The City of Pierre is inviting residents to experience a new outdoor destination with the opening of the Missouri Overlook Trail, a scenic natural-surface trail that offers panoramic views of the Missouri River and the City of Pierre while providing a new destination for walking, hiking, and mountain biking.
Located on the east side of Pierre at the corner of Roosevelt Avenue and Humboldt Street, the Missouri Overlook Trail features approximately 2.5 to 3 miles of winding trail, depending on the route users choose through its interconnected loops. Unlike many of Pierre’s existing recreational trails along the Missouri River, the Missouri Overlook Trail offers rolling terrain, elevation changes, and scenic overlooks that give visitors a new perspective of Pierre’s landscape.
The trail was professionally designed by Trail Arts and trail designer Dave Dessel with the goal of creating a trail that serves riders and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Construction was completed by City of Pierre Parks Department staff in 2025. The project was a collaborative effort between the City of Pierre Parks and Recreation Department, the Park and Recreation Board, the Oahe Wheelmen Bike Club, and Trail Arts. Funding assistance was provided through a $25,000 grant from the South Dakota Department of Health’s Division of Family and Community Health. Approximately $16,000 of the grant was used for trail design and trail markers.
“The Missouri Overlook Trail gives residents another opportunity to get outside and experience Pierre from a different perspective,” said Parks and Recreation Director Bryan Tipton. “Whether you’re riding a bike, going for a walk, or simply looking for a new place to explore, this trail offers scenic overlooks, changing terrain, and opportunities to enjoy wildlife without leaving city limits.” The trail expands recreational opportunities for residents on the east side of Garfield Avenue by providing convenient access to outdoor recreation closer to home. It offers a low- or no-cost opportunity for people to get outside, be active, and experience natural terrain without having to cross major roadways to reach existing parks or trails. The addition also helps reduce pressure on the heavily used Lewis & Clark Recreation Trail and LaFramboise Island trail system while expanding recreation opportunities for nearby neighborhoods.
Beyond recreation, the Missouri Overlook Trail supports the City’s long-term goal of creating accessible outdoor spaces that encourage healthy lifestyles. By providing another place to walk, hike, and ride, the trail promotes physical activity while allowing residents and visitors to experience Pierre’s natural beauty and wildlife without leaving city limits. Visitors should note that on the southwest portion of the trail, users will need to cross the cemetery entrance road to reconnect with the final section leading back to the parking area. Trail users are encouraged to use caution when crossing the roadway and to share the trail courteously with others. The City of Pierre encourages residents and visitors to explore the Missouri Overlook Trail and discover one of the community’s newest recreational amenities.
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