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South Dakota is stunning all year long, but it especially comes to life during the fall months, when the landscape transforms into fiery shades of gold, amber and crimson. Here in the Mount Rushmore State, the air turns crisp, making it the best time to take refreshing wilderness walks and cozy up to bonfires and cups of coffee from quaint cafes. Not only is this sparsely populated midwestern state bursting with natural beauty, it also is home to sweet, small towns that serve as the ideal base camps for autumn exploration. Here are 2024's towns in South Dakota that come alive in the fall. Each of these charming places remain perfect choices for your bucket list of fall destinations.

Deadwood

Founded in 1876 when its creeks were full of gold, lively Deadwood once welcomed infamous outlaws such as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Today, the historic town, which is situated in South Dakota's beautiful Black Hills, is a tourist hotspot. This charming getaway destination with a wild west flair is especially stunning from mid-September through mid-October, when fall foliage peaks. Check out the fiery colors during a trip to the nearby Pactola Reservoir or Sheridan Lake, which is ideal for boating and fishing, even during the cooler autumn months. To see the area's fall colors from a unique perspective, climb aboard the 1880 Train, a vintage steam locomotive that winds through the scenic Black Hills. If you're lucky enough to be visiting Deadwood at the beginning of October, don't miss the annual Oktoberfest, which features live German music, family-friendly entertainment, beer barrel games, and seasonal delicacies.

Spearfish

Conveniently located between Mount Rushmore and Devil's Tower, stunning Spearfish is also nestled in the Black Hills. Visitors can take the 19-mile-long Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway into the charming town, which transforms into a colorful wonderland during the autumn months. The entire area comes to life with fall fairs, outdoor markets, pumpkin patches, apple orchards, and crisp, cool air from September through November. Each year, the town hosts its Spearfish Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch, which offers families a chance to navigate an exciting maze and choose the perfect pumpkin for making a jack-o-lantern. Nature lovers won't want to miss a trip to Roughlock Falls, where they can take an invigorating autumn hike while enjoying the vibrant foliage.

Aberdeen

The charming small town of Aberdeen is a nature-lover's paradise all year long, but it especially comes to life in fall. Visitors enjoy festivals, fairs, apple- and pumpkin-picking, as well as several Halloween events from September through November. The Back Forty Beef Adventure Farm & Corn Maze Fall, draws in tourists from all over, as does Wylie Park, Groton Pumpkin Fest, Trick-Or-Treat on Main, and the American Legion Post 24 Turkey Shoot. If you prefer a more relaxing pace during your fall visit to Aberdeen, you're in luck. Spend time exploring the trails at Sica Hollow State Park, which is filled with stately elms, oaks, and maple trees bursting with autumnal hues of gold, red, and orange. The park is nestled in the scenic Prairie Coteau Hills, and is ideal for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. Set out along the park's main trail, the Trail of Spirits, which runs along Roy Creek and is the perfect place to glimpse local wildlife.

Hill City

Located in the heart of the Black Hills, sweet Hills City has a population of just around 1,000. What is lacks in population, however, it more than makes up for stunning scenery, fun fall events, and natural areas just waiting to be explored by outdoor adventurers. Hill City offers easy access to several major parks, including the Black Hills National Forest, which is known for its breathtaking autumn foliage that peaks near the end of September and early October each year. Take the trek up to Flag Mountain Lookout or Whitetail Peak to take in one-of-a-kind views in the crisp autumn air. Whether you're taking a romantic weekend getaway or a fall family vacation to Hill City, you'll find a festive event to meet your desires. If you're bringing your kids, check out the annual Hill City Children's Boo Bash & Pumpkin Festival at the end of October. The spooky, Halloween-themed bash tricks and treats visitors of all ages with seasonal games, food, live entertainment, and a tasty trunk-or-treat.

Sturgis

Although the western South Dakota town of Sturgis is best known for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which draws in visitors from all over the country each August, it is also a beautiful autumn trip destination. Each September, lovers of all things apple and pumpkin can attend the Fall Festival and Oktoberfest, which features live music, kids' activities, seasonal cuisine, and its popular Stein Crawl. If you just want to enjoy the autumnal spectrum of colors without the crowd, take a drive along the scenic Vanocker Canyon Loop. For tourists in the mood for an autumn adventure, take a hike up the Black Elk Peak trail at pretty Sylvan Lake, and feast your eyes on a colorful panoramic view from the top. You can also visit Spearfish Canyon or, if you prefer a more relaxed tour of the local fall foliage, drive down one of the many scenic byways to take in the crimson and gold hues of the towering aspen and birch trees along the route.

Conclusion

If you're looking for the best state to take a fall trip to, put picturesque South Dakota at the top of your must-see list. The famous Black Hills is the number one reason people visit the state, but there are many more state and local parks, lakes, canyons, and welcoming small towns awaiting your exploration this autumn. In addition, you'll find festive fall events, pumpkin patches, and apples orchards to check out every day throughout the months of September, October, and November.