South Dakota
Looking for the best photography in South Dakota? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around South Dakota. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.
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Top Photography Spots in and near South Dakota
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Lead, South Dakota
76 Trail
1.24 mi / 499 ft gainThe '76 Trail is only 3/4 of a mile long but elevates 1,000 feet, making this hike difficult for many. Plan to take a couple breaks but admire the gorgeous surroundings! The hike is not a leisurely one but the views at the top are well worth the effort.Read more -
Keystone, South Dakota
Mt. Rushmore Profile View
Cool little pull off area to get a shot of Washington’s face from the side between the mountains. There is a pull off on both sides of the road and a popular spot to stop and photograph this unique perspective of Mt. Rushmore. For the loop trail to see more of the sites of Mt. Rushmore, check o...Read more -
Custer, South Dakota
Fly Fish French Creek
0.5 mi / 15 ft gainThe creek has two main sections, there is Upper French Creek and Lower French creek, the upper/lower refer to the section of creek above or below Stockade Lake. The better fishing is below Stockade Lake. There you can find numerous sections of the creek that are on public land and easily accessib...Read more -
Rapid City, South Dakota
Explore the Skyline Wilderness Area
3 mi / 0 ft gainDividing Rapid City's East and West sides, the Skyline Wilderness Area is a 150-acre park that features numerous walking, biking and hiking trails. This area can also be enjoyed as a beautiful drive that offers one of the best views of Rapid City. The road stretches about two miles long and giv...Read more -
Dell Rapids, South Dakota
Walk the Sioux River Red Rock Trail
2.6 mi / 49 ft gainThe 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...Read more -
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Hike Great Bear Valley Trail
1 mi / 68 ft gainGreat 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 thi...Read more -
Madison, South Dakota
Hike Abbott Trail
2.7 mi / 95 ft gainAbbott 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 gaze...Read more -
Vermillion, South Dakota
Hike the Clay County Park Nature Trail
2.1 mi / 68 ft gainClay County Park Nature Trail is located in Vermillion, South Dakota and includes a 2.1 mile loop hike that runs along the river. At the trailhead, you will find a lookout and picnic area, along with public bathrooms. The trail itself winds through prairie grasses and forests, and at times goes r...Read more -
Canistota, South Dakota
Hike Otter Stream Trail
1.2 mi / 45 ft gainOtter Stream Trail is located in Lake Vermillion State Recreation Area. It has a lake, campground, and hiking trails. Be advised that there is an entrance fee. This trail wraps around beautiful grasslands and into shaded forests. The trail sits across the street from Lake Vermillion, and scenic v...Read more -
Harrisburg, South Dakota
Paddle at Lake Alvin
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 itsel...Read more -
Mitchell, South Dakota
Mountain Bike Kiwanis Trail on Lake Mitchell
1.8 mi / 95 ft gainKiwanis Trail runs along the south side of Lake Mitchell in South Dakota. Along with a hiking trail, there is also a trail specifically for mountain biking. The hiking trail is about two miles long and is a pretty easy hike for all ages. Along the hike, you'll wind through forests, plains, and ri...Read more -
Vermillion, South Dakota
Hike to Spirit Mound
1.4 mi / 114 ft gainSpirit Mound Historic Prairie is located outside Vermillion, South Dakota and consists of a 1.4 mile hike up to the top of a prairie mound. Lewis and Clark made the trek years ago, making it a historical marker to visit and see. Beautiful wildflowers line the trail, mixed in with acres of prairie...Read more
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Go Great Places in South Dakota
In the Mount Rushmore state, travels to South Dakota are full of one-of-a-kind adventure with wide-open spaces as endless as the horizons. Between legendary landscapes and scenic drives, you can always find space that shifts life into park. When you’re ready, go great places.
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