Uncover the Beauty of South Dakota with Cross Country Skiing
Winter is the perfect time to head out and enjoy the beautiful outdoors as long as you have the right equipment. One way to do this is with cross country skiing. Set your sights on these top places for cross country skiing in South Dakota.
Big Hill Trail, Spearfish, SD
The Big Hill Trail is in the gorgeous Black Hills National Forest. This unique trail is specifically designed for cross country skiing, so you can expect an expertly groomed trail along with an outstanding view along the way.
Beaver Creek Nature Area, Valley Springs, SD
Beaver Creek Nature Area is a beautiful nature preserve that protects some of South Dakota’s majestic plant life and biodiversity. During the winter, it’s a popular destination for cross country skiers of all experience levels.
Terry Peak Ski Area, Lead, SD
Terry Peak Ski Area is a renowned skiing site for locals as well as visitors from across the country. It offers everything a skier needs, including equipment rentals and ski lessons.
Lake Herman State Park, Madison, SD
Lake Herman is an incredible lake of 1300+ acres that was formed by melting glacier ice. The lake and the park surrounding it has become a premier site for countless outdoor sports, and when it’s snow-covered, that includes cross country skiing.
Great Bear Ski Valley, Sioux Falls, SD
You might as well call Great Bear Ski Valley a winter wonderland because it’s a hub for all kinds of winter fun. With a network of cross country trails as well as ski slopes, tubing hills, a terrain park, and more, Great Bear Ski Valley has it all.
Deerfield Lake Trail, Rapid City, SD
For those in Rapid City, cross country skiing doesn’t have to come with a long trip out into the wilderness. Right in your backyard is Deerfield Lake Trail, a ten-mile loop that encircles Deerfield Lake. Cross-country skiing is available at the Gold Run Trailhead and the North Shore Trailhead.
Eagle Cliff Trails, South Lawrence, SD
The Eagle Cliff Trails are stunning trails in South Lawrence that have become premier destinations for cross country skiing. Grab your skis and check out these well-maintained trails.
Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve, McCook Lake, SD
The Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve is known as a historical landmark throughout South Dakota. In reality, it’s also an excellent place for cross country skiing, even offering equipment rental on-site.
Big Sioux Recreation Area, Brandon, SD
The Big Sioux Recreation Area has become a beloved place where locals and visitors come together to enjoy the best that South Dakota’s landscape has to offer. Check it out the next time you’re in the mood for some cross country skiing and fresh air.
Bramble Park, Watertown, SD
In charming Watertown, Bramble Park is a popular park during any time of the year. For cross country skiers, the top attraction is its 2.5-mile trail which is well-suited to cross country skis.
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