Exploring South Dakota by Train, Boat, or Hot Air Balloon
In the western reaches of South Dakota, near Rapid City, the Black Hills Central Railroad offers a nostalgic journey through pine-covered hills and rugged canyons. This historic train departs from Hill City, about 30 minutes southwest of Rapid City, winding along a 10-mile round trip route through the scenic Black Hills National Forest. Passengers can relax in vintage coaches or open-air cars while gazing at ponderosa pines and granite outcrops. The ride is particularly enchanting in late summer when wildflowers dot the meadows or in early fall as the aspens turn golden. The experience captures the romance of the Old West with a touch of local history, making it a unique way to see a quieter, greener side of the Black Hills compared to the busier tourist spots.
Floating high above the Missouri River near Pierre, the state capital situated along the river’s banks, offers a hot air balloon adventure unlike any other. Launching from open fields just outside Pierre, about an hour’s drive east from the city center, balloonists drift over the winding river and vast prairie lands. From this vantage point, the endless tapestry of grasslands, river bends, and distant bluffs unfolds beneath you. Early morning flights are best for calm winds and a spectacular sunrise, as the light paints the landscape in warm hues. Ballooning here showcases South Dakota’s lesser-known beauty, away from the Black Hills and Badlands, and offers a peaceful, almost surreal way to connect with the state’s open spaces.
On the eastern edge of the state, near Sioux Falls, the Big Sioux River meanders through a lush green corridor that is perfect for a boat excursion. The Big Sioux Recreation Area, located roughly 10 miles north of Sioux Falls, provides calm waters ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Paddlers can follow gentle currents beneath towering cottonwoods and watch for herons and deer along the banks. The trails through the park offer easy access points and picnic spots to rest after a paddle. This area is unique for how it blends accessible riverfront adventure with proximity to the state’s largest city. Late spring and early summer are prime times to visit, when the water levels are high and the trees are fully leafed, creating a vibrant habitat for wildlife sightings.
Further west, near Deadwood in the northern Black Hills, the historic 1880 Train offers another remarkable railroad journey. About 45 minutes northwest of Rapid City, this steam-powered excursion travels through the rugged terrain that once hosted gold rush prospectors. The trip follows the old Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad line with stops at scenic overlooks like Deerfield Lake and the Old Baldy mine. The vintage coaches and open-air cars provide a tactile connection to South Dakota’s mining heritage. Winter rides are especially memorable, with snow blanketing the pines and a crisp chill in the air that adds a sense of adventure to the winding trip. This ride stands out for its combination of history, engineering heritage, and dramatic mountain scenery.
On the Missouri River itself, the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area lies about 40 miles south of Sioux Falls near Yankton. This sprawling reservoir zone is a popular boating destination where visitors can rent motorboats or paddleboards to explore the peaceful coves and wide-open water. The area’s sandy beaches and campgrounds offer a full day or weekend of waterside fun. What makes this spot distinctive is its historical significance; it’s near the site where the famous expedition paused, and the visitor center provides context with exhibits and maps. Summer is the ideal time for boating here, with warm temperatures and steady breezes that make for comfortable afternoons on the water.
In the southeastern corner of the state, the town of Vermillion, home to the University of South Dakota, offers a charming riverfront for canoeing on the Big Sioux River. About 80 miles south of Sioux Falls, Vermillion’s slow-moving stretches of water are accessible for beginners and families. Paddling here winds through quiet woodlands and open farmland, often with a herd of deer or a pair of bald eagles overhead. The town’s vibrant arts scene and cozy cafés provide a welcoming base before or after a float trip. Early fall, when the leaves turn and the air cools, transforms this gentle river into a colorful and peaceful outdoor classroom.
Near the center of the state, the town of Huron, about 90 miles east of Pierre, hosts balloon festivals and offers ideal conditions for hot air balloon enthusiasts throughout the summer. The broad, open plains surrounding Huron provide uninterrupted views of the horizon, making it a favorite spot for both amateur and professional balloonists. From a balloon here, the patchwork of farms and small towns stretches out endlessly, embodying the heart of the American Midwest. The annual balloon events bring a festive atmosphere to the town and offer a unique way to appreciate South Dakota’s agricultural heritage from above. Mid to late summer is the best season, when the weather is stable and the skies are clear.
Back near Rapid City, the Mickelson Trail offers a different sort of train-related adventure for those who prefer to travel under their own power. This 109-mile-long rail trail, converted from a former railroad line, runs through the Black Hills from Edgemont to Deadwood. Cyclists and hikers can pick up the trail in towns like Keystone, just 30 minutes from Rapid City, and enjoy smooth gravel paths that pass through tunnels, over trestles, and alongside streams. The trail’s gentle grade and spectacular vistas of pine forests and granite formations make it one of the state’s premier outdoor recreation routes. Spring through fall is the season to explore, when the weather is warm and the forest is alive with wildlife and blooming flowers.
Together, these places reveal South Dakota through modes of travel that celebrate the state’s diverse landscapes and outdoor heritage. Whether riding historic steam trains through mountain forests, drifting silently in a balloon over expansive prairies, or paddling quiet rivers edged with wildlife, each journey provides a fresh perspective on this state’s rich natural and cultural tapestry. Travelers who seek adventure beyond the usual road trip will find South Dakota’s train, boat, and balloon experiences refreshingly vivid and deeply connected to the land.