The best cycling routes around Yankton
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riders
5
rides
Touring cycling around Yankton features a landscape shaped by the Missouri River and its associated lakes, including Lewis and Clark Lake and Lake Yankton. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible cycling. Routes often follow the shores of these bodies of water and connect various parks and trails within the city. The area provides a network of paved paths ideal for relaxed cycling.
Best touring cycling routes around Yankton
- The most popular touring cycling route is Lewis and Clark Lake Trail, a 13.1 miles (21 km) trail that takes 1 hour 12 minutes to complete. This easy route offers views along the lake's shoreline.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Lake Yankton loop, an easy 10.4 miles (17 km) path. This route circles Lake Yankton, providing consistent water views.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Gavins Point Dam loop via Toe Road — Yankton, South Dakota, a 19.7 miles (32 km) trail leading through riverfront areas and past the dam, often completed in about 1 hour 56 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Yankton is defined by its lakefront paths, river trails, and urban park connections. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy touring bike trails Yankton.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 7 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Yankton's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
5
riders
21.2km
01:13
70m
70m
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Lewis and Clark Lake Trail, a route that winds through a pleasantly wooded and quiet landscape. This 13.1-mile (21.2 km) journey features a gentle elevation gain of just 243 feet (74 metres), making it accessible for most riders. You can expect to complete the entire loop in about 1 hour and 12 minutes, enjoying continuous picturesque lake views as you follow the northern side of Lewis and Clark Lake. The trail offers serene stretches through camping areas and provides an overlook with expansive vistas of the lake and distant chalkrock bluffs.
Before you set out, remember that a park entrance fee is necessary to access the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, where the trail is located. The route is well-maintained and provides convenient facilities along the way, including toilets, drinking water, benches, and picnic tables. These amenities make planning your stops easy and ensure a comfortable experience throughout your ride.
As you cycle, keep an eye out for local wildlife that frequently inhabits the area, such as deer, turkey, and various bird species. The trail's path along the lake's northern side offers unique perspectives of the water and the surrounding natural environment. This makes the Lewis and Clark Lake Trail a notable option for those seeking a tranquil outdoor experience combined with easy cycling.
1
riders
16.7km
01:04
50m
50m
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride around the Lake Yankton loop, where you'll pedal past the tranquil waters of Lake Yankton and the wider Lewis and Clark Lake area. This 10.4-mile (16.7 km) route offers a gentle experience, with only 148 feet (45 metres) of elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed outing that takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes. As you cycle, you'll encounter a mix of sandy beaches, native woods, and meadows, with impressive chalk bluffs visible in the distance and prominent views of Gavins Point Dam.
Planning your visit to the Lake Yankton loop is straightforward, as the trail is known for its well-maintained, mostly paved surfaces, ensuring a smooth ride. You can generally find parking within the Lewis & Clark State Recreation Area, providing convenient access to the starting point. There are no specific warnings about seasonal closures or permits, so you can typically plan your ride without special considerations.
This route offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Yankton's natural features, part of the Missouri River system. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, turkeys, and various waterfowl that frequent the area. The diverse landscape, from sandy shores to native woodlands, highlights the unique ecosystem surrounding Lake Yankton.
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1
riders
31.7km
01:56
90m
90m
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Gavins Point Dam loop via Toe Road, offering expansive views of Lewis and Clark Lake and the Missouri River. This route covers 19.7 miles (31.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 310 feet (94 metres), making it a pleasant journey for nearly two hours, estimated at 1 hours and 56 minutes. You will cycle through a landscape featuring Niobrara chalk cliffs, sandy beaches, and wetlands, with the impressive Gavins Point Dam as a central visual landmark.
This family-friendly bike trail is predominantly paved and easy to navigate, making it well-suited for touring bicycles. You can find excellent vantage points of the lake, dam, and river from the Lewis and Clark Center, located atop Calumet Bluff. The trail is part of a larger network of multi-use trails within the Gavins Point and Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, providing ample opportunities for exploration.
As you ride, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as wild turkeys and deer, which frequent the area. Cycling across the 1.9-mile-long Gavins Point Dam is a highlight, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding environment. This route is one of the most popular cycling trails in the region, known for its diverse scenery and accessible terrain.
15.4km
00:56
50m
50m
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Yankton loop via Auld Brokaw Trail, a paved path that winds gently through the city. This 9.6-mile (15.4 km) route offers a smooth experience, gaining only 175 feet (53 metres) in elevation, making it perfect for a quick 55-minute outing. As you cycle, you will follow the curves of Marne Creek, observing native grasses and wildflowers that line the way. The trail connects several city parks, providing a pleasant urban greenway. You might even catch glimpses of the Missouri River as the route approaches the Lewis and Clark Lake Recreation Area, where wild turkeys or deer are sometimes spotted.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Auld Brokaw Trail is a 10-foot-wide paved pathway, suitable for all skill levels and types of bicycles. You will find trailside benches placed conveniently for resting along the way. The route seamlessly connects to various parts of Yankton, including local schools and parks. For those driving, parking is generally available at the city parks that are linked by the trail, offering easy access points.
This trail stands out as a key part of Yankton's urban infrastructure, providing a vital connection between different city areas and natural spaces. It serves as an excellent example of how urban planning can integrate green corridors for recreation and transportation. The route's proximity to the Lewis and Clark Lake Recreation Area also offers a gateway to broader outdoor adventures, hinting at the region's rich natural environment and the expansive Missouri River landscape.
9.86km
00:37
40m
30m
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Fantle Memorial Park loop via Auld-Brokaw Trail. This route offers a pleasant journey alongside the meandering Marne Creek, where you can enjoy views of native grasses and wildflowers. Covering 6.1 miles (9.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 116 feet (35 metres), this trail is designed for a quick and enjoyable spin, typically taking around 37 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Auld-Brokaw Trail is predominantly paved with a smooth concrete surface, making it suitable for most touring bicycles and all skill levels. The trail conveniently connects various city parks, providing multiple access points. You will find ample parking available directly at Fantle Memorial Park in Yankton, making it an ideal starting point for your cycling adventure.
This trail is notable for connecting several community green spaces, offering a continuous and scenic path through Yankton. As you cycle through Fantle Memorial Park, you will pass by a memorial dedicated to military veterans, along with a playground and picnic areas, providing spots for relaxation or family activities. The route highlights the accessible and scenic nature of the area, perfect for a refreshing outdoor experience.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
Fantle Memorial Park is located in the center of Yankton. It has several paved paths that you can bike along and enjoy the relaxing park setting. There is alot of shaded areas in the park and it also has a swimming pool, tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields, playground equipment, picnic shelters and abundant open space. In the center of the park, there is a memorial to veterans who have served our country, as well as two time capsules.
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Westside Park is a beautiful city park within the limits of Yankton. There is a large pond in the center, where you can normally see ducks and other waterfowl. There are benches to relax on and restrooms available.
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Wonderful view from the path of Gavins Point Dam. The dam was constructed in 1957 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to redirect the Missouri River. It also created Lake Yankton, which is on the other side of the dam.
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Wonderful view from the path of Gavins Point Dam. The dam was constructed in 1957 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to redirect the Missouri River. It also created Lake Yankton, which is on the other side of the dam.
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Lewis and Clark Recreation Area is one of South Dakota's most population resort park. There are numerous activities available for visitors including birdwatching, fishing and boating. There are beaches to relax and enjoy the Missouri River and many paved bike paths to explore.
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Riverside Park is located right on the banks of the Missouri River. It is a great area for walking, biking or relaxing by the water. There are picnic areas and restrooms in the park.
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The Meridian Bridge Trail is a vertical lift bridge that was built over the Missouri River in 1924. It used to be open to car traffic. A new bridge was built to the west and the old bridge was redeveloped as a biking and pedestrian bridge. Today, pedestrians and cyclists can cross the width of the river on either of the bridge’s two levels, which gives them a great view of the city and river.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Yankton?
Yankton offers 5 dedicated touring cycling routes, all categorized as easy, making them accessible for a wide range of cyclists.
Are the touring cycling routes in Yankton suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, all touring cycling routes in Yankton are rated as easy, featuring generally flat terrain and paved paths. This makes them ideal for beginners, families with children, or anyone looking for a relaxed ride. Routes like the Fantle Memorial Park loop via Auld-Brokaw Trail are particularly family-friendly.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Yankton?
Many of Yankton's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Lake Yankton loop and the Gavins Point Dam loop via Toe Road, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Yankton's touring cycling routes?
The terrain around Yankton is predominantly flat with minimal elevation changes, shaped by the Missouri River and its associated lakes. Routes primarily follow paved paths along shorelines and through urban parks, providing a smooth and comfortable cycling experience.
What are some scenic highlights or points of interest along the routes?
Yankton's touring cycling routes offer consistent views of the Missouri River, Lewis and Clark Lake, and Lake Yankton. The Gavins Point Dam loop via Toe Road, for instance, takes you past the impressive Gavins Point Dam and through riverfront areas. Many routes also connect various city parks, providing pleasant green spaces.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Yankton?
The best time for touring cycling in Yankton is typically during the spring and fall months when temperatures are mild and comfortable. Summer can also be enjoyable, but it's advisable to cycle in the mornings or late afternoons to avoid the midday heat. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for more experienced riders?
While all routes are rated easy, some offer longer distances for those seeking a more extended ride. The Gavins Point Dam loop via Toe Road is the longest at nearly 32 km (19.7 miles), providing a good option for a longer, relaxed touring experience.
Where can I find parking for the touring cycling routes in Yankton?
Parking is generally available at various access points along the routes, particularly near parks and recreational areas that connect to the trails. For routes like the Lewis and Clark Lake Trail, you can often find parking near public access points around the lake.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling trails in Yankton?
Many of Yankton's outdoor trails are dog-friendly, especially those in public parks and along the lakefronts. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and check for specific signage regarding pet regulations in certain areas or on specific trail sections.
What should I bring for a touring cycling trip in Yankton?
For a comfortable touring cycling trip in Yankton, it's recommended to bring water, snacks, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), and appropriate cycling attire. A basic repair kit and a charged phone are also good to have. Given the scenic water views, a camera might be a nice addition.
Are there any facilities like cafes or restrooms along the touring cycling routes?
While the routes themselves are primarily natural or paved paths, many pass through or near urban areas and parks where restrooms and cafes can be found. Routes that connect to city parks, such as the Yankton loop via Auld Brokaw Trail, often provide access to such amenities within a short distance.
What makes Yankton a good destination for touring cyclists?
Yankton is an excellent destination for touring cyclists due to its extensive network of paved, easy-grade trails. The region's focus on lakefront and river trails, combined with minimal elevation changes, creates a relaxed and scenic cycling environment suitable for all skill levels, particularly those who enjoy leisurely rides with beautiful water views.
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