Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve Trail

South Dakota

1 Reviews

The Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve is a lovely 1500-acre park and historical site, situated along the Missouri River just to the west of North Sioux City. One of the main attractions of the site is its looping system of crushed-limestone trails, which allow cyclists and pedestrians (as well as cross-country skiers during winter months) to explore the pristine, wooded landscape around Mud Lake and the Missouri River.

The trail makes for the perfect opportunity for birdwatchers and other wildlife enthusiasts to get up close and personal with the variety of animals that inhabit the prairies and forests within the park, while families can picnic near the visitor center before hitting the trails. The trail is also accessible from the North Sioux City/McCook Lake Trail, which connects all the way in to the heart of the small community of North Sioux City, allowing residents and visitors to take advantage of the natural beauty provided within the Adams Nature Preserve without the need of a car for transportation.

Parking and Trail Access

Parking and restrooms are available at the park entrance and visitor center, located off of Westshore Drive about a half-mile south of Northshore Drive, east from Interstate 29 off of exit 4.

Lots of wildlife

June 2020 aparrott58

If you are in the area on business or pleasure, this trail is worth it. We started at the nice visitor center where there is plenty of parking. The trail is crushed gravel and wide enough for side by side riding. We saw lots of wildlife, including turkeys (over 2 dozen), waterfowl, garter snakes and doe/fawns (still in spots). In addition, the closer you get to the big river, there are a number of old growth cottonwood groves w/ some of the largest cottonwoods we have seen. There are a couple of viewing platforms near the river and the trail has curves and some short hills. Just a nice evening ride. Also, ride in a figure eight to add more miles and see the groves twice!