Winter transforms this stunning landscape into a playground of powdery trails and wide-open slopes. Snowmobilers zoom across 350 miles of marked trails, while snowshoers and hikers make their way through a quiet expanse dotted with evergreens. Cross-country skiers will find everything from quick loops to full-day routes that wind deeper into the forest. After a day in the elements, nearby lodges are a cozy place to settle in for the night.

When winter arrives, this charming park in downtown Rapid City is straight out of a storybook. The circular ice rink welcomes everyone, from kids taking their first strides to couples gliding through easy, unhurried laps. When fingers start to get cold, the warm-up station provides a spot to sit by the fire and thaw out. Shops, breweries and restaurants lining the square give you even more reason to stick around once you step off the ice.

If you’re looking for peaceful hiking, the 109-mile George S. Mickelson Trail is just for you. The trail meanders through the Black Hills beneath ponderosa pine and spruce trees, which somehow feel even taller once they’re capped with snow. Parts of the trail are groomed for fat biking, so riding stays smooth. With fewer people around this time of year, it becomes a quiet spot to slow down and enjoy the forest’s beauty.

Close to the mountain towns of Lead and Deadwood, this resort is a picturesque place to spend a day on the slopes. There are runs for beginners and more confident skiers and snowboarders, and the terrain park includes jumps, boxes and rails. Private and semi-private lessons are available for anyone who wants to brush up on their skills. With ski-in/ski-out lodging and chalets, it’s easy to turn a day trip into an overnight retreat.

In the heart of Historic Deadwood, Outlaw Square becomes a lively community gathering spot in winter. Families stop by to skate, spin around in the ice bumper cars, and soak up the atmosphere at the outdoor rink. The square also hosts a Christmas tree lighting ceremony complete with hot cocoa and Santa sightings, while the Kringle Crawl — a town-wide holiday pub crawl — brings festive drinks and an ugly sweater contest.

Spearfish Canyon is pure magic in the winter, especially if you like to stay active. Snowmobilers can follow designated routes through the area, while snowshoers and cross-country skiers can take in the canyon’s breathtaking scenery at a slower, steadier pace. Ice climbers explore frozen waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls, though many visitors come simply to admire them — standing at the base and seeing the ice up close is impressive enough!

Winter is a rewarding time to experience South Dakota’s Badlands, when crowds are thin and snow clings to the otherworldly formations that seem to stretch on forever. You can take in plenty without going too far, whether you’re spotting bison along Badlands Loop Scenic Byway or stepping into the scenery on one of the park’s many accessible trails. If you’re planning a hike, look out for slick spots and bring waterproof hiking boots.

Fort Sisseton Historic State Park’s Frontier Christmas event brings a little slice of the North Pole to northeast South Dakota, with sleigh rides, craft activities and caroling. As you wander through the celebration, the scent of warm, roasted treats fills the air. Even outside of event days, the park offers winter hiking and snowshoeing, and heated cabins give you the option to stay overnight.

Eastern South Dakota’s prairies offer expansive views and lots of open space for exploring. Frozen lakes of all sizes are popular ice-fishing spots, with walleye and northern pike swimming just below the surface. Families flock to the region’s sledding hills, and the 329-mile Coteau des Prairies Trail is a haven for snowmobiling, connecting communities like Brookings, Volga and Watertown.

Winter is a great time to see the rugged formations of Palisades State Park, particularly if you enjoy hiking or snowshoeing. Many visitors stick to the easier paths during colder months, with pretty river views along the Split Rock, King and Queen, and South Wall trails. The park feels calm and quiet this season, and heated camping cabins are the perfect place to end the day when you’re done exploring.

Just minutes from Sioux Falls, 220 acres of snowy fun awaits at Great Bear Recreation Park. The park features downhill runs with lessons and rental gear that make skiing or snowboarding easy to jump into, along with a terrain park and glowing Lazer Tubing for a fun twist on winter nights.

Sioux Falls’ Jacobson Plaza gets in the winter spirit with its Ice Ribbon, a smooth, winding rink that families can enjoy together. After skating, warm up by the firepits or head to The Lodge for a hot drink and a bite to eat. Just across the Big Sioux River, Falls Park lights up for Winter Wonderland, an annual event that fills the area with colorful displays and holiday cheer all season long.