Garretson South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Garretson, South Dakota.
1. Palisades State Park
STUNNING NATURAL ROCK FORMATIONS
Palisades State Park features impressive quartzite rock formations along Split Rock River, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities. Visitors can explore various trails that wind through these unique geological features and enjoy the natural beauty of South Dakota. The park provides excellent opportunities for photography, rock climbing, and picnicking in a serene environment.
2. Devil's Gulch
HISTORIC OUTLAW ESCAPE ROUTE
Devil's Gulch is famous for being the location where outlaw Jesse James allegedly made his daring leap across the chasm while escaping a posse. The site features a footbridge spanning the gorge, allowing visitors to experience the dramatic landscape. The surrounding area offers beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and historical markers explaining the legendary history.
3. Split Rock Park
SCENIC RIVERSIDE RECREATION
Split Rock Park encompasses beautiful quartzite rock formations along Split Rock River with interesting WPA architecture including a dam with waterfall. The park features historic structures such as a bathhouse, bridges, and rock wall with flower garden, all constructed using local quartzite. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful setting, unique geology, and recreational opportunities including fishing and picnicking.
4. The Treasure Chest
ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES
The Treasure Chest is a beloved antique shop and flea market offering a variety of unique items and collectibles in Garretson. Visitors praise the store for its interesting selection and friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite stop for both locals and tourists. The shop contributes to Garretson's charming downtown character and represents the value of locally-owned businesses in the community.
5. Balance Rock Trail
GEOLOGICAL WONDER HIKE
Balance Rock Trail is an excellent hiking path featuring the impressive balancing rock formation and dramatic rock formations on both sides of the river. The trail offers accessible adventure for hikers of all skill levels while showcasing some of the area's most distinctive natural features. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views and unique photo opportunities throughout the well-maintained route.
6. The King & Queen Trail
MAJESTIC ROCK FORMATION TRAIL
The King & Queen Trail is one of four scenic trails in Palisades State Park, offering hikers views of dramatic rock formations resembling royal figures. The trail provides a moderate hiking experience through beautiful natural landscapes and distinctive geological features. Hikers can enjoy panoramic vistas and close encounters with the unique quartzite formations that characterize the region.
7. Garretson Area Historical Society & Heritage Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Garretson Area Historical Society & Heritage Museum preserves and shares the history of the Garretson area for future generations. The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts that showcase the rich cultural heritage and development of the community. Visitors can explore exhibits that bring to life the stories and people who have shaped this charming South Dakota town.
8. Devil's Falls
PICTURESQUE NATURAL WATERFALL
Devil's Falls is a scenic waterfall located within the Devil's Gulch area, accessible via a hiking trail that offers beautiful views. While somewhat distant from the main trail, the waterfall creates a peaceful natural attraction worth the journey. The falls provide a serene backdrop for nature photographers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Garretson area.
9. Split Rock Creek Trail
RIVERSIDE NATURE PATH
Split Rock Creek Trail follows the meandering path of Split Rock Creek, offering hikers a peaceful journey through the natural landscape. The trail showcases the beautiful waterway and surrounding rock formations that characterize the Palisades region. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and the soothing sounds of flowing water throughout their hike.
10. South Wall Trail
DRAMATIC CLIFF VIEWS
South Wall Trail offers hikers impressive views of the towering quartzite cliff faces that define the Palisades landscape. The trail provides multiple vantage points to appreciate the geological formations created over millions of years. Hikers can experience the dramatic scale of these natural structures while enjoying a relatively accessible outdoor adventure.
11. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
ICONIC PRESIDENTIAL MONUMENT
Mount Rushmore National Memorial features the iconic 60-foot faces of four American presidents carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore. Known as America's Shrine of Democracy, the monument represents the birth, growth, development, and preservation of the United States. Visitors can explore the Presidential Trail, visit the Sculptor's Studio, and attend the evening lighting ceremony during summer months.
12. Custer State Park
WILDLIFE AND NATURAL BEAUTY
Custer State Park spans 71,000 acres of natural beauty where nearly 1,300 bison roam freely alongside pronghorn antelope, elk, mountain goats, and burros. The park offers spectacular scenic drives like the Needles Highway and Wildlife Loop Road, providing opportunities to witness wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and swimming in the park's pristine lakes and streams.
13. Crazy Horse Memorial
MONUMENTAL NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBUTE
Crazy Horse Memorial is a massive mountain sculpture in progress that will be the world's largest sculpture when completed, honoring the legendary Lakota leader. The memorial complex includes the Indian Museum of North America and Native American Educational & Cultural Center, offering insights into Native American history and culture. Begun by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski in 1948, this ongoing project represents Native American heritage and resilience.
14. Jewel Cave National Monument
VAST UNDERGROUND WONDER
Jewel Cave National Monument protects the third-longest cave system in the world, featuring a stunning array of calcite formations. Visitors can choose from various guided tours that showcase the cave's unique features, including its namesake crystal formations that sparkle like jewels in the lamplight. Above ground, the monument encompasses 1,279 acres of pine forest with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
15. Historic Deadwood
LEGENDARY WILD WEST TOWN
Historic Deadwood is a perfectly preserved 1870s gold rush town that became a National Historic Landmark in 1961, famous for legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. The town offers a blend of history and entertainment with museums, historic sites, gaming halls, and the Mount Moriah Cemetery where many Old West figures are buried. Visitors can enjoy regular reenactments of historic events, guided tours, and annual events that celebrate Deadwood's colorful past.