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Best lake hikes in South Dakota
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Best lake hikes in South Dakota

Want a hike where the views are as smooth as the water's surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature's beauty.

Here are some great hikes to explore in South Dakota.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Centennial Trail - South Dakota

Meade County, South Dakota · star 4.6 (32) · 194.8 km · Est. 11 days

2

Extra Difficult

Hippie Hole

Pennington County, South Dakota · star 4.6 (178) · 998 m · Est. 21 min

3

Easy

Deerfield Lake Loop

Pennington County, South Dakota · star 4.6 (151) · 19.5 km · Est. 4 hrs 35 min

4

Medium

Horsethief 14 Trail

Pennington County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (164) · 8.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 18 min

5

Easy

Dakota Nature Park Loop

Brookings County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (143) · 2.7 km · Est. 33 min

6

Medium

Sylvan Lake and Sunday Gulch Loop Trail

Custer County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (179) · 6.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 41 min

7

Easy

Storm Hill via Flume Trail

Pennington County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (161) · 20.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 44 min

8

Medium

Centennial Trail from Vanocker Canyon Road

Lawrence County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (155) · 17.6 km · Est. 4 hrs 32 min

9

Easy

Wylie Lake and Wylie Park Loop

Brown County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (137) · 4.8 km · Est. 59 min

10

Medium

Little Devil's and Black Elk Loop

Custer County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (200) · 11.3 km · Est. 3 hrs 0 min

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Reviews for lake hikes in South Dakota

Carmen OMO Williams avatar

Centennial Trail - South Dakota

Carmen OMO Williams 路 reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

Great trail, but July 2021 has been a drought...water is scarce. So, prepare ahead...water drops are advisable, especially in the southern part and extreme northern part as well. Fast hikers should experience less problems because of speed.

Issac Olson DO avatar

Hippie Hole

MapleAlpinist85 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Louie Kessler avatar

Deerfield Lake Loop

ThicketHavenranger59 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Sheryl Balistreri avatar

Horsethief 14 Trail

PathfinderStreamfinder48 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Todd Schaden avatar

Dakota Nature Park Loop

PeakviewNaturelover94 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in South Dakota

What is the climate like for hiking in South Dakota?

South Dakota experiences cold, snowy winters, making summer and fall the ideal times for hiking. Summer offers lush green landscapes, but beware of heat and thunderstorms. Fall is cooler, with stunning autumn foliage.
Winter hikes are possible but require proper equipment and awareness of weather conditions. Springtime can be wet and muddy, but also brings beautiful wildflower blooms.
For current weather updates, check the National Weather Service.

Do I need a permit to hike in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, hiking in State Parks requires an entrance license, obtainable online or at park entrances. For backcountry trips in the Black Hills, contact the Black Hills National Forest for permits. Check the https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/blackhills/passes-permits for details.

Is wild camping allowed in South Dakota?

Wild camping in South Dakota's National Forests, like the Black Hills, is typically permitted; however, regulations can vary. Campers are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles. For specifics, refer to the Black Hills National Forest website.

Are there mountain rescue services in South Dakota?

For emergencies while hiking in South Dakota, dial 911. In some areas, Search and Rescue operations are overseen by the County Sheriff's Office. The Custer County Search and Rescue, for instance, assists in the Black Hills area. Be aware of your location for effective assistance. More info at Custer County SAR.

Are there dangerous plants in South Dakota?

South Dakota's flora changes from east to west, with deciduous forests giving way to grasslands and Black Hills' ponderosa pines. Hikers might see wildflowers like pasque or prairie crocus. Be cautious about poison ivy. More info is available at the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in South Dakota?

outh Dakota's fauna includes white-tailed deer, pronghorns, and bison, especially in Custer State Park. Beware of rattlesnakes in the western part. Mosquitoes can be troublesome, so come prepared. Visit South Dakota's Game, Fish & Parks site for more information.

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