La Framboise Island

For an unfurgettable outing with Fido in South Dakota's capital, hit the LaFramboise Island Trail! This 7-mile path in Pierre will take you and your pooch around a unique location with an interesting history: the LaFramboise Island Nature Area along the Missouri River.

Connected to downtown Pierre by a causeway, the scenic LaFramboise Island was called “Bad Humor” by Lewis and Clark due to an unpleasant encounter with the Teton Sioux in the western portion of the island. Years later, LaFramboise Island became the site of a small saw mill and parts of it were also farmed; you and Fido should be able to see traces of these activities as you explore the area.

Today, LaFramboise Island is a peaceful site that is home to a myriad of wildlife and bird species thanks to its lush trees and meadows. Expect to see wild turkeys and deer as you and your pup make your way among the native cottonwoods, cedar, ash, and Russian olives. Terns and bald eagles, while not as common, have been spotted on the island as well.

With an even dirt surface, the LaFramboise Island Trail makes for an easy hike that's suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. It is broken up into smaller loops including the River, Forest, and Prairie Trails, so you can customize the length of your walk. Wherever you go, the paths are wide and well-maintained, and benches for resting and enjoying the view can be found along the way.

Other amenities in the area include a picnic shelter, boat ramp, fishing dock, and vault toilets. Drinking water is available at the trailhead in case you forget to bring your own. One thing that you shouldn't leave at home, though, are doggie waste bags for cleaning up after your furry pal. Enjoy a bit of history by the river when you and Fido take on the LaFramboise Island Trail!