South Dakota may not be the first state that comes to mind for skiing, but it offers a few resorts worth exploring. One popular resort is Terry Peak Ski Area, located in the Black Hills. It boasts an average snowfall of 150 inches per season and a vertical drop of 1,100 feet. The best time to visit is typically January or February. Another resort in the area is Deer Mountain Ski Resort, which offers a variety of terrain and an average snowfall of 100 inches per season. Further east in the state, Great Bear Ski Valley in Sioux Falls offers skiing and snowboarding on 220 acres with an average snowfall of 80 inches per season. The best time to visit is typically December through February. South Dakota doesn't typically have the deep snowpacks of other ski destinations, with most resorts reporting a base depth of 24-36 inches. However, the smaller crowds and lower prices can make it an appealing option for those looking for a more low-key ski vacation. One interesting piece of ski history in South Dakota is the Homestake Gold Mine, which operated for over 125 years and was once the largest and deepest gold mine in North America. The mine was also home to a ski club, which used the mine's tram system to transport skiers to the top of the mountain for some of the earliest skiing in the state. Today, the mine has been converted into a research facility, but visitors can still take tours and learn about its ski history.