Greg C
After visit you will forever remember this location. If you happened to be certified I would recommend scuba diving as there is no other place like it underwater. You also get all the benefits of a boat tour!
5.0
Although I did not take the out-and-back to Little Devils Tower, I did do the main loop. This trail would be my recommendation if you plan to do Black Elk Peak. Gives a little more scenery than an out-an-back and was not rigorous. It also brings you very close to the Cathedral Spires which are a sight to see!
5.0
Very serene place to stroll and gets you up close with the rocks formations. In the winter the trail can be very icy.
5.0
If you have the time it is worth the drive just for the tunnels and scenery. However if you’d like to see these formations from a hike rather than a car, I’d suggest the Cathedral Spires trail.
4.0
The abundance of wildlife in this park is unbelievable and it is so close. Definitely a photographers dream. My advice would be to go in the off-season when there are not a line of cars stopped to photograph every bison.
5.0
I think what’s most important to note is that the scenery of the Sage Creek Rim Rd is very different from the Badlands Loop. The Badlands Loop has the typical butte formations you imagine when you think of the park. Meanwhile the Rim Rd is mainly grasslands and rolling hills. This area has a lot of large grazers like bison and pronghorns. The road is dirt and can be very bumpy but it is a lot less trafficked.
5.0
The falls are truly beautiful and definitely worth the quick pit stop if you are in Sioux Falls. My only complaint is it can be very crowded in peak season.
3.0
The trail is a wonderful hike to explore the park and climb a little. I find it a refreshing location to hike with such cool rock formations, in a part of the state that is relatively flat. There are also overlooks, places to picnic and a playground.
4.0
The trail is a nice change of pace from most hikes in eastern SD. It’s a winding, forested trail, with some cool geography. The signage on Jesse James is also worth the read if you like history.
4.0
I’ve visited in the winter and summer and enjoyed each in its own way. Since it is a smaller trail it can get overcrowded in the summer. Even though it was colder in the winter there were still a ton of deer and the frozen waterfall is not to miss.
5.0
I stumbled upon this trail the other day and was very pleased. In a packed park there was almost no one else on this island. The trail is thin but not overgrown, and had its fair share of wildlife - birds, snakes and butterflies.
4.0
Its a great place to go birding or spot turtles! It’s accessible for all with both paved and dirt trails. Capable to do a quick 15 minute walk or spend a few hours here. Fun fact it’s a completely restored site that used to be a landfill! Now it is a beautiful park to fish and walk at.
4.0
I’ve backpacked to Deer Haven and loved the hike. You get a little bit of everything - grasslands, buttes, forests. It can very easily be a day hike. It’s difficult to get lost as you are following the buttes, but can be easy to veer from the game trail especially in the spring when everything is brown. Tons of wildlife when I’ve been there. Be cautious of rattlesnakes but not afraid - in my experiences they will let you know they are there before you get too close
5.0
Camped here in the spring and bison are everywhere! The landscape is very different from the loop rd - here it is mainly grasslands, rolling hills, and large herbivores
4.0
The trail is short, unique, and I love the ladder. It’s a very trafficked section of the park and in my opinion there are more peaceful areas. However it is quick so I would give it a go if you have the time. I would not do if you have a fear of heights, I saw many panicked children trying to climb down the ladder when I was there.
4.0
The walk is a good introduction to the park with nice views, but it doesn’t quite immerse you into the Badlands like some other locations do. However accessible and good for younger children.
3.0
In my opinion it’s the most challenging hike in the park and also the most worth it. Fun climb although it’s very slippery when wet
5.0
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