Fall in South Dakota

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.

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.

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.

Guide to South Dakota's Fall Festivals