0.9 mi
19.4 mi
4 mi
9.7 mi
3 mi
A huge draw card to this trail system is the beautiful scenery. A large chunk of the trail runs adjacent to the ever-popular Sioux River encircling the city. Cyclists can also expect challenging mountain climbs with some paved areas along the trail.
Some sections are made up of open grassy areas and natural dirt surfaces. All of these make the trail system ideal for beginner cyclists, mountain bikers, runners and hikers. Some of this fun bike trail is laid out over a suspension bridge that goes over the river before winding down with the Big Sioux on the one side and the larger prairie area on the other.
| Land area | 210,27 km² |
| Minimum Elevation | 968 ft |
| Maximum Elevation | 1,470 ft |
Sioux Falls is regarded by many as being one of the best places to live in South Dakota. This has a lot to do with the dense suburban feel. In an area where most residents own their own homes, the area offers several parks, coffee shops and bars for homeowners to enjoy.
Additionally, the cost of living in Sioux Falls is 3% lower than the state average and about 8% lower than the national average. More impressive is the fact that housing in the area is 7% cheaper than the general U.S. average. Utilities are also considered to be 16% less than the national average.
| Total population | 196,528 (2021) |
| Population density | 2,387.25/mi² |
In Sioux Falls, residents and visitors can expect warm summers with freezing winters. In addition to the cooler temperatures, winter also brings snow and windy conditions.
Since Sioux Falls is situated in the northern hemisphere it means that the summer months are May to October. This is also the best time of the year for cyclists to enjoy weather warm and safe enough for some time on the trails.
| Month | Average Temperature |
|---|---|
| January | 18°F |
| February | 22°F |
| March | 34°F |
| April | 47°F |
| May | 59°F |
| June | 69°F |
| July | 74°F |
| August | 71°F |
| September | 62°F |
| October | 49°F |
| November | 34°F |
| December | 21°F |
The Sioux Falls trail system is easily accessible from the 4 designated accessible spaces in the parking lot of the East Falls Park Drive that’s situated at the east end of the trail. Since most of the trail surface in this area is paved with concrete or asphalt, riders can expect a smooth ride.
As with the roads, the trail can be slippery and dangerous during the snowy, winter months. Since all the trails are well marked, the general route is easy to follow. Sticking to the trail until it gets to the downtown area will take you past the fairgrounds where there is always lots to do. With beautiful scenery, shady areas and water located every couple of miles the trail is a fun ride for both beginner and seasoned cyclists alike.
One of the top reasons that the Sioux Falls Trail is so popular is that it’s not only dog friendly, but its attractions include multiple activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Some of the more notable things to do along the trail include:
If you’re an avid cyclist, you’ll be delighted to learn that The Sioux Falls Bike Trail Loop is the longest bike path in the South Dakota area. It generally runs for about 34 miles on the paved trail, making it easy enough for beginners (adults and children) to ride. Additionally, the trail system includes a 19-mile loop that not only follows the Big Sioux River but goes all the way around the city.
Since the Sioux Falls Bike Trail is considered by many to be a very easy trail, cyclists can expect to complete the route in about 5 or 6 hours. The route is also open to hiking, pedestrians and birdwatchers, so cyclists may encounter some traffic, which could affect the time it takes to do the whole trail.
The speed limit on the Sioux Falls bike trail is 15 mph. This is largely because the trail is open to pedestrians and slower-moving traffic such as strollers and wheelchairs. Cyclists are urged to keep to the right, be careful at crossings and slow down where there’s traffic.