Custer State Park is a 71,000-acre state park in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It's known for its scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreational activities.

Custer State Park is a wildlife reserve in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It is South Dakota's largest and first state park, named after Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer. /n The park covers an area of over 71,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, mountain goats, and elk. The park also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and scenic drives.

Custer State Park is a wildlife reserve in the Black Hills.

This iconic sculpture features the faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. It's a must-see for any visitor to the Black Hills.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a massive sculpture carved into the Black Hills region of South Dakota. It features the faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. /n The monument was created by Gutzon Borglum and his son, Lincoln Borglum. It took 14 years to complete, from 1927 to 1941. The monument is a symbol of American history and is visited by millions of tourists each year.

Mount Rushmore is a massive sculpture carved into the Black Hills region.

A monument under construction on privately held land in the Black Hills, in honor of the Oglala Lakota warrior, Crazy Horse.

Crazy Horse Memorial is a mountain monument under construction in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The monument is being carved out of Thunderhead Mountain and will depict the Oglala Lakota warrior, Crazy Horse. /n The monument was commissioned by Henry Standing Bear, a Lakota elder, to be sculpted by Korczak Ziolkowski. Work on the monument began in 1948 and is still ongoing. Once completed, it will be the world's largest mountain carving.

Crazy Horse Memorial is a mountain monument under construction.

The third longest cave in the world, featuring a variety of cave tours below the surface.

Jewel Cave National Monument, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is the third longest cave in the world. The cave is known for its calcite crystals, which give it its name. /n The monument offers guided tours of the cave, where visitors can see the stunning calcite formations and learn about the cave's geology and history. The monument also has a variety of hiking trails and picnic areas.

Jewel Cave National Monument is the third longest cave in the world.

One of the oldest national parks in the United States, known for its extensive cave network and diverse wildlife.

Wind Cave National Park, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is known for its extensive cave system, which is one of the longest in the world. /n The park covers an area of over 33,000 acres and is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and pronghorns. The park offers guided tours of the cave, as well as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Wind Cave National Park is known for its extensive cave system.

A 22-mile journey through limestone palisades and deciduous forests, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls, wildlife, and the unique beauty of the Black Hills.

The Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is a 19-mile drive that offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region. As you drive along the byway, you'll be surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and a diverse array of wildlife. /n The byway is also home to several hiking trails, each offering a unique perspective of the canyon's beauty. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, there's a trail for everyone. Along the way, you'll also find several picnic areas, perfect for a lunch break amidst nature. /n The byway is not just about nature, it's also steeped in history. It was once a trail used by Native Americans and later by gold miners during the Black Hills Gold Rush. Today, it's a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy its natural beauty and tranquility. Whether you're driving, biking, or hiking, the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is a journey you won't soon forget.

A picturesque drive through the heart of the Black Hills, offering stunning views and unique geological features.

A historic city known for its gold rush history, preserved 19th-century architecture, and modern casinos.

Deadwood is a historic city in South Dakota known for its gold rush history. The entire city is a National Historic Landmark due to its well-preserved gold rush era architecture. /n The city offers a glimpse into the past with its historic buildings, museums, and the Mount Moriah Cemetery, where several famous figures from the Old West are buried. The city also offers a variety of entertainment options, including casinos, shows, and concerts.

Deadwood is a historic city known for its gold rush history.

An historic gold mine offering underground tours and gold panning experiences.

Broken Boot Gold Mine, located in Deadwood, South Dakota, offers underground tours of an authentic gold mine that operated from 1878 to 1904. /n During the tour, visitors can learn about the history of gold mining in the Black Hills, see the conditions that miners worked in, and even try their hand at panning for gold. The mine is named after a boot that was found in the mine, which had been broken and discarded by a miner.

Broken Boot Gold Mine offers underground tours of an authentic gold mine.

A national park known for its dramatic landscapes, including layered rock formations, deep canyons, and towering spires.

Badlands National Park is a national park in South Dakota known for its unique geological formations and abundant wildlife. The park features dramatic landscapes, including rugged cliffs, deep canyons, and towering spires. /n The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and coyotes. Visitors can explore the park's many hiking trails, take part in ranger-led programs, or simply enjoy the stunning views from the park's many overlooks.

A national park known for its unique geological formations and abundant wildlife.

A famous tourist stop offering shopping, dining, and various attractions including a backyard area with historical exhibits.

Wall Drug Store, located in Wall, South Dakota, is a sprawling, cowboy-themed complex of shopping and entertainment. Known for its free ice water and 5 cent coffee, the store offers a variety of goods and services, from Western wear and books to homemade donuts and a chapel. /n The store has grown from a small pharmacy, opened in 1931 by Ted Hustead, into a multi-building complex that attracts over two million visitors each year. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy a meal in the Western Art Gallery Restaurant, explore the Backyard, which features a variety of historical and educational exhibits, or take a break in the Traveler's Chapel. The store also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, book signings, and holiday celebrations.

Wall Drug Store, located in Wall, South Dakota, is a sprawling, cowboy-themed complex of shopping and entertainment.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Black Hills, South Dakota. This region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as fishing and boating in serene lakes. Explore the iconic Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and the historic town of Deadwood. Venture into the depths of Jewel Cave, the third-longest cave in the world, or marvel at the majestic landscapes of Custer State Park, home to a diverse range of wildlife. Experience the rich Native American heritage at the sacred Bear Butte or immerse yourself in the Wild West history. The Black Hills promises an unforgettable journey through nature, history, and culture.

Custer State Park

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Start your day with a hike through the serene trails of Custer State Park. Enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful scenery of the Black Hills.

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of Custer State Park. Pack a lunch from a local deli.

Visit the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Take time to appreciate the grandeur of this historic monument.

Have dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional South Dakota cuisine.

Relax at your hotel or explore the local nightlife in downtown Rapid City.

Exploring Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore

Crazy Horse Memorial

Jewel Cave National Monument

Start your day with a visit to the Crazy Horse Memorial. Learn about the history and culture of the Native American tribes of the Black Hills.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant offering a variety of cuisines.

Explore the Jewel Cave National Monument, one of the longest caves in the world.

Take a leisurely stroll around the town of Custer.

Crazy Horse Memorial and Jewel Cave

Wind Cave National Park

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

Begin your day with a visit to the Wind Cave National Park. Explore the unique cave formations and wildlife.

Take a scenic drive through the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. Enjoy the stunning views of the Black Hills.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Spearfish.

Relax at your hotel or explore the local nightlife in Spearfish.

Wind Cave National Park and Spearfish Canyon

Deadwood

Broken Boot Gold Mine

Start your day with a visit to the historic town of Deadwood. Explore the town's rich history and architecture.

Have lunch at a local restaurant in Deadwood.

Visit the Broken Boot Gold Mine and try your hand at gold panning.

Dine at a local restaurant in Deadwood.

Take a leisurely stroll around the historic town of Deadwood.

Historic Deadwood and Gold Panning

Badlands National Park

Wall Drug Store

Begin your day with a visit to the Badlands National Park. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Explore the Wall Drug Store, a unique shopping experience in the town of Wall.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Wall.

Relax at your hotel or end your trip with a visit to a local pub.

Badlands National Park and Wall Drug Store

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November; note: the 50 united states cover six time zones

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Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to get around in The Black Hills. There are several car rental agencies available at the Rapid City Regional Airport and in the city of Rapid City itself. This gives you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace.

Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in The Black Hills, particularly in the larger towns and cities like Rapid City. This can be a convenient option for short trips or if you prefer not to drive.

The Black Hills are famous for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and many visitors enjoy exploring the area by motorcycle. There are several motorcycle rental companies in the area, offering a range of bikes to suit different skill levels.

Public transportation in The Black Hills is limited, but Rapid City does have a public bus system, RapidRide, which can be useful for getting around the city. However, it's less practical for exploring the wider Black Hills area.

For the more active traveler, renting a bicycle can be a great way to get around. The Black Hills has many bike trails, including the 109-mile Mickelson Trail. Bike rental shops are available in several towns throughout the area.

Taxis are available in the larger towns and cities in The Black Hills, such as Rapid City and Deadwood. They can be a convenient option for short trips.

There are numerous guided tour operators in The Black Hills offering a range of tours, from sightseeing bus tours to more specialized options like jeep tours and horseback tours. This can be a great way to see the sights without the hassle of driving.

Several hotels and attractions in The Black Hills offer shuttle services. For example, some hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial offers a shuttle service from the parking area to the monument.

For those who prefer a home-on-wheels experience, RV rentals are available. The Black Hills has numerous RV parks and campgrounds, making it a popular choice for visitors who want to combine their accommodation and transport.

A staple in the Black Hills, Bison Steak is a lean and flavorful meat that is often grilled or broiled. It's a must-try for meat lovers visiting the area.

Bison Steak

Chislic is a traditional South Dakotan dish made of cubed red meat, usually lamb, venison, or beef, which is deep-fried or grilled. It's a popular snack in the Black Hills region.

Chislic

Kuchen is the official state dessert of South Dakota. It's a sweet custard pie with a cake-like crust, often filled with fruit such as apples, cherries, or peaches.

Kuchen

Indian Tacos are a fusion of Native American and Mexican cuisine, featuring fry bread topped with ground beef, beans, cheese, and other taco fixings. They're a popular dish in the Black Hills region due to the area's rich Native American heritage.

Indian Tacos

Pheasant is a game bird that's popular in the Black Hills region. It's often roasted or grilled and served with a variety of sides.

Pheasant

Wall Drug Store, located in the Black Hills, is famous for its homemade cake donuts. They're a must-try for any visitor to the area.

Wall Drug Donuts

Rushmore Bitter is a locally brewed beer in the Black Hills region. It's a traditional English-style bitter with a smooth, malty flavor.

Rushmore Bitter

Buffalo Berry Wine is a unique local wine made from the buffalo berries that grow in the Black Hills region. It has a sweet, tart flavor that's unlike any other wine.

Buffalo Berry Wine

Chokecherry Wine is another local wine made from chokecherries, a type of berry that grows in the Black Hills. It's a sweet wine with a tart edge.

Chokecherry Wine

South Dakota Honey Ale is a beer brewed with local honey from the Black Hills region. It has a sweet, floral flavor that's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

South Dakota Honey Ale

Wild Plum Mead is a traditional honey wine made with wild plums from the Black Hills region. It's a sweet, fruity drink that's perfect for sipping on a warm day.

Wild Plum Mead

Rhubarb Wine is a unique local wine made from rhubarb grown in the Black Hills region. It has a sweet, tart flavor that's perfect for pairing with a meal or enjoying on its own.

Rhubarb Wine

New Year's Day

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Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Presidents' Day

Memorial Day

Juneteenth

Independence Day

Labor Day

Columbus Day

Veterans Day (substitute)

Veterans Day

Thanksgiving Day

Christmas Day

Iconic sculpture carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore.

Mountain monument under construction on privately held land in the Black Hills.

Rugged beauty of layered rock formations, deep canyons and towering spires.

One of the oldest national parks in the United States, known for its extensive cave network.

A state park and wildlife reserve in the Black Hills.

An astounding geologic feature that protrudes out of the prairie surrounding the Black Hills.

Devils Tower National Monument

Preserves the last remaining Minuteman II ICBM system in the United States.

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

A cowboy-themed shopping mall consisting of a drug store, gift shop, restaurants and various other stores.

Historic city known for its gold rush history.

Badlands Loop Road through the Yellow Mounds area of Badlands National Park

Iron Mountain Road 16a pigtail turn between Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore

The Black Hills region experiences four distinct seasons, so pack accordingly. Summers can be hot (up to 90°F/32°C), while winters can be very cold (down to -10°F/-23°C).

The area is known for sudden weather changes. Always carry a jacket or sweater, even in the summer.

The Black Hills are located in a mountainous region. If you're not used to high altitudes, take time to acclimate to prevent altitude sickness.

The Black Hills are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bison. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals.

The region is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Make sure to bring appropriate gear if you plan on participating in these activities.

The Black Hills are located in a rural area. Cell phone service can be spotty, so plan accordingly.

The area is rich in Native American history. Respect all cultural and historical sites.

The Black Hills region is known for its scenic drives. Consider renting a car to fully experience the area.

The area has a low crime rate, but always take standard precautions to protect your belongings.

The Black Hills region is not heavily populated, so services like food and gas can be few and far between. Plan your route and stops accordingly.

The Black Hills are located in the Mountain Time Zone.

The area is known for its local cuisine, including buffalo and game meats. Be sure to try some local dishes.

The Black Hills region has a high risk of forest fires in the summer. Follow all fire safety guidelines and restrictions.

The area has a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to campgrounds. Book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

The Black Hills region is home to several national and state parks. Remember to follow all park rules and regulations.

The area is known for its unique geology. Be careful when exploring rocky areas, as they can be slippery and dangerous.

The Black Hills region is a popular destination for motorcyclists, especially during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Be aware of increased traffic during this time.

The Black Hills region has a number of hot springs. Always check the temperature before entering, as they can be extremely hot.

The area is known for its dark skies, making it a great place for stargazing. Bring a telescope if you have one.

The Black Hills region has a rich mining history. Be cautious around old mine sites, as they can be dangerous.

January is the coldest month in The Black Hills, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time for winter sports, but make sure to pack warm clothes.

February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. It's a good time for those who enjoy the winter scenery without the extreme cold of January.

March sees the start of spring with temperatures rising, but there can still be some snowfall. It's a good time for hiking and exploring the beautiful landscapes.

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. The snow has usually melted by this time, making it a great month for outdoor activities.

May brings warmer temperatures and the start of the tourist season. The weather is ideal for sightseeing and exploring the national parks.

June is the start of summer with long, sunny days. It's a perfect time for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

July is the hottest month in The Black Hills. It's a great time for water activities, but remember to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

August is still quite hot, but temperatures start to drop slightly towards the end of the month. It's a good time for wildlife viewing and star gazing.

September sees the start of fall with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for photography and scenic drives.

October is a cool month with temperatures dropping, but the fall colors are at their peak. It's a good time for hiking and enjoying the autumn scenery.

November is a cold month with the start of the winter season. It's a good time for indoor activities and enjoying the winter landscapes.

December is a very cold month with snowfall. It's a great time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, but make sure to pack warm clothes.

The Black Hills of South Dakota is a region with a varied climate, so it's important to be prepared for different weather conditions. 

In general, the summer months from June to August are the warmest, with temperatures often reaching up to 85°F (29°C). However, it's not uncommon for temperatures to drop significantly in the evenings, so it's advisable to pack layers. 

The spring and fall seasons are typically mild, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 70°F (7°C to 21°C). These seasons can also be quite wet, so be sure to pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella. 

Winter in the Black Hills, from December to February, can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, around 20°F (-6°C). Snowfall is common during these months, making it a great time for winter sports like skiing or snowboarding. However, if you're not a fan of the cold, it might be best to plan your visit for a different time of year. 

Regardless of when you visit, the weather in the Black Hills can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast regularly and be prepared for a variety of conditions. 

In terms of activities, the weather can impact what you're able to do. For example, hiking and wildlife viewing are best in the warmer months, while winter is perfect for snow-based activities. 

Remember, the higher you go in elevation, the cooler the temperatures will be, so if you're planning on visiting Mount Rushmore or Harney Peak, be sure to pack extra layers, even in the summer. 

Finally, always stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. The dry climate can dehydrate you quickly, and the sun can be quite strong, especially in the summer months. 

Enjoy your visit to the beautiful Black Hills!

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5-Day Solo Outdoor Adventure and Relaxation in Black Hills

About The Black Hills, South Dakota