Sioux Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.2 miles
Trail Type
Loop
About Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Falls Park, within the city of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The falls are part of the Big Sioux River and are a central feature of the park, offering stunning views and a rich history tied to the development of the area.
The Setting
Sioux Falls sits at 1,378 feet within Falls Park, in the foothills of South Dakota.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trails around Sioux Falls are paved and well-maintained, making them accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities. The loop trail provides multiple vantage points to view the falls and explore the surrounding park, including historic ruins and observation platforms.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Sioux Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sioux Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The falls are beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the best flow and lush greenery. Fall provides colorful foliage, and winter offers a chance to see the frozen falls.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Stay on designated paths and observation areas, as the rocks near the falls can be slippery and dangerous. Avoid entering the water due to strong currents and potential hazards.
Current Water Conditions
354 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 54 years of record
5.60 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BIG SIOUX R AT NORTH CLIFF AVE AT SIOUX FALLS,SD (2 km away).
Today
Moderate
382 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Strong
404 cfs
7/10Sun
Moderate
371 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
432 cfs
8/10Tue
Strong
488 cfs
7/10Wed
Strong
541 cfs
8/10Thu
Strong
442 cfs
8/10Best window: Sun — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late May, peaking in May.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Sioux Falls hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 35 feet of drop through Sioux Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,380 feet above sea level.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. Facing northwest, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,380 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 35 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Falls Park is located in downtown Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and is easily accessible by car. The park's address is 131 E Falls Park Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57104.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Ample free parking is available at Falls Park, including spaces for larger vehicles and accessible parking.
Elevation
1,378 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.555531° N, -96.722828° W
Land Management
Managed by JNT
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, and consider visiting during the winter when the falls may freeze, creating a unique and beautiful sight.
Where to Stay
Clarion Pointe Sioux Falls Airport
Comfort Inn & Suites at Sanford Sports Complex
AmericInn by Wyndham Sioux Falls North
Ramada by Wyndham Sioux Falls Airport - Waterpark Resort & Event Center
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the SculptureWalk in downtown Sioux Falls, the Old Courthouse Museum, and the Great Plains Zoo.
Wildlife
Visitors may see birds such as ducks and geese, as well as small mammals like squirrels in the park.
Other waterfalls named Sioux Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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