Key Highlights
- South Dakota is the only state in the lower 48 of the United States that has never had Amtrak service.
- Right now, there are no working intercity passenger train stations in the state. The last regular service stopped in 1969.
- If you want to see the Black Hills by train, you can go on the 1880 Train. This steam train gives a nice ride through the hills.
- Rail lines for freight, like the Rapid City, Pierre & Eastern Railroad, run in South Dakota.
- Sioux Falls and Rapid City do not have passenger rail lines that connect them to other places in the country.
Introduction
Welcome to your travel guide for getting around the unique railway system in South Dakota. Are you thinking about taking a trip and want to know about train travel? You should know that South Dakota is different from other states in the United States. It is the only state in the lower 48 that has never had service from Amtrak. The last passenger trains left South Dakota almost 50 years ago. This creates a different way to travel, and you should keep this in mind when you plan your visit.
Exploring Train Travel in South Dakota
You will not find a regular intercity passenger train in South Dakota. But you can still feel the special vibe of the rails. The story of railroads here is full of different things. There are busy freight trains moving goods. At the same time, there is no Amtrak service that will take you between big cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City.
This guide will help you see what is out there. You will find out about the freight train lines that are very important in South Dakota. You will also get to know about a fun scenic railway in the Black Hills. This train ride lets you travel back in time as you go through the beautiful hills.
Active Train Stations and Major Rail Lines
If you’re looking for an active Amtrak depot in South Dakota, you won’t find one. The state currently has no intercity passenger rail service. The last routes, which served cities like Mitchell, SD, and Aberdeen, ceased operations before Amtrak was even established. This makes South Dakota unique among the lower 48 states.
However, the state’s rails are far from empty. A robust network of freight lines crisscrosses the region, operated by several railroad companies. These lines are vital to the state’s economy, even though they don’t carry passengers. The Rapid City, Pierre & Eastern Railroad (RCP&E) is a major operator on the line passing through the state capital.
Below is a look at some of the key rail operators in South Dakota.
| Operator Type | Name |
|---|---|
| Freight Rail | Rapid City, Pierre & Eastern Railroad (RCP&E) |
| Freight Rail | BNSF Railway |
| Freight Rail | Dakota Southern Railway |
| Scenic Passenger Rail | Black Hills Central Railroad (1880 Train) |
Historic and Scenic Railway Experiences
If you want to have a train ride to remember in South Dakota, you can try the Black Hills Central Railroad. People know it by another name too—the 1880 Train. On this train, you get to ride on a steam train and travel through a beautiful part of south dakota. It is fun for people who love history or who just want to see the Black Hills.
This old railway gives you a real old-style ride. Trains leave from Hill City and Keystone. On the way, you see the famous Black Hills. These are near some big sights. If you want to take a rail trip in dakota as a visitor, this is the main way to do it.
Key features of the 1880 Train include:
- An authentic steam train ride.
- Departures from Hill City and Keystone.
- A scenic route through the Black Hills.
- Proximity to Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial.
Conclusion
To sum up, riding the train in South Dakota is a great way to see the state’s beautiful views and learn about its past. There are working train stations and fun railway trips, so there is something for all kinds of travelers. If you love the history or you just want a good adventure, you will find that the railways in South Dakota bring both ease and a special touch to your trip. You can find many new and hidden spots by taking the train tracks. If you want help or have questions about planning your visit, you can always ask for a free talk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Amtrak operate any train routes in South Dakota?
No, Amtrak does not run any trains or have stations in South Dakota. This is the only state in the lower 48 of the United States without Amtrak service. The last passenger train in Dakota stopped running in 1969. This happened two years before Amtrak started. Since then, no new Amtrak routes have come to South Dakota.
Are there tourist trains or scenic railways visitors can enjoy in South Dakota?
Yes, you can have a great train ride in South Dakota. The Black Hills Central Railroad, also called the 1880 Train, is a well-known tourist train in the area. It gives you rides on a steam train that starts from a historic depot. The train moves through the pretty Black Hills in south dakota. You can leave from Hill City or Keystone, and go on a trip that takes you back in time.
What are the main freight and passenger rail connections available in South Dakota?
South Dakota has some main freight rail lines. These include the Rapid City, Pierre & Eastern Railroad and BNSF Railway. But, there is not any intercity passenger rail you can use. The only time people in South Dakota can ride a train as a passenger is on the Black Hills Central Railroad. This is a fun scenic route for tourists, not for getting to another city.