Explore Local

Wondering where to explore locally for day trips and excursions? Check out these locations for ways to get outdoors and active in all seasons. 

Biking


Climbing

  • Outdoor: Two state parks within 45 minutes of Sioux Falls are considered climbing 'hot spots' in southeastern South Dakota. Palisades State Park, located in Garretson, SD, is a little over 150 acres of beautiful Sioux quartzite rock formations for the avid climber. Blue Mounds State Park, located in Luverne, MN, also offers a variety of climbing experiences. Both state parks require a daily park permit for park access. 
  • Indoor: Augustana Outdoor Program frequently uses a small indoor rock wall located at Central Baptist Church. This wall has 5 ropes and a variety of routes and is free for us to use. We frequently travel to the University of South Dakota and occasionally South Dakota State University to use their walls as well. Both walls are approximately an hour away from Sioux Falls, making indoor climbing less accessible than outdoor most times of year. We also travel to Climberz gym to use their facilities.

Hiking


Paddling


City Parks


Winter Recreation

  • Ice Skating/Rinks: The City of Sioux Falls offers multiple outdoor rinks during the winter seasons with cheap skate rentals. Two of these locations offer hockey nets as well. The closest option to Augie is Campus Park, located on Summit  Ave. Indoor ice rinks are available year-round at Scheels IcePlex
  • Downhill Skiing/Snowboarding/Tubing/Sledding: Great Bear Recreation Park offers over 220 acres to explore! In the colder months, 14 downhill trails and a ski lift are open for snowboarding and downhill skiing. Snow tubing is alo available. Equipment rentals and lessons are offered on-site. Check out Tuthill Park when there's snow, as it is a popular sledding location (and borrow a sled from Rec. Services)!
  • Cross Country Skiing/Snowshoeing: The City of Sioux Falls offers three options for groomed Nordic (classic and skate) ski trails: Spencer Park, Sertoma Park and Great Bear Recreation Park.

Local Outdoor Stores and Rentals

Check local stores for outdoor gear, clothing and rentals. Remember-Augustana Outdoor Program does have a variety of outdoor gear available for to rent for free!