Near Big Sioux Recreation Area
The Big Sioux River meanders along in the spring.
Near Big Sioux Recreation Area
The view from the top of the Prairie Vista Trail looks east toward the river and the town of Brandon, South Dakota.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Big Sioux Recreation Area

3.0 (2 Ratings)
A short, easy hike with a moderate hill to get the heart beat going!
2.4
mi
Distance
155
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFamily FriendlyRiver/CreekViewsWildlife
Access Issues
This is a SD State Park. Entry fee or Annual Park Pass is required.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.41mi
Distance
155ft
Elevation Gain
155ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
1,444ft
High Point
1,285ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
A good, short hike just to get the blood flowing, or to train for longer hikes. Starting from the "Day Use Area," I followed the UNNAMED trail through the Frisbee Golf area and across the bridge headed towards the Archery Range. The route then follows the Prairie Vista Trail along the river headed north.On the north end of the park, you can follow the trail up the crest of the ridge to the top, or do a "Double Back" about 1/2 way and then climb the steep hill face to the hill crest for a more physically-demanding hike.There is a hilltop bench area that provides an awesome view to the east for sunrise photography. For added distance, you can cut down the back of the hill and follow the Archery Trail back around to the suspension bridge and back to the parking lot at the "Day Use Area".Overall, the smooth trails provide great opportunity for trail running and hiking, and also a good place for some winter snowshoeing.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Greg Sage