Review
Intro
Sica Hollow is a scenic, wooded state park in the northeast corner of South Dakota, with 15 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The Sioux Indians called the area "sica", meaning evil or bad, believing that the reddish water in the springs was the blood of their ancestors (it's actually because of the minerals in the water). Over time, the rumors have grown to include Bigfoot sightings and mysterious disappearances in quicksand. But don't let that stop you from visiting - the park is peaceful and beautiful with babbling brooks, small waterfalls, and abundant wildflowers.
What Makes It Great
Though the legends of Sica Hollow State Park are widely contested, one thing everyone agrees on is that the park is a beautiful and unique place in South Dakota. There are two main trails to choose from, though there are many intersections that will give you the option to shorten or lengthen your trek.
The Sica Hollow Horse Trail is the longer trail, at 15 miles, and is open to hikers, bikers, and (you guessed it!) horses. It traverses the park from the north to south rim, running through a variety of habitats from a wildflower-filled prairie to wetlands with small crustaceans and minnows. The trail dips in and out of wooded gullies, with an amazing view of the entire park at the high point. Sitting at the western-most edge of the Eastern Hardwood forest, there are more than 200+ plants throughout the park, some that are considered rare in the state.
The 0.5-mile interpretive trail, Trail of the Spirits, has been a Registered National Recreation Trail since 1971. It's a little hilly, but the path is smooth and is for hiking only. The self-guided walking tour heads through a thick canopy of ironwood, elm, oak, and maple trees and across rustic bridges over icy creeks. Learn about the history of the area as you look for wild roses and listen for the gurgling bogs and rapidly moving streams in the spring.
Who is Going to Love It
Sica Hollow's trails can be enjoyed by the whole family, and is a wonderful place for hiking, biking, riding horses, and bird watching. Hobby botanists will love trying to identify all of the different types of plants found throughout the park, and those who appreciate Native American history can learn a lot about the area on the interpretive trail.
There are eight campsites if you want to spend the weekend exploring the park. If you love a good ghost story, there is plenty to talk about around the campfire!
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
Though the address is 44950 Park Road in Sisseton, South Dakota, Sica Hollow State Park is actually 15 miles northwest of Sisseton, off Highway 10.
Cell phone service may be spotty throughout the park, and bring plenty of water if you are heading out on the Sica Hollow Horse Trail.
