Big Sioux Canoe Trail

The Big Sioux River, having always been a major source of outdoor recreation, is one of the most popular canoeing rivers in South Dakota. It has a slow current whose channel wanders through a thin belt of timber forming a serpentine course. Wildlife from whitetail deer to painted turtles can be seen along its banks. Water levels most years range from two to five feet and are adequate for canoeing.
Originating in northeastern South Dakota, the Big Sioux River winds southward to Sioux Falls, where it forms the boundary between South Dakota and Iowa until it meets the Missouri River. With good water levels in the spring and early summer, it is possible to paddle from US 14 near Brookings to the river's confluence with the Missouri River. Paddlers favor the segment from Lien Park in Sioux Falls to Newton Hills State Park. This stretch can usually be paddled spring and summer. Points of interest include the Big Sioux Recreation Area, Gitchie Manitou Park, the old Klondike Mills site and Newton Hills State Park. Both Big Sioux and Newton Hills have canoe launch sites and camping facilities. A park entrance license is required for these parks. There are several dangerous low head dams where watercraft must be portaged to the other side. Be certain to locate ALL dams before setting out.

A Big Sioux Canoe Trail Map is available from Southeast South Dakota Tourism. You can request it on the Request Free Guide page on this website or by calling 1-888-353-7382.