Hiking
All you need is a good pair of shoes to head out on your favorite trail. You can enjoy the scenery while taking care of your heart any time of the year. Walking, running, and hiking are all great aerobic physical activities that you can do just about anywhere.
Several hiking trails are part of the TRACK Trails program, where participants can earn prizes for hiking multiple trails across the nation.
Hiking Tips - Before You Go
- View the interactive map of all parks and trails and print individual park maps.
- Consider purchasing the AllTrails mobile app or the free Avenza Maps mobile app to help navigate the trail while at the park. These third-party mobile apps require the trail map to be downloaded prior, though they work offline to track your progress and location.
- Bring more water than you expect to need. Even for planned short hikes, carry food and a light source so that you're prepared if the hike takes longer than expected.
- Check the weather and remember sun protection, layers, and the right footwear.
- Reach out to a friend and let them know where you are hiking and when you expect to return.
- If hiking with a pet, review all park pet policies. This includes no pets on Bear Butte State Park's trail, carrying waste back out with you, and always keeping your pet under control.
Hiking Tips - On The Trail
- Stay on the designated and well-marked trail and avoid muddy trails.
- Dispose of all trash appropriately.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and any weather changes. Be mindful of poisonous plants.
- Be courteous to others on the trail, including giving right of way to hikers going uphill and yield for horses on multiuse trails.
- When approaching other hikers, make your presence known. If hiking as a group, be courteous by hiking single file.
- Recognize your limits and know when to turn around to make the hike back out safely.
- Enjoy the time in nature by taking lots of breaks to listen and take in the scenery.
State Parks that have Hiking