Winter in Southeast South Dakota: wide-open landscapes that sparkle in the sun, and locals who know just how to make the cold months feel cozy.
Some seek quiet moments of peace and connection. Others look for full-on outdoor excitement. And everyone wants to experience SoDak’s best local flavors. Winter here invites you to embrace the season in your own way.
1. Explore Scenic Winter Trails Across Southeast South Dakota
If you love winter’s crisp air and soft stillness, Southeast South Dakota’s trails are the perfect place to find it. Whether you prefer hiking boots, snowshoes, or cross-country skis, the region’s state parks and recreation areas offer miles of peaceful winter pathways.
Palisades State Park transforms into a dramatic winter landscape, with its pink Sioux quartzite cliffs standing out against frosted creek banks. Snowfall adds a quiet, ethereal quality to the trails, making this a favorite spot for winter photographers and hikers who want an up-close look at one of the region’s most striking natural features.
Find forested trails that offer cozy, sheltered routes where you’ll feel miles away from busy routines at Lake Herman and Newton Hills State Parks. Depending on snowfall, many visitors trade hiking boots for skis or snowshoes and spend the day exploring the rolling terrain. The quiet of the forest in winter — broken only by the crunch of snow — is a kind of calm you won’t forget. Bring your binoculars for wildlife viewing!
For sweeping views and open skies, Lewis and Clark Recreation Area offers shoreline trails that showcase the beauty of the Missouri River in winter. The water takes on a steely-blue stillness, and the landscape becomes a perfect blend of serenity and stark, seasonal beauty.
And for an accessible, family-friendly winter outing, Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve is a fantastic choice. With over 10 miles of easy trails winding through prairie, forest, and along the Missouri River, it’s an inviting place to walk, snowshoe, ski, or simply enjoy the quiet rhythm of a winter afternoon.
No matter where you go, the winter trails of Southeast South Dakota offer one thing above all else: space to breathe deeply, move your body, and soak in the beauty of the season.
2. Enjoy A Variety of Outdoor Recreation
If you prefer your winter days with a little more movement, color, and excitement, Southeast South Dakota has plenty of ways to get your heart pumping.
Ice skating is a classic winter favorite, and several Sioux Falls city parks turn into charming outdoor rinks once temperatures drop. The newest addition — the skating ribbon at Jacobson Plaza — has quickly become a seasonal standout. This winding, beautifully designed ribbon invites skaters to glide under twinkling lights, surrounded by outdoor fireplaces and skyline views. Bonus: it’s walking distance from the epic Falls Park and their Winter Wonderland display of holiday lights.
For downhill thrills, Great Bear Ski Valley delivers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing just minutes from Downtown Sioux Falls. It’s one of the region’s most popular winter attractions for good reason: great snowmaking, a variety of runs, and a tubing hill that keeps kids (and adults) laughing all afternoon. Whether you’re a first-timer, a casual cruiser, or a dedicated weekend skier, Great Bear adds a dose of adventure to the season.
Winter also brings some of the region’s best wildlife viewing. Along the Missouri River, bald eagles gather in impressive numbers, especially during January and February. Watching them soar above the bluffs or perch along the riverbank is a moving — and surprisingly accessible — winter activity. Bring
If you’re looking for more hands-on winter fun, the region’s lakes offer excellent opportunities for ice fishing, from peaceful afternoons on smaller local lakes to more active fishing communities gathered on places like Lake Madison or Lake Yankton. Hunting enthusiasts will also find rewarding winter seasons here, with opportunities for waterfowl and upland game like pheasant — a South Dakota signature experience.
Winter in Southeast South Dakota isn’t something to endure — it’s something to dive into. With so many ways to explore the outdoors, there's always a new winter adventure waiting.
3. Warm Up With the Midwest’s Best Comfort Foods
After a day on the trails or out in the elements, nothing hits quite like stepping into a warm, welcoming space with a hot meal waiting. Luckily, Southeast South Dakota is full of restaurants, cafés, breweries, bars, and eateries that reflect the heart of Midwest hospitality.
Of course there are some must-have fan favorites of the region. While you’re here, you must try our state nosh, chislic, which can be found at Blue Rock Bar & Grill, Meridian Corner, and Tailgators, to name a few. Charlie’s Pizza, South Dakota’s ORIGINAL pizza house, serves up an award-winning Festus pie that both visitors and locals swoon over. Dine with a view at Falls Overlook Cafe and Bradley’s Pub & Grille.
Breweries throughout the region release seasonal taps during the colder months — dark stouts, winter ales, and small-batch creations that pair perfectly with good conversation. Many also have an amazing lineup of unique eats as well. Head to Jefferson Beer Supply for unique bratwursts. Ever had bratchos? Find them at WoodGrain Brewing Co. And don’t miss out on a juicy Midwest steak, featured at Ruthie’s Steakhouse (Grand Falls Casino & Resort) and Woodbury’s Steakhouse (The Warrior Hotel), among many other delicious eateries throughout the region.
Whether you’re meeting up with friends, traveling as a family, or taking yourself out for a well-earned treat, Southeast South Dakota’s dining scene offers a comforting, flavorful way to end any winter outing.
Learn More About Southeast South Dakota
Want more inspiration and timely ideas for what to see and do?
Subscribe to Southeast South Dakota Tourism Association’s insider visitor email and get seasonal tips, hidden gems, and travel ideas delivered straight to your inbox.
You can also get itinerary inspiration, regional coupons, a visitor packet, and so much more at www.southeastsouthdakota.com.