Dakota Nature Park Trail

Abbott Trail is located at Lake Herman State Park in South Dakota. The park itself is beautiful and offers many things to do, including canoe rentals, camping, parks, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Abbott Trail is 2.7 mile hike that works for all skill levels. At the trail head, there is a gazebo with information and pamphlets for hikers, along with a nice shaded spot to sit. There are birdho...

Near the border of South Dakota in Minnesota, 30 minutes north of I-90 on County Route 23 or State Route 75 is the historic town of Pipestone. From the center of town heading north on Hiawatha Avenue is the entrance into Pipestone National Monument. Entrance into the monument is free, but may be subject to change (nps.gov). From the parking lot is the 3/4 mile long loop that gently walks throu...

The Sioux River Red Rock Trail is located in Dell Rapids, South Dakota. It is a 2.6 mile paved out and back trail that runs along the Sioux River. This trail offers great views of the river, red rock formations, and even a waterfall. It is great for all skill levels, and dogs are allowed on leash.  The trail has recently been updated with a nice bridge that crosses the river. The trail is relat...

Devils Gulch Park is located in Garretson, South Dakota, about a half hour from Sioux Falls. It’s free to visit, and is a great spot to hike or picnic. There are trails along the river and cool bridges to walk across.  Along with trails, there’s a covered picnic area right when you pull in. A neat part of the park is its history with Jesse James. It’s told that Jesse James jumped across the rav...

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...

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...