Discover the Tallest Waterfall in South Dakota

Spending time in nature is amazing for the soul. Nothing says peace and relaxation like spending the afternoon watching a breathtaking waterfall. South Dakota is a beautiful state and home to many waterfalls. Falls Park, tucked in Sioux Falls, is home to the tallest waterfall in South Dakota. If you only have a couple of days in Sioux Falls, it has to be the city’s namesake, Falls Park.

The diversity of natural wonders in South Dakota is unbelievable. Dakota is a native Indian word meaning “friend,” and the State of South Dakota manifests into its name as a state that welcomes all its guests and visitors with open arms. This sparsely populated mid-western state is famous for Mount Rushmore, the spectacular sculpture of four U.S. presidents. The state is also home to bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. Badlands National Park welcomes nature lovers from all over the world to explore its grounds.

Falls Park

Falls Park is certainly worth visiting, even if you don’t reside in South Dakota. Situated on 128 acres of land, the park is nestled north of downtown along the Big Sioux River. As the river cascades over a series of rock faces in Falls Park, it reveals the remnants of the 19th-century Queen Bee Mill, which now serves as an observation deck for the falls.

A 0.04-mile loop trail guides visitors through the picturesque park and to several waterfall viewing spots. Leisurely meandering along the numerous winding paths, you’ll reach the pedestrian bridge, an ideal location for snapping photographs as it stands directly above the waterfall. Furthermore, you can enjoy the tallest waterfall in South Dakota from various vantage points, including a five-story observation tower.

Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, the tallest waterfall in South Dakota, is a sight to behold. Comprising several tiers surrounded by lush green grass and pathways, it allows visitors to fully experience its captivating beauty. Astoundingly, an average of 7,400 gallons of water plunges 100 feet every second. For those eager to explore the area, 34 miles of trails begin at the park, meandering through the city and along the river. Unlike many remote waterfalls that are difficult to access and necessitate miles of hiking, Sioux Falls boasts a more convenient location. Situated in the heart of the city, the falls are just north of downtown Sioux Falls, which is South Dakota’s largest city.

Queen Bee Mill

Falls Park, steeped in rich history, is home to some of Sioux Falls’s oldest buildings. Nestled just east of the river, the remains of the seven-story Queen Bee Mill stand as a testament to the past. South Dakota’s first senator, Richard Pettigrew, established the mill in 1887, when he determined Sioux Falls needed a local mill to help farmers save on wheat shipping costs to Minnesota or Wisconsin.

So, the mill opened its doors on October 25, 1881. The impressive seven-story structure was built of Sioux Quartzite quarried on site. An astounding $500,000 was spent on the mill’s construction, making it the most advanced mill in America at the time, with the capacity to process 1,500 bushels daily. Unfortunately, the mill closed its doors just two years later in 1883, due to insufficient water power and a limited wheat supply.

Today, the mill serves a new purpose as an observation deck. It provides a serene space for Falls Park visitors to unwind and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Sioux Falls.

Light and Power Company Building

The Light and Power Company building is on the river’s east bank. Completed in 1908, this quartzite building hosted three 500-kilowatt hydroelectric generators and used to be a dam and the millrace for the Queen Bee Mill. In the following years, after 1908, the plant added a coal-fired steam generator. Sioux Falls acquired the plant in 1977 after it was abandoned in 1974. Today, the plant is fully remolded and has become the favorite Falls Overlook Cafe.

Falls Overlook Cafe

Stensland Family Farms manages Falls Overlook Cafe and features various options. Guests can enjoy sandwiches, soups, salads, and ice cream. Healthy choices are also available.

Winter Wonderland at Sioux Falls

Falls Park is a magical place in the holiday season from November to January, thanks to thousands of colorful lights and decorations. The five-story tower shows a breathtaking 360-degree view of the park. The park lights up nightly from 5 pm until midnight.

Visitor Information

Falls Park Visitor Information Center, Gift Shop, and Viewing Tower
900 n. Phillips Ave

(605) 367-7430

Current Hours

10 am-6 pm daily

Closed:

Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day

Where is Falls Park Located on a Map?

Located in the north-central area of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Falls Park is a public park that encompasses the city’s magnificent waterfalls, offering visitors a breathtaking sight.

Spanning over 128 acres, this park, situated along the banks of the Big Sioux River, features not only stunning waterfalls but also additional attractions such as a cafe, an observation tower, and the remnants of an old mill. With its picturesque scenery and diverse amenities, Falls Park stands as a cherished destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Here is Falls Park on a map:

The photo featured at the top of this post is © photo.eccles/Shutterstock.com