Des Moines to Sioux Falls: Road Trip Guide & Distance

207.8 miles 334.5 km · straight line
259.8 miles estimated 418.1 km · driving distance
5h 14min estimated drive time
$25 - $31 estimated fuel cost
~55min flight time
312° NW bearing direction

How far is Des Moines from Sioux Falls?

The distance from Des Moines to Sioux Falls is 207.8 miles (334.5 km) as the crow flies. Sioux Falls is located NW of Des Moines. By car, the driving distance is approximately 259.8 miles, taking about 5h 14min. A direct flight would take roughly 55min. Both are located in United States — Des Moines in Iowa and Sioux Falls in South Dakota.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare.

Coordinates come from public place data for Des Moines and Sioux Falls. The driving distance is estimated from straight-line distance with a road-factor model, so confirm the route in your navigation app. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Des Moines to Sioux Falls

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 14min $25 - $31 Flexible stops
Fly ~55min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 17min $21–$39* Budget
Train ~4h 58min $31–$91* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Des Moines & Sioux Falls

Quick Facts

Des Moines
41.59°N, 93.63°W
America/Chicago
291m elevation
Sioux Falls
43.54°N, 96.73°W
America/Chicago
448m elevation
Explore more routes from Sioux Falls

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 69 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 17 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 119.8 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients