South Dakota Winter Activities

South Dakota offers family travelers plenty of cool activities this winter.

In the western region, head to Spearfish for snowmobiling and snowshoeing. There are more than 350 miles of trails in the Black Hills National Forest. At an elevation of 6,000 feet, the trails develop a 5-foot snow pack during the winter, perfect for snowmobiling and snowshoeing. Visit Terry Peak Ski Area near Lead and Deadwood for skiing and snowboarding opportunities. This park offers a variety of trails for skiers of skill levels from beginner to expert.

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Visit Aberdeen in the northeast region of South Dakota. The city offers winter activities for all interests, including sledding at Baird Park, snowmobiling at Dakota Midland trail and buffalo hunting at Royal Flush Hunting Lodge.

Central South Dakota, in the Missouri River region, offers travelers ice fishing opportunities. Lake Sharpe is a 56,000-acre reservoir, home to a variety of fish including crappie, yellow perch and channel catfish. Lake Oahe is home to walleyes and northern pike. Guides are available for novice ice fishers.

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Explore the state parks in South Dakota’s southeast region. Good Earth State Park, a National Historic Landmark, is an important cultural and historical spot with hiking opportunities year-round. Newton Hills State Park features miles of pristine, snow-covered trails during the winter.