South Dakota

History Cum Nature Mix

South Dakota's history is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Native American population that originally inhabited the area. Today, over 50,000 Native Americans live in the state, and multiple reservations share South Dakota's terrain with sprawling farmlands. The proud history of the Sioux Nation has permeated the state and can be experienced at museums like the Akta Lakota Museum, while even more ancient history can be found at the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village archaeological site.

As fascinating as the first inhabitants and the subsequent explorers is the region's natural landscape. The western portion harbours the massive Black Hills and the protruding spires and buttes of the Badlands National Park. Through the centre of the state runs the Missouri River and various dams and manmade lakes offering endless spots for fishing and water sports. The eastern portion of the state is characterised by the wide-open prairies that shaped frontier history.

South Dakota offers the visitor an opportunity to reconnect with the history that shaped the West. The historic landmarks, natural wonders, and diverse population make South Dakota a perfect retreat for any visitor. It has some incredible sights for the tourist. Mount Rushmore National Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of American democracy. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln, sculpted on the face of the mountain, make up the world-famous ‘Shrine of Democracy.’ Sculptor Gutzon Borglum began drilling into the 5,725-foot mountain in 1927. Creation of the Shrine of Democracy took 14 years and cost a mere $1 million, though it's now deemed priceless. The memorial offers interpretive programmes, exhibits and a film at the Lincoln Borglum Museum. Rangers provide interpretive walks and talks, including the Evening Sculpture Lighting Ceremony. The lighting programme takes place at approximately 9 p.m. nightly (May-September) in the park's amphitheatre. Other programmes being offered include guided walks to the Sculptor's Studio, Presidential Trail walks, talks on the Grandview Terrace, afternoon children's activities and studio talks. Check at the park's Visitor Centre or call the park at (605) 574-2523 for the timing of these activities. More information is also available on the Mount Rushmore National Memorial website.

Crazy Horse Memorial is another major destination of South Dakota. It is a nine-storey-high face of the legendary Lakota leader, Crazy Horse. And then there is the Black Hills National Forest, a sea of pine trees, so thick they look black from a distance, which cover these aged mountains. Black Hills National Forest stretches for 1.2 million acres, offering outdoor adventure against a backdrop of stunning scenery. The harsh landscape of Badlands National Park was created by millions of years of erosion. The Lakota called it ‘mako sica’, meaning ‘land bad’. Today, you can view these fantastic formations along scenic roads or hiking trails. If you want more of natural wonders, there are the National Caves. Within a ring of limestone surrounding the granite core of the Black Hills lies one of the largest cave systems in the world. Jewel Cave National Monument and Wind Cave National Park are examples of this underground wilderness. Besides these, state parks and recreation areas showcase South Dakota's scenery, history and recreational variety. Custer State Park is home to a herd of 1,500 free-roaming bison. Each October, Western adventure reigns at Custer State Park as they gather the entire bison herd in the annual Buffalo Roundup. The event makes for a great camping adventure. While there are many roads to travel in South Dakota, a few hold special significance for their beauty. These Scenic Byways will delight the senses and rejuvenate the most weary traveler.

Events And Activities

There are many festivals that take place throughout the year paying tribute to the unique cultures and events that shaped the state. Schmeckfest takes place in mid- to late March in the town of Feeman. This holiday celebrates the state's German heritage with a German food extravaganza that includes bratwurst, sauerkraut, cheese buttons, and kuchen. Dakota Nation's annual Wacipi, or powwow, is held in Sisseton for several days over the Fourth of July holiday.

Motorcyclists enjoy South Dakota's wide-open spaces. One of the biggest events every summer is the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

South Dakota's national Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Signature Event, features activities showcasing the American Indian perspective of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Cyclists rave about South Dakota's awesome rides while fishing and hunting enthusiasts love South Dakota for its great variety of wildlife and unbeatable locations. Then there are the golf courses if you want a sojourn in the greens.

South Dakota has broad expanses of prairie, mountain, lake and river-break country open for you and your walking shoes. You'll want to explore the state's hiking trails. Even in winter South Dakota is abuzz with activities. Skiing, snowmobiling, skating, ice fishing and the rest are more than fun adventures. They're wonderful excuses to sightsee in the cold!