Sioux Falls Loop - Road Bike Trail Loop

The Sioux Falls Bike Trail Loop is possibly one of the most scenic bike trails in South Dakota. It’s a great easy-level ride with minimal climbs, no sudden drops, and no obstacles. It’ll also provide shade for most of the way, so if you don’t want to be in the sun, this should be a great option. However, most of it is about eight feet wide, open to hikers, riders, skaters, and is even mobility scooter accessible. As such, be prepared to share it with others no matter what day or time you go there.

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

The Sioux Falls Bike Trail Loop is a multiple-access point trail that goes through several interconnected city parks. As such, while the designated parking area at the East end of the trail off East Falls Park Drive is a great start and end point, you can start the ride from other points if you’re a resident.

Once you start, there aren’t many surprises from a biker’s point of view except for the kid or pet running across the path, so you should keep your speed at a controllable level. Most of the trail features a 5% or less gradient, so you won’t struggle. However, you might test your lungs depending on how fast and far you go.

There is a small section that we noticed on the North side of Falls Park with an extended climb but other than that, it should be something that even a first-time rider can handle.

Most of the trail is paved with either an asphalt or concrete surface, so ditching your mountain bike and getting on a road bike - if you have one - shouldn’t be a problem.

If this is your first or even umpteenth time hitting this trail, we recommend slowing down and enjoying the scenery around you.

There are many picturesque areas on the trail, including bridges, parts of the river, statues, fields of flowers, and even some wildlife if you’re lucky. Also, you should have no problem finding washrooms or potable water at any point if you need to.

Additional Trail Features

• Extra fees: Given that the trail runs through public parks, you shouldn’t have to pay any extra fees along the way.
• Obstacles: There aren’t any obstacles to speak of, with most of the trail being an easy ride.
• Shuttles: Also, while you can get public transport near the trail, none caters specifically to bikers and their gear.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, Views

Most of the trail provides interesting views, so it’s best to keep your eyes open and head on a swivel.

Recommendations and Precautions

• The trails are not as well marked, so if you’re new to the area, you should be careful not to lose your bearings.
• Make sure to stop by the observation tower at Falls Park.
• Maintain a reasonable speed since you’ll likely be sharing the trail with many others.