Winter Wonderland: Top Activities in South Dakota

While South Dakota is bustling with tourists during the warmer months, it’s far slower during the winter. Whether you’re a local who wants to take advantage of the solitude or a visitor who wants to experience the snowy wonders of South Dakota, you can enjoy any of these top winter activities.

Main Street Square, Rapid City, SD

Take part in a beloved Rapid City tradition by making your way to Main Street Square. Every winter, the square has a gorgeous ice rink where skaters of all ages and experience levels can have a fantastic time.

Terry Peak Ski Area, Lead, SD

To many, Terry Peak Ski Area is the peak of wintertime fun. This thriving ski resort has everything you need to ski or snowboard, including lessons, ski rentals, and of course, epic slopes.

Dakota Nature Park, Brookings, SD

Winter recreation doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. If you want a cost-effective place to enjoy, check out Dakota Nature Park. This beautiful and expansive public recreation area is full of trails that are perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or just enjoying the snowy landscape.

Mystic Hills Hideaway, Deadwood, SD

Snowmobiling is always a popular choice for fun on a South Dakota winter day. If you want to give it a try, Mystic Hills Hideaway is the best place to go for snowmobile rentals from local experts.

The 1880 Train, Hill City, SD

There’s plenty of history in South Dakota, and this winter, you can experience that history on board the area’s famous Holiday Express train. The 1880 Train is the oldest continually operating tour railroad, and it offers cozy train adventures throughout the winter including Holiday Express Spiked tours for those 21 and up.

Evans Plunge Mineral Springs, Hot Springs, SD

Warm up in the cold winter by taking a plunge in the natural warm springs of Evans Plunge Mineral Springs. This natural spring has been a destination since 1890 and it’s still one of the most soothing ways to warm up in the winter.

Odde Ice Arena, Aberdeen, SD

The Odde Ice Arena is the ultimate place to go in the Aberdeen area for some ice skating fun. It offers both indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks so you can choose exactly how “wintery” you want your winter fun to be.

Spearfish Canyon Lodge, Lead, SD

Fat biking, or fat tire biking, is a snow-specific type of biking that can allow you to get out on the trails and explore the winter wonderland of South Dakota. The Spearfish Canyon Lodge has rentals for all the equipment you need.

South Dakota Guided Fishing, Estelline, SD

South Dakota Guided Fishing is a top choice for fishing tours all year round, and in the winter, it’s all about ice fishing. Try your luck on the ice with these Estelline experts.

Key Insights at a Glance

Ice Skating at Main Street Square: Join the local tradition by ice skating at Main Street Square's seasonal rink in Rapid City, welcoming skaters of all skill levels.

Terry Peak Ski Area: Enjoy skiing or snowboarding with available lessons, rentals, and diverse slopes at Terry Peak Ski Area, a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Dakota Nature Park: Explore the trails ideal for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or just a snowy day stroll at this expansive, free public recreation area.

Mystic Hills Hideaway: Rent snowmobiles and explore the snowy landscape with guidance from local experts at Mystic Hills Hideaway.

The 1880 Train: Step back in time with a ride on the historic Holiday Express train, including "Holiday Express Spiked" tours for adults.

Evans Plunge Mineral Springs: Dive into the warm natural springs at Evans Plunge for a unique and soothing experience in the winter chill.

Odde Ice Arena: Lace up your skates for indoor or outdoor ice skating at Odde Ice Arena, catering to all ages and skill levels.

Spearfish Canyon Lodge: Try fat tire biking to navigate the snowy trails and embrace the winter scenery with rental equipment available from Spearfish Canyon Lodge.

South Dakota Guided Fishing: Experience ice fishing with expert guides from South Dakota Guided Fishing, perfect for anglers looking to explore the icy waters.