The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Sioux Falls
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Family friendly hiking trails around Sioux Falls are shaped by the Big Sioux River, which flows through the city, and distinctive pink quartzite rock formations. The region features a mix of open prairie, wooded areas, and river-adjacent parks, offering varied natural settings. Glacial deposits have created hills and valleys, providing diverse terrain for outdoor exploration. This landscape provides accessible paths and more challenging routes through its unique geological and ecological features.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Sioux Falls
- The…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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hikers
1.12km
00:18
10m
10m
Easy 0.7-mile loop in Sioux Falls' Falls Park, featuring cascading waterfalls over pink quartzite and city views.
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hikers
2.77km
00:42
0m
0m
Sertoma Park loop is an easy 1.7-mile hike through diverse riparian habitats, featuring an oxbow lake and abundant wildlife.
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1
hikers
2.54km
00:40
20m
20m
Discover the gentle beauty of the North and South Loop Trail, an easy hike that takes you through Arrowhead Park. You can expect peaceful views as the path meanders past…
15.5km
03:55
30m
30m
Hike the 9.6-mile Skunk Creek Trail in Sioux Falls, a moderate route offering pleasant parks, water views, and a pedestrian bridge.
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hikers
2.79km
00:44
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Skunk Creek spur of the Big Sioux River Greenway adds 4.5 miles of scenic trail winding back and forth along Skunk Creek to a lake in Family Park.
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Beautiful pedestrian bridge over the Big Sioux River. The bridge is an old railway bridge that was converted as part of the Sioux Falls Bike Trail.
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The Arc of Dreams is a monumental stainless-steel sculpture spanning the Big Sioux River between 6th and 8th streets. It was created by South Dakota Artist Laureate Dale Claude Lamphere and is nearly the length of a football field. At the center of the Arc of Dreams is a 15-foot gap, 80 feet above the river, representing the leap of faith dreamers take to see their dreams come true. The Arc of Dreams is a tribute to the dreamers of the past and present and an inspiration to the dreamers of the future. The iconic sculpture is the signature piece of art for the city of Sioux Falls, helping to illustrate this unique and thriving modern city on the prairie. A blade of prairie grass inspired the overall sweep of the sculpture. The structure reflects the time-tested growth pattern that allows grass to move with the wind and not fail. These grass-like arcs are then wrapped in a double helix: the carrier of all the genetic ancestry now uniquely expressed in each of us.
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From this viewpoint on the eastern shore of the Big Sioux River, you have a nice overlook over the falls.
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From this viewpoint, on the western shore of the Big Sioux River, you are below the falls and therefore get a very different perspective than from the other side.
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From this viewpoint on the eastern shore of the Big Sioux River, you have a nice overlook over the falls.
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Located in the very east of Sioux Falls, Arrowhead Park is a popular recreation area just outside the city. It hosts hiking trails, picnic areas and multiple ponds. The park's name results from an arrowhead shaped granite quarry in the park, that is one of the ponds today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Sioux Falls?
Our guide features 7 family-friendly hiking routes around Sioux Falls, with 6 of them rated as easy and 1 as moderate. This selection offers a good variety for families looking to explore the area.
Are there any easy, short loops suitable for families with young children or strollers?
Yes, several trails are perfect for shorter outings. The Falls Park loop is a very easy 1.1 km walk, offering stunning views of the waterfalls. Another great option is the Sertoma Park loop, which is 2.7 km and also rated easy, providing a pleasant stroll through the park.
Where can we see waterfalls on a family hike in Sioux Falls?
The most iconic place to experience waterfalls is at Falls Park, where the Big Sioux River cascades over pink quartzite formations. The Falls Park loop offers direct views of the Big Sioux River Falls and Falls Park Waterfalls, making it an excellent choice for families.
Are there any longer, moderate trails for families with older children?
For families seeking a bit more adventure, the Skunk Creek Trail offers a moderate 15.5 km experience. This trail provides a longer journey through diverse landscapes, suitable for those ready for a more extended hike.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes around Sioux Falls?
The trails around Sioux Falls offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll find paved paths along the Big Sioux River, wooded areas, open prairie, and even some gentle hills and valleys, particularly in parks like Great Bear Recreation Park. The distinctive pink quartzite formations are also a unique feature in areas like Falls Park and Palisades State Park.
Are there any trails that offer scenic viewpoints or interesting landmarks?
Absolutely! The Viewpoint (east side) – Falls Park Waterfalls loop provides fantastic scenic overlooks of the falls. You can also spot landmarks like The Arc of Dreams near the river. For a broader perspective, Newton Hills State Park features a lookout tower with unique views of the surrounding forest.
Are the family-friendly trails in Sioux Falls dog-friendly?
Many parks and trails in Sioux Falls are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash on most city and state park trails. Always ensure you clean up after your pet.
What are some less crowded options for family hikes?
While Falls Park is popular, exploring trails slightly outside the immediate city center or visiting during off-peak hours can offer a quieter experience. Parks like Newton Hills State Park or Good Earth State Park at Blood Run, with their extensive trail systems, often provide more solitude amidst woodlands and prairie.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails in Sioux Falls?
The komoot community appreciates the accessibility and natural beauty of the trails. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning views of the Big Sioux River and its falls, and the variety of landscapes, from urban greenways to more secluded wooded areas, making them ideal for family outings.
Are there any historical or cultural sites accessible via family hikes?
Yes, Good Earth State Park at Blood Run, located southeast of Sioux Falls, offers over 7 miles of trails and preserves significant sites of the Oneota Native American culture, providing a unique blend of nature and history for families to explore.
Are there good parking options available at the trailheads?
Most major parks and trailheads in and around Sioux Falls, including Falls Park, Sertoma Park, and state parks like Palisades and Newton Hills, offer designated parking areas. It's generally easy to find convenient parking close to the start of the trails.
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