Running in South Dakota
South Dakota offers an unexpected running experience with the stunning Black Hills, the vast prairies, and a small but dedicated running community. The Mickelson Trail through the Black Hills is one of the finest rail trails in America.
Climate
Continental with cold winters and warm summers
Terrain
The Black Hills in western SD offer mountain-like terrain with pine forests and granite spires
Top Race
Deadwood Mickelson Trail Marathon
Climate and Weather
Continental with cold winters and warm summers. The Black Hills are cooler and get more precipitation. Eastern South Dakota has hot summers and extreme winter cold. The running season peaks from May through October.
Terrain and Landscape
The Black Hills in western SD offer mountain-like terrain with pine forests and granite spires. The Badlands feature dramatic eroded formations. Eastern South Dakota is flat prairie. The state offers more terrain diversity than most people expect.
Top Running Routes
George S. Mickelson Trail
109 milesBlack Hills
A crushed limestone rail trail through the Black Hills, passing through tunnels, over trestles, and through beautiful pine forest.
Badlands National Park Trails
3-10 milesBadlands
Trails through otherworldly eroded formations with vast prairie views.
Sioux Falls Bike Trail System
30+ milesSioux Falls
A paved trail network connecting parks and the Big Sioux River through South Dakota's largest city.
Sunday Gulch Trail
3.8 milesCuster State Park
A scenic loop through a granite canyon with creek crossings and rock scrambles.
Centennial Trail
111 milesBlack Hills
A trail running from Bear Butte to Wind Cave National Park through the heart of the Black Hills.
Popular Races
Deadwood Mickelson Trail Marathon
Deadwood
Sioux Falls Marathon
Sioux Falls
Lean Horse 100
Hot Springs
Running Culture
South Dakota's running community is small but passionate. The Black Hills attract trail runners from across the region. Sioux Falls is the hub for road running with an active running club and growing race calendar. The Lean Horse 100 is a well-known ultra that draws participants nationally.
Safety Tips
Black Hills trails are remote. Carry water, food, and navigation supplies.
Watch for mountain lions in the Black Hills. Make noise and run with others when possible.
Summer thunderstorms can be severe on the plains. Monitor weather before heading out.
Winter conditions on the plains are extreme. Wind chill can be life-threatening.
Make Running in South Dakota a Game
Turn your South Dakota runs into a real-world strategy game. Capture territory by running loops, compete with local runners on leaderboards, and explore every street through a Fog of War mechanic. Motera adds purpose and competition to every mile.
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
What is the Mickelson Trail?
The George S. Mickelson Trail is a 109-mile rail trail through the Black Hills, passing through 4 tunnels and over 100 converted railroad bridges. It is one of the finest rail trails in America, with crushed limestone surface and beautiful pine forest scenery.
Can you run in the Badlands?
Yes. Badlands National Park has several trails through its dramatic formations. The terrain is rugged and exposed, so carry water and wear sun protection. The Notch Trail and Castle Trail are popular options.
When is the best time to visit South Dakota for running?
June through September is ideal. Summer in the Black Hills is pleasant with temperatures in the 70s-80s. September brings fall colors and cooler temps. Avoid the plains in deep winter unless you are prepared for extreme cold.
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