Exploring the Wilderness in South Dakota for an Adventure
South Dakota offers a unique blend of natural landscapes and adventures, inviting enthusiasts to experience the wildness of nature. While Wyoming and Montana boast larger wilderness areas, South Dakota provides its own unique charm, especially for those looking for a simpler, slower pace.
The Lesser-Known Wilderness Areas of South Dakota
South Dakota, being a state with vast open spaces, is dotted with smaller but captivating wilderness areas that can provide a true wilderness experience. While Wyoming's Cloud Peak Wilderness area and Montana's Bob Marshall Wilderness area are vast, South Dakota too has its own offerings. These areas, however, may not be as large but still offer the tranquility and natural beauty that a wilderness adventure entails.
A popular way to experience the wilderness in South Dakota is by floating down the Missouri River or one of the large lakes formed by dams, such as the Oahe Dam. Camping along the shore of these water bodies offers a camper a get-away-from-it-all feeling, away from the hustle and bustle of highways and city sounds. It's a perfect spot for those who love nature but prefer smaller, more manageable wilderness areas.
Highway 85: The Ultimate Wildness Highway Experience
Passing through Highway 85 between Belfield in North Dakota and Belle Fourche in South Dakota is akin to embarking on a journey through South Dakota's most secluded and natural areas. This 200-mile stretch of road is sparsely populated and perfect for those who love wilderness. Highway 85 is a scenic route that offers a break from modern conveniences, inviting nature enthusiasts to connect with the true essence of the outdoors.
Between Belfield and Belle Fourche, you'll encounter a few quaint towns, but the highlight here is Buffalo, South Dakota. This small town, despite its modest size, boasts a gas station, making it a necessary stop for refueling. For those who prefer more tranquility, Buffalo's outdoor activities, such as snowshoeing or riding snowmobiles, can be arranged locally.
Belle Fourche is a larger town, located at the foot of the Black Hills, true mountains that draw visitors with their natural beauty. The Black Hills provide an escape from the brutal Dakota winters, offering a different kind of wilderness. Just an hour's drive from the tiny town of Redig, you'll start to notice the mountains to the south, a natural landmark that has inspired awe and wonder. The weather in this area is notably more pleasant, catering to those seeking a respite from the harsh climate.
Exploring the Black Hills and More in South Dakota
From Belle Fourche, you can venture into the Black Hills and explore the nearby towns, each offering its own slice of South Dakota's wilderness. Some notable destinations include Spearfish, Sturgis, Deadwood, and Mount Rushmore. These areas, while popular, remain relatively uncluttered and enclosed, making them ideal for a wilderness experience.
Renting a car in Dickinson, North Dakota, allows you to explore the Highway 85 route comprehensively. The area is known for its buttes reaching 3,500 feet into the sky, sweeping prairies that seem to stretch for miles, and 6,500-foot mountains. The locals, while friendly, are also eager for a break from routine, welcoming the fresh faces and smiles that they don't often see.
Winter in this region, while harsh, offers unique experiences. A wilderness adventure in the winter in the plains, outside of the protected areas like the Black Hills, can be as simple as walking to the store and needing a ride back if it's windy. For outdoor enthusiasts, this region is a treasure trove of adventure and natural beauty, offering a true wilderness experience without the overwhelming crowds or infrastructure seen in more popular tourist areas.