1
hikers
00:41
2.57km
30m
Hiking
The Leaders Park Trails offer a delightful escape into nature, winding through a mix of wooded areas and open fields right within Sioux Falls. You'll find yourself on natural surfaces, navigating around interesting rock features and roots, with a chance to spot wildlife near the creek's bridges. The scenery is particularly vibrant during the fall, making it a popular hiking route for those seeking colorful foliage and a refreshing outdoor experience.
This easy 1.6-mile (2.6 km) loop, with a gentle 101 feet (31 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 41 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a quick outing. Before you go, it's wise to check for Leaders Park Trails wet conditions closure details, as the trails are sometimes closed to protect them from damage. Parking is available, and the best season to hike for stunning views is autumn.
Leaders Park is known as a local "hidden gem," offering a hand-built, multi-use trail system that caters to hikers, runners, and mountain bikers. While the main loop is beginner-friendly, the park boasts about 4 miles of singletrack, including more challenging sections with climbs and switchbacks for those looking for a bit more adventure. It's a fantastic spot for family-friendly hiking, offering diverse terrain and a community garden within the park itself.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
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2.57 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.56 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.56 km
< 100 m
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Friday 10 July
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18°C
12 %
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This route was planned by komoot.
You can find parking areas conveniently located within Leaders Park in Sioux Falls, providing direct access to the trail system.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the trails. Please keep them on a leash and remember to clean up after your pet to help maintain the park's natural environment.
The Leaders Park Trails are open year-round. While beautiful in all seasons, the fall offers particularly stunning scenery with vibrant foliage. Be aware that trails may close during wet conditions to prevent damage.
No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to access the trails within Leaders Park. It is a public park open for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, the trail system caters to a range of skill levels. While there are more challenging sections, you'll find green (easy) and blue (moderate) loops that are suitable for beginners and intermediate hikers.
The main route described is approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) and can be completed in about 40-50 minutes at a leisurely pace. However, the park offers about 4 miles of interconnected trails, so you can extend your hike as desired.
The trails feature mostly natural surfaces, winding through wooded areas and open fields. You'll encounter a dynamic environment with climbs, downhill sections, rock features, roots, and bridges over a creek. It's a varied and engaging experience.
The park offers opportunities for wildlife sightings, providing a natural escape within the city. Keep an eye out for various birds and small mammals that inhabit the wooded and open areas.
The trails are multi-use and shared with mountain bikers, so it's important to remain alert and aware of your surroundings. Avoiding headphones can help you hear approaching riders. Also, note that the trails are closed during wet conditions to prevent damage.
This trail system is known for its hand-built singletrack design and the variety of challenges it offers, including unique features like dock drops, skinnies, and small rock gardens. It provides a surprisingly dynamic outdoor experience right within Sioux Falls.
The Leaders Park Trails consist of a system of interconnected loops. The route described on komoot is a loop, allowing you to start and finish at the same point, but you can explore various other loops within the park.
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