Spearfish Canyon in the fall

Fall in South Dakota

Spearfish Canyon

South Dakota is naturally painted in rich colors year-round, but autumn illuminates the landscape with fiery foliage. Discover the magic of fall in The Mount Rushmore State, from refreshing wilderness walks to scenic road trips along meandering byways.

From the serene woodlands along the Big Sioux River to the forested hills of Sica Hollow State Park, splashes of color melt through the green landscape. As fall transforms South Dakota's mountains and prairies, the sumac-laced bluffs along the mighty Missouri River and the brilliant, aspen-dotted Spearfish Canyon are among the many special places enchanting those with eyes open to the highlights. If you and your bird dog eagerly await hunting season each year, South Dakota offers some of the best pheasant hunting in the U.S., with public hunting opportunities across the state.

What kind of weather can you expect for your fall adventure? With average daytime highs just below 60° F (15° C) and lows in the mid-40s (7° C), a light jacket will usually do. However, while most days tend to be sunny and mild, precipitation — even frost and snow — can intermingle with crisp fall weather.

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Seeing SoDak: What It's Like to Experience South Dakota

They came. They saw. They were amazed by the majesty of Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the expansive views of Badlands National Park, the discovery of 1880 Town and the magic of a South Dakota road trip.

Things to Do This Fall

Discover fun fall activities and experiences around the state.

Hiking Spearfish Canyon couple
Black Hills & Badlands Region

The quieter fall months are the perfect time to enjoy legendary overlooks and outdoor experiences at Custer State Park. At Sylvan Lake, hike the Black Elk Peak summit trail for a panoramic view of fall foliage. Cool down with a drive along Needles Highway and snap a photo at the iconic Needles Eye rock formation. Or explore Spearfish Canyon State & National Scenic Byway near the town of Spearfish, where crimson vines and the shimmering golden leaves of aspen and birch trees highlight the gorge’s limestone cliffs and foamy waterfalls. Keep an eye out for local color reports to time your trip.

Sica Hollow State Park
Glacial Lakes & Prairies Region

More leaf-peeping awaits on a hike through Sica Hollow State Park in Sisseton. Follow the Trail of the Spirits for Native lore and pops of color — jewelweed and bittersweet in vibrant shades of orange and red against the overstory of yellow leaves. This region also offers some of the nation's best pheasant hunting. Come October, Aberdeen is a good base for lodges, guided hunts and tips for DIY trips. For indoor exploration, visit the Redlin Art Center in Watertown. American artist Terry Redlin’s paintings depicting autumn scenes will keep you inspired.

Country Apple Orchard
Southeast Region

With more than 180 species of trees and shrubs, Union Grove State Park near Beresford is a picturesque setting for fall camping. But with much of the region falling under a major flyway, the birdwatching can be just as exhilarating as the leaf-peeping. Randall Creek Recreation Area in Pickstown is a good bet for spotting gulls and bald eagles. And almost anywhere in the region, you can count on seasonal celebrations, including harvest festivals at regional wineries and farms.

Pierre
Missouri River Region

Bordering South Dakota’s Glacial Lakes & Prairies region, the Missouri River region shares the distinction of offering excellent hunting, from pheasant to big game. Add to the mix the region’s four glistening lakes — Oahe, Sharpe, Francis Case and Lewis & Clark — and you have the ideal “blast and cast” conditions. Scan local hunting and fishing reports or sign up with area charters to land walleye, salmon and more. For a bite of local history, tour the State Capitol in Pierre or the Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center in Chamberlain.

Leaves change color along the road in Sica Hollow State Park.
Sica Hollow State Park
Mount Rushmore in Fall
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Old wagon
Central South Dakota

Can't-Miss Fall Festivals & Events

The Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park is truly a sight to behold. Look on as local cowboys and cowgirls drive a herd of 1,300 buffalo. Then, head over to the Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival to shop more than 150 local vendors. If you’re a movie lover, you won’t want to miss the South Dakota Film Festival. Held at the Capitol Theatre in Aberdeen, this weekend fest showcases works filmed in the Great Plains region and filmmakers from the area. Celebrate Indigenous culture at the Black Hills Powwow in Rapid City, where thousands of dancers, singers and spectators gather for three days of art shows, storytelling and performances. And get into the spirit of spooky season at Deadweird in Historic Deadwood, a town that’s said to be haunted by a few Wild West legends.

Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup
Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup
South Dakota Film Festival
South Dakota Film Festival
Black Hills Powwow
Black Hills Powwow
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Experience South Dakota's Fall Magic
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