The best walks and hikes around Sioux Falls
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Hikes around Sioux Falls explore a landscape shaped by the Big Sioux River and its namesake waterfalls. The region's terrain is primarily composed of river-adjacent parks, open prairies, and some woodlands. Most routes are relatively flat, following paved or unpaved paths through urban green spaces and nature preserves.
Best hiking trails around Sioux Falls
- The most popular hiking route is Falls Park loop — Sioux Falls, a 0.7 mile (1.1 km) trail that takes about 18 minutes to complete. This short walk provides views of the waterfalls cascading over pink quartzite rock formations.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Skunk Creek Spur loop — Sioux Falls, a moderate 9.6 mile (15.5 km) path. This longer route follows the Skunk Creek Spur of the city's extensive trail system.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Tuthill Park loop — Sioux Falls, a 2.2 mile (3.5 km) trail leading through a wooded city park, often completed in about 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Sioux Falls is defined by paved greenway paths along the Big Sioux River, prairie landscapes, and wooded park trails. The network offers mostly easy, accessible options suitable for all ability levels.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 40 hikers have used komoot to explore the Sioux Falls hiking trails.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
2.57km
00:41
30m
30m
The Leaders Park Trails invite you to an easy hiking experience, covering 1.6 miles (2.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 101 feet (31 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 41 minutes, winding through varied landscapes. As you hike, you will encounter natural surfaces that twist through both wooded areas and open fields, offering a refreshing escape. Keep an eye out for interesting rock features and roots along the way, adding character to your walk.
Before you head out, be aware that the trails are sometimes closed during wet conditions to protect them from damage. Parking is generally available at Leaders Park, making access straightforward for your visit. You will be sharing the path with mountain bikers, so stay alert and consider leaving your headphones at home for safety. This helps ensure a pleasant and safe experience for everyone on the route.
This trail is particularly known for its scenic beauty during the fall, when colorful foliage transforms the landscape. You might also spot wildlife, especially near the bridges that cross a creek within the park. The route provides a great opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the changing seasons, making it a notable option for a quick outdoor adventure in the area.
3.96km
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Begin your hike on the Sioux Falls Bike Trail, an easy 2.5 miles (4.0 km) route that offers a pleasant escape into nature. You will follow a paved path, enjoying consistent views of the Big Sioux River as it winds through both open parkland and wooded areas. The trail provides a delightful mix of urban green spaces and natural beauty. A key highlight is Falls Park, where you can see the Big Sioux River cascading over stunning limestone and red quartzite formations. This gentle hike involves a minimal elevation gain of just 10 feet (3 metres) and takes approximately 59 minutes to complete. It is a perfect choice for a quick outdoor adventure.
Planning your visit to the Sioux Falls Bike Trail is straightforward, as the route is well-maintained and accessible throughout the year, even during winter months. You will find parking generally available at the numerous city parks that connect to this extensive loop system. The trail is designed for multi-use, so you can expect to share the path with walkers, runners, and cyclists. Consider starting your journey from one of the many access points along the Big Sioux River for convenient entry.
The Sioux Falls Bike Trail stands out for its unique blend of urban convenience and natural spectacle, making it a notable option among local hiking trails. It offers a chance to experience the geological wonder of Falls Park, a significant landmark in the region. This trail is an excellent example of how a city can integrate natural beauty into its recreational offerings, providing a refreshing outdoor experience close to home.
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6.63km
01:51
130m
120m
Hike the Skyline, Cactus Hills and Valley Trail Loop in Great Bear Recreation Park, an easy 4.1-mile route with 416 feet of elevation gain.
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1.12km
00:18
10m
10m
Easy 0.7-mile loop in Sioux Falls' Falls Park, featuring cascading waterfalls over pink quartzite and city views.
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3.49km
00:56
40m
40m
Embark on an easy hike along the Tuthill Park loop, a peaceful escape offering diverse scenery right within the city. This route winds gently through wooded areas, following a creek, and showcases formal gardens bursting with vibrant seasonal flowers. You will also discover scenic overlooks of the Big Sioux River bluff, providing unexpected views. Covering 2.2 miles (3.5 km) with a modest elevation gain of 136 feet (41 metres), this loop takes approximately 56 minutes to complete, making it a perfect short outdoor adventure.
Tuthill Park is accessible year-round, offering different experiences depending on the season; winter visitors can even enjoy cross-country skiing and sledding. You will generally find available parking, making your visit convenient. The park also provides amenities like picnic shelters and playgrounds, ideal for a family outing. This trail system seamlessly connects to the broader Sioux Falls Bike Trail network, offering options for extended exploration if you wish to combine activities.
This trail stands out as one of the engaging Tuthill Park Sioux Falls trails, providing a quick and accessible outdoor experience. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it hard to believe you are still within the city limits. The diverse scenery, from wooded creek banks to formal gardens, ensures a varied and pleasant journey for all hikers.
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Popular around Sioux Falls
Tips from the Community
The park has a network of singletrack trails for hiking and mountain biking, which wind through the woods by the disc golf course. There is a little pavilion and water bottle refill station by the parking lot.
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From this viewpoint on the eastern shore of the Big Sioux River, you have a nice overlook over the falls.
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From this viewpoint, on the western shore of the Big Sioux River, you are below the falls and therefore get a very different perspective than from the other side.
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From this viewpoint on the eastern shore of the Big Sioux River, you have a nice overlook over the falls.
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The Falls Park is a big movie theater and definitely worth the long journey. It is beautifully located in the heart of the city, sprawling and within easy walking distance. In any case, do not miss the lookout tower at the Visitor Center ... You should plan at least 1h time. It is great in the evening around 21:30 (we were here in July) to come back again, then the cases are still great illuminated.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails in Sioux Falls?
Yes, many parks and trails in the Sioux Falls area are dog-friendly, but it's important to keep your dog on a leash and follow park-specific rules. The trails at Good Earth State Park and Newton Hills State Park are popular choices for hiking with canine companions. Always check the local regulations before you go.
Where can I find hikes with waterfalls near Sioux Falls?
The most iconic waterfall is in the heart of the city at Falls Park. For a short and accessible walk with great views of the falls cascading over pink quartzite, the Falls Park loop is an excellent option.
What are some good, easy hikes for beginners or families?
The area excels in providing easy, family-friendly trails. A great choice is the Sertoma Park loop, which is a flat and pleasant walk. Another highly-regarded spot for families is Newton Hills State Park, known for its playgrounds and gentle nature trails.
Are there paved walking trails in the Sioux Falls area?
Yes, Sioux Falls has an extensive network of paved trails. The Big Sioux River Recreation Trail and Greenway is a paved path that stretches over 34 miles, connecting many city parks. For a longer, paved outing, consider the Skunk Creek Spur loop, which follows a section of this system.
Can I go hiking in Sioux Falls during the winter?
Winter hiking is definitely possible, especially on the paved greenway trails which may be cleared of snow. Trails in parks like Good Earth State Park can be beautiful in the snow, but be prepared for icy or snow-packed conditions. It's essential to wear appropriate footwear with good traction and dress in warm layers.
Which trails offer the best scenic views or overlooks?
For dramatic scenery, Palisades State Park is a top destination, offering views of Sioux Quartzite cliffs along Split Rock Creek. For a rewarding view over the city, the trails at Great Bear Recreation Park involve some climbing but provide sweeping panoramic vistas.
What are some popular places to hike around Sioux Falls?
Several parks in the region are highly regarded by local hikers.
Good Earth State Park at Blood Run is a major draw, celebrated for its rich history and trails through prairie and woodlands along the Big Sioux River.
Palisades State Park is another favorite, famous for its unique pink quartzite rock formations and scenic trails by the creek.
For a tranquil experience in a dense forest, many people head to Newton Hills State Park.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The parks around Sioux Falls are home to a variety of wildlife. On the trails, you have a chance to see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, squirrels, and numerous bird species. The prairie sections are great for spotting native birds, while wooded areas like those in Newton Hills State Park provide habitat for woodland creatures.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, there are several enjoyable loop trails. For a walk through a wooded city park, the Tuthill Park loop is a great option. If you're looking for something shorter and flatter, the Arowhead Park loop is another excellent circular walk.
What should I pack for a day hike in the Sioux Falls area?
For most hikes around Sioux Falls, comfortable walking shoes are sufficient. Always bring water, especially for prairie hikes with little shade. It's also wise to pack sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, a small first-aid kit, and a fully charged phone. If you're heading to a state park, remember to check if an entrance fee is required.
How do the trails at Good Earth State Park and Palisades State Park compare?
Both parks offer fantastic but different experiences. Good Earth State Park features wider, rolling trails through open prairies and woodlands with a focus on cultural history. Palisades State Park offers more rugged trails with some rocky sections and dramatic scenery, centered around the quartzite cliffs and Split Rock Creek.
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