in the area, and for good reason. It is a beautiful park in the heart of the city, spanning 123 acres and consisting of waterfalls, trails, a lookout, and a café.  Paved sidewalk trails run all around the falls and offer great lookout spots to sit by the falls or take some pictures. Be sure to visit in the winter when they're froz...

The hike is a very simple hike, you can make it longer or shorter as you would like. There is one spot were the trail gets a little steep and is rutted, you go from the rivers edge, to up on top of the cliffs and bluffs area.  Fall is a great time to go and visit Palisades State Park, with the Fall foliage and the trees changing!  To enter Palisades State Park you will need a pass, either a day...

Palisade State Park offers lots of activities, including camping, hiking, kayaking, and even swimming in the river. Steep cliffs made from pink quartzite give way to Split Rock Creek, a river perfect for kayaking. Up on a cliff, there is a campground with fire pits and picnic tables at each site. Cabins are also available to rent down the road from the campground. The sites are relatively far a...