Driving trip through South Dakota

Hi All,

We will be passing through South Dakota during our cross country road trip from Sioux Falls to Rapid City in the third week of December. Could you please recommend all the stops that are not too much of a detour to make this drive interesting?

Thank you.

Driving trip through South Dakota

Tough time of year. There are things to see but getting out of the car will likely be very cold. The 10 day GFS forecast model currently shows day/night temps in South Dakota 10 degrees either side of zero for that week (http://wxmaps.org/pix/temp1.html). Some tourist type attractions may well be closed for the season too.

Obvious sights would be....

- Corn Palace in Mitchell, drive by and view from outside

- The Missouri River at Chamberlain - view from overlook

- Badlands National Park - depending on weather and road conditions the loop on Hwy 240 would be worthwhile. Might actually be more interesting if there is a little snow laying around. Note if doing the drive in one day (very easy in good weather) you would need to plan Sioux Falls departure to allow being at BNP during Winter operating hours of 8am-4pm.

- Wall Drug (for a steaming hot cup of coffee or cocoa) in Wall

I believe there is a Pioneer Town type open air museum nead Kadoka but doubt it is open in Winter.

Be sure to be prepared for Winter driving including a survival kit. …state.mn.us/metro/…winterdrivingtips.html

Noting the Fairfax, VA location be advised of the extra wind on the high prairie areas and the impact on win chill factor and blowing snow. make sure to have sufficient clothing to cover all exposed skin.

Driving trip through South Dakota

Uh oh, I%26#39;m a little late on this one. This is the coldest week of the year so I hope your drive goes OK. As Sequim says, Badlands Nat%26#39;l Park is clearly the best stop between Sioux Falls and Rapid City. You can see a lot from your car and the visitor center will be open so the winter is a good time to drive through.

Not knowing what the purpose of your trip is and where you%26#39;re going, Mt. Rushmore is the other major stop you can make. It%26#39;s about a half an hour southwest of Rapid City and is open all winter.

I think Sequim is referring to 1880 Town which is between Murdo and Kadoka. It%26#39;s closed this time of year.