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Falls of the Big Sioux River
4.8 ★★★★★ 266 Google reviews · Running trail in Sioux Falls, South Dakota · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Falls of the Big Sioux River's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Falls of the Big Sioux River
“It is an utterly stunning park in the middle of a large city with great scenery, interesting history, and an overall fun experience.”
There is a nice sized walking path that takes you throughout the park. The rocks are really fun to climb on, but do be careful and make sure to wear the right shoes. This location would be great for a family get-together or a picnic. There's definitely a lot to explore.
These falls are the centerpiece of Falls Park. They offer some great views, sounds and picture opportunities when visiting the park. Although you can walk right up to the river's edge, the falls are a little more protected and rightfully so because of the danger they could be.
July 19, 2025 So glad we went to see this. This may be one of the most beautiful natural landscapes I have ever seen. It is a must see if visiting Sioux Falls. The park is very well kept. There's a certain serenity there even with a lot of people around. You can walk all over the rocks right to the side of the river.
Very beautiful place. Enough parking. Some walking. We walked around about 30 minutes. We were there at sunset and it was gorgeous. I felt safe with my kids walking near the water. We did see a snack at the rocks. We didn’t see bathrooms but weren’t really looking. It’s free and a very nice way to enjoy nature.
Trail conditions & character
“It is an utterly stunning park in the middle of a large city with great scenery, interesting history, and an overall fun experience.”
“We were able to use the bathroom at the Falls Overlook Cafe, right there on the river.”
Plan your run at Falls of the Big Sioux River
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websiteexperiencesiouxfalls.com
- Phone+1 605-275-6060
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 am–11:59 pm |
| Tuesday | 5 am–11:59 pm |
| Wednesday | 5 am–11:59 pm |
| Thursday | 5 am–11:59 pm |
| Friday | 5 am–11:59 pm |
| Saturday | 5 am–11:59 pm |
| Sunday | 5 am–11:59 pm |
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