Big Sioux Recreation Area

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

A simple route along the singletrack trail to clear the mind and get the blood flowing. This run follows the trails to the Archery Trail Loop area and the Prairie Vista Trail area.

Good trail for running, varied terrain will allow you a chance to get the heart rate up, and not have to worry about injury too much.

A good, short run just to get the blood flowing, or to train for longer runs. Starting from the "Day Use Area," I followed the UNNAMED trail through the Frisbee Golf area and across the bridge headed towards the Archery Range. The route then follows the Prairie Vista Trail along the river headed north.

On the north end of the park, you can follow the trail up the crest of the ridge to the top, or do a "Double Back" about 1/2 way and then climb the steep hill face to the hill crest for a more physically-demanding run.

There is a hilltop bench area that provides an awesome view to the east for sunrise photography. For added distance, you can cut down the back of the hill and follow the Archery Trail back around to the suspension bridge and back to the parking lot at the "Day Use Area".

Overall, the smooth trails provide great opportunity for trail running and hiking, and also a good place for some winter snowshoeing.

Deer are plentiful in the area. Because it's wooded, always check for ticks when you're done. Eagles have been seen along the river as well.