DeAnn Echols worked part time for years before excitedly purchasing the Great Outdoor Store (GOS) in 1999.
“I like to describe us as an outdoor lifestyle store. Yes, we do carry camping and climbing equipment, but we also have great sportswear and footwear for just hanging out at home,” she said.
Located in the Historic Rock Island Depot, Echols wants GOS to allow customers to feel comfortable in the outdoors with all of their activities.
“We are proud that most of our brands have a great sustainability story and really care about our land and outdoor spaces of all kinds,” she said.
Learn about one of the faces behind the shop.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE PLACES IN SOUTH DAKOTA TO SPEND TIME OUTSIDE?
My husband and I love the southern Black Hills and have taken so many camping and hiking trips there. It is such a special place to us. We also just love walking at our local outdoor trails. Great Bear Ski Valley, Good Earth State Park, and Tuthill Park are all great, quick places to take a nature walk.
WHAT’S A BRAND THAT YOU SWEAR BY?
My go-to brand has always been Patagonia. They make such great quality products that last forever and wear so well no matter how you use them. I have had pieces from them that are older than I care to admit, but I still love them! I think that’s what speaks to a great brand: Quality, longevity, and recyclable. They have it all.
WHERE ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE PLACES TO STOP WHEN YOU’RE DOWNTOWN?
I love shopping at all the cute boutiques downtown. Terra Shepard Boutique & Apothecary is amazing. I also love Sticks and Steel and Simply Perfect. We have a nice, diverse selection of shops and restaurants downtown. There is really something for everyone.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE RECREATIONAL ACTIVITY?
Our favorite activity next to travel is probably hiking. We love to visit our National parks and have taken several hiking trips to Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks.
HOW DO YOU SPEND RAINY DAYS?
I don’t usually let the rain stop me from doing whatever, I just dress for the rain. But if I’m just hanging out and relaxing, I love to read, bake, or just hang out with my husband watching movies.
