Day Trips from the Yankton Lake House.
The Yankton Lake House at Lewis and Clark Lake is a great place to have an autumn adventure. It's starting soon, one of the great acts of nature, the leaves beginning to turn into yellow, orange and deep crimson reds. Autumn's Royal Flush. Nature flushes in full vibrant color and you do not want to miss it's peak. Set the Lake House as your center for some awesome day trips around the Midwest to experience this nature show before the sleepy winter days close in.
Yankton: Your Autumn Oasis
Before hitting the road, take a moment to soak in the natural beauty that surrounds Yankton itself. The area around Lewis and Clark Lake comes alive in autumn, with the golden hues of cottonwoods and maples reflecting off the still waters. Explore the Gavin's Point Recreation Area on foot, or relax by the lake or on the deck with a cozy blanket and a warm drink as you watch the leaves fall. The crisp air and peaceful atmosphere make this the perfect starting and ending point for your autumn adventures.
Day Trip #1: Nebraska’s Niobrara Scenic River
A short drive south brings you to Nebraska’s Niobrara Scenic River, where the wide-open prairies meet vibrant clusters of trees that blaze in shades of red, orange, and gold. This is the perfect day trip for those seeking serenity amidst nature’s splendor. Hike along the riverbanks or take a scenic drive through the rolling hills, where you’ll encounter hidden valleys and breathtaking views. Pack a picnic to enjoy in Ponca State Park, another gem along your route, before heading back to the Lake House as the sun sets.
Day Trip #2: Iowa’s Loess Hills
Just across the Missouri River to the southeast lie the Loess Hills of Iowa, a unique and underappreciated gem that transforms into a painter’s palette during the fall. The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway is an ideal route for leaf peeping, offering miles of winding roads through golden fields and colorful forests. Spend the day exploring the hills, stopping at overlooks for panoramic views of the Missouri River Valley. Be sure to bring your camera—every turn reveals a new burst of color.
With Yankton as your center, you can enjoy the best of autumn from the comfort of The Lake House, knowing that breathtaking destinations are just a drive away.
Day Trip #3: South Dakota’s Missouri River Bluffs
To the north, South Dakota’s Missouri River Bluffs offer a stunning contrast of steep cliffs, dense forests, and sweeping river views. Drive along Highway 50, where the bluffs become ablaze with the colors of autumn, and stop at scenic lookouts to take it all in. For those who enjoy hiking, Spirit Mound Historic Prairie is a nearby trail that offers both history and beauty, with its wide vistas of the surrounding countryside. After a day of adventure, the short drive back to your Yankton haven at the Lake House feels like returning to your autumn retreat. Fireside S'mores anyone?
Day Trip #4: The Black Hills Adventure
For those looking to venture a bit further afield, a day trip west to the Black Hills is a must. Though it’s a longer drive, the reward is a kaleidoscope of colors in one of South Dakota’s most iconic regions. Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, with its towering limestone cliffs and rushing waterfalls, is particularly stunning in autumn. The winding roads lead you through dense groves of aspen and birch trees, which shimmer in gold and orange.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended autumn retreat, the beauty of Yankton and its surrounding regions ensures that every day trip brings a new flush of color and a fresh perspective on the season’s magic. It just so happens that the Lake House makes a perfect center of activity from our family to yours.
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