In the extreme northeast corner of South Dakota, there is a state park with a forest that has an almost mystical feeling to it. Taking a hike through this place will almost make you feel like you are in a different dimension. The quietness of it as well as the surrounding, dense trees will completely cut you off from the outside, allowing you to fully immerse yourself. It is really a one of a kind experience. But there is more to this park than meets the eye…
Located near Sisseton, South Dakota, this state park is known as Sica Hollow.
Angela Smith/Flickr The meaning of Sica is “evil” or “bad,” given to it by the original Native Americans that called it home. It gained this name through a legend known now as the Legend of Sica Hollow.
If you follow the Trail of Spirits, you may feel the lingering presence of this story.
Angela Smith/Flickr This is the most popular trail in the state, and while it is beautiful, many people have said they felt an eerie feeling, especially while being alone in the forest.
Angela Smith/Flickr The legend says that the reddish streams that can be found in the park were red from the blood of their ancestors. A more in-depth legend tells the story of a presence that came to a tribe in the Hollow and scared the tribe members. He would not leave, and taught the young men of the tribe to kill. Seeking the help of the Great Spirit, or Wakantanka, the Medicine Man of the tribe asked Wakantanka what should be done. A messenger known as a Thunderer, a bird figure, was sent down. They seized Hand even as he tried to run using the vines and roots of the forest and destroyed him, but also raised the water of the Hollow and left only one member of the tribe to escape.
After that, the spirits of those and specifically of the evils of Hand are said to linger in this forest yet.
Despite these legends, Sica Hollow is still known for its gorgeous, dense trees and serene surroundings.
Angela Smith/Flickr
You never know what you may find along the trails, but you can be sure to discover the natural beauty from the sights alone.
Angela Smith/Flickr
Today, many people who visit the park enjoy hiking, horseback riding, camping, and even cross country skiing during the winter months.
Angela Smith/Flickr
And this time of the year it is especially breathtaking, when the forest is alight with the colors of autumn.
Martha F/Tripadvisor
Want to learn more? Visit the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks site for their page on this state park.
Angela Smith/Flickr
The meaning of Sica is “evil” or “bad,” given to it by the original Native Americans that called it home. It gained this name through a legend known now as the Legend of Sica Hollow.
This is the most popular trail in the state, and while it is beautiful, many people have said they felt an eerie feeling, especially while being alone in the forest.
The legend says that the reddish streams that can be found in the park were red from the blood of their ancestors. A more in-depth legend tells the story of a presence that came to a tribe in the Hollow and scared the tribe members. He would not leave, and taught the young men of the tribe to kill. Seeking the help of the Great Spirit, or Wakantanka, the Medicine Man of the tribe asked Wakantanka what should be done. A messenger known as a Thunderer, a bird figure, was sent down. They seized Hand even as he tried to run using the vines and roots of the forest and destroyed him, but also raised the water of the Hollow and left only one member of the tribe to escape.
After that, the spirits of those and specifically of the evils of Hand are said to linger in this forest yet.
Martha F/Tripadvisor
Despite the dark past this forest may possess, this place is truly lovely in person, and fall is the best time of the year to visit it. If you want to check out some of the other best stops for fall viewing in this state, click here for our South Dakota Fall Foliage Road Trip.
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