South Dakota Summer: Unveiling the Hidden Gems of the Mount Rushmore State

Why is South Dakota a must-visit destination. What makes Badlands National Park unique. How can you experience Native American culture in South Dakota. What are the top attractions in the Mount Rushmore State. When is the best time to visit South Dakota.

The Allure of South Dakota: A State Often Overlooked

South Dakota, nestled in the heart of America’s Midwest, is a state that often flies under the radar of many travelers. However, this hidden gem offers a wealth of experiences that can rival those of its more famous counterparts. From breathtaking natural wonders to rich cultural heritage, South Dakota is a destination that deserves a spot on every adventurer’s bucket list.

With less than one million residents spread across its vast plains and rolling hills, South Dakota provides a unique blend of wide-open spaces and warm hospitality. The state’s tourism industry has been steadily growing, and for good reason. Let’s explore the compelling reasons why you should consider South Dakota for your next summer getaway.

Badlands National Park: A Geological Marvel

One of the crown jewels of South Dakota is undoubtedly Badlands National Park. This otherworldly landscape is a testament to the raw power of nature, showcasing millions of years of erosion that have carved out a captivating terrain of layered rock formations, steep canyons, and towering spires.

What makes Badlands National Park so unique? The park’s geology is characterized by its badlands topography, where soft sedimentary rocks have been eroded by wind and water over millennia. This process has created a striking palette of colors and textures that change with the shifting sunlight throughout the day.

Exploring the Badlands

• Scenic drives: The Badlands Loop Road offers numerous overlooks for spectacular vistas
• Hiking trails: From easy boardwalks to challenging backcountry paths
• Wildlife viewing: Keep an eye out for bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs
• Fossil hunting: Visit the Fossil Preparation Lab to see paleontologists at work

For those interested in paleontology, the Badlands are a treasure trove of ancient life. The park’s layers of rock contain one of the world’s richest fossil beds, with discoveries ranging from ancient sea creatures to prehistoric mammals.

Mount Rushmore: An Iconic American Landmark

No visit to South Dakota would be complete without a stop at Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This colossal sculpture, featuring the faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore, is an enduring symbol of American democracy and ambition.

While some visitors may find the heads smaller than expected, the sheer scale and artistry of the monument are undeniably impressive. The best time to visit Mount Rushmore is during the evening lighting ceremony, which adds a dramatic flair to the experience.

Mount Rushmore Quick Facts

1. Carved between 1927 and 1941
2. Features Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln
3. Each face is 60 feet high
4. Attracts over 2 million visitors annually

Is Mount Rushmore worth the visit despite the parking fee? Absolutely. The visitor center offers insightful exhibits on the monument’s history and construction, while the Presidential Trail provides up-close views of the sculpture.

Native American Heritage: A Living Culture

South Dakota’s rich Native American heritage is an integral part of the state’s identity. With nine federally recognized tribes and a Native American population comprising over 9% of the state’s residents, South Dakota offers numerous opportunities to engage with and learn about indigenous cultures.

How can visitors respectfully experience Native American culture in South Dakota? Many tribes welcome tourists to powwows, museums, and cultural centers. The Akta Lakota Museum in Chamberlain and the Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills are excellent starting points for those interested in Native American history and contemporary issues.

Supporting Indigenous Communities

When planning your South Dakota trip, consider incorporating visits to Native American-owned businesses and attractions. This not only enriches your travel experience but also contributes to the local economy and supports indigenous communities.

The Black Hills: Nature’s Playground

The Black Hills region of South Dakota is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This area, sacred to many Native American tribes, offers a diverse array of activities and attractions set against a backdrop of pine-covered mountains and pristine lakes.

What makes the Black Hills a must-visit destination? From hiking and rock climbing to scenic drives and wildlife viewing, the region caters to all levels of adventure seekers. Some highlights include:

• Custer State Park: Home to a free-roaming bison herd and scenic byways
• Needles Highway: A spectacular drive through towering granite spires
• Sylvan Lake: A picturesque lake perfect for swimming and paddling
• Spearfish Canyon: Offers hiking trails and stunning waterfalls

The Black Hills also boast a rich mining history, with former boomtowns like Deadwood now offering a glimpse into the Wild West era through preserved architecture and reenactments.

Unique Attractions: From Prehistoric to Present

South Dakota’s diverse landscape is home to an array of unique attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. From prehistoric wonders to quirky roadside stops, the state offers something for everyone.

Mammoth Site of Hot Springs

Step back in time at the Mammoth Site, an active paleontological dig site where visitors can observe the excavation of Ice Age fossils. This unique attraction houses the remains of over 60 mammoths, making it one of the largest concentrations of mammoth remains in the world.

Wall Drug

No South Dakota road trip is complete without a stop at Wall Drug. What started as a small-town pharmacy has evolved into a sprawling tourist attraction famous for its free ice water, 5-cent coffee, and eclectic mix of shops and exhibits.

Corn Palace

In Mitchell, you’ll find the world’s only Corn Palace, an auditorium decorated inside and out with murals made entirely of corn and other grains. The designs are changed annually, making each visit unique.

Outdoor Adventures: Beyond the Parks

South Dakota’s natural beauty extends far beyond its famous national parks and monuments. The state offers a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities for those seeking adventure or simply a chance to connect with nature.

Water Sports

The Missouri River, which bisects the state, provides ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. Lewis and Clark Lake, formed by the Gavins Point Dam, is a popular spot for water sports and camping.

Cycling

South Dakota boasts several scenic bike trails, including the 109-mile George S. Mickelson Trail in the Black Hills and the 19-mile Sioux Falls Bike Trail system.

Stargazing

With its vast open spaces and minimal light pollution, South Dakota offers excellent stargazing opportunities. The Badlands National Park even hosts astronomy events during the summer months.

When to Visit: Embracing South Dakota’s Seasons

When is the best time to visit South Dakota? While the state offers year-round attractions, many visitors prefer the summer months for their pleasant weather and full access to outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August)

Peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. Perfect for outdoor activities and attending local festivals.

Fall (September to November)

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage make this an excellent time for hiking and scenic drives. The famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally takes place in August.

Winter (December to February)

Cold temperatures bring opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowmobiling. Some attractions may have limited hours or be closed.

Spring (March to May)

As temperatures warm up, spring offers a chance to see wildlife and wildflowers. However, be prepared for unpredictable weather.

South Dakota’s diverse offerings make it a destination worth exploring in any season. Whether you’re seeking natural wonders, cultural experiences, or unique attractions, the Mount Rushmore State promises an unforgettable adventure. From the iconic faces of Mount Rushmore to the otherworldly landscapes of Badlands National Park, South Dakota invites you to discover its hidden treasures and create lasting memories.

6 Reasons You Should Definitely Visit South Dakota

Travel looks very different right now depending on where you’re from and where you’re going. Be sure to check local restrictions and be willing to adhere to any and all safety regulations before planning a trip to any of the places you may read about on this site. Also, some posts on this site contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). Read the full disclosure policy here.

When it comes to the United States, there are definitely certain states that get all the love. Everyone wants to visit California and New York. Florida and Texas are recognizable around the world. Hawaii and Alaska are on many a bucket list.

And I get it – those famous states are definitely cool and have lots to offer. But what about all the other states? (There are 50 of them, after all!)

In the past few years, I’ve made it a point to travel more within the US, both to the popular hotspots AND to the states that people tend to look over.

I’ve gone to amusement parks in Florida, explored the famous Mighty 5 in Utah, and eaten my way through New Orleans. But I’ve also explored the deserts of New Mexico, driven across Montana, and highlighted some cool parts of my home state of Ohio.

And on a recent road trip with my sister, I discovered a new state that swiftly became one of my favorites: South Dakota!

At Badlands National Park
Mount Rushmore
Falls Park in Sioux Falls

An introduction to South Dakota

South Dakota – just south of North Dakota in the Midwestern region of the US – is probably not the first state that comes to mind when you think about “states I definitely have to visit.” But the state is surprisingly interesting!

South Dakota became a state in 1889 simultaneously with North Dakota, which together had formerly been the “Dakota Territory.” The state’s name comes from the Lakota and Dakota Sioux tribes, which traditionally called (and still call) the area home.

The state is very sparsely populated, being home to less than one million people. You’ll find lots of grasslands (South Dakota is considered part of the Great Plains region), and not very many large cities.

But, believe it or not, tourism has become a key industry in South Dakota. And that’s because there’s actually a lot to see in this oft-overlooked state!

A word on South Dakota’s native population

As mentioned above, the Dakotas were named after indigenous peoples, and many of them still reside there. Roughly 71,800 Native Americans still live in South Dakota, accounting for more than 9% of the state’s population.

There are 9 tribal governments within the state, including the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe, Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, Oglala Sioux Tribe, Rosebud Sioux Tribe, Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and Yankton Sioux Tribe.

Native American populations in America have long been repressed and underserved, so it’s worth considering how your trip can affect (and hopefully contribute to) indigenous-owned businesses in tourism.

If you’re interested in getting to know South Dakota’s Native American culture, this list from Travel South Dakota is a good place to start.

6+ Reasons to visit South Dakota

My sister Melissa and I spent a couple of days driving across South Dakota this past summer (here’s our full road trip itinerary), and here are just a few of the reasons I think you should dedicate some time to this state:

1. Badlands National Park

In my humble opinion, Badlands National Park on its own is reason enough to visit South Dakota. It was the #1 place I wanted to visit in the state, and it did not disappoint.

The national park is filled with “badlands,” which describes a dry, crumbly terrain where softer sedimentary rocks and soils have been heavily eroded by wind and water. This unique type of erosion often causes interesting rock formations and patterns – and you’ll find plenty in Badlands National Park.

Yellow Mounds at Badlands NP

My sister and I spent half a day here doing a couple short walks and watching fossils being uncovered at the visitor center, but you could easily spend a full day in this park!

RELATED: Badlands National Park: Underrated and Awesome

2.

Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore at dusk

South Dakota’s Black Hills region is probably most famous for Mount Rushmore, the sculpture of the busts of 4 US presidents that were carved into the Black Hills granite in Keystone, South Dakota.

Even though I knew the heads were going to be smaller than expected and that we’d have to pay to park our car (even though the monument itself is free), Melissa and I wanted to see it anyway. And you know what? I’m glad we did!

We went around dusk, when they play a video about the four presidents memorialized and then light the faces up after a little ceremony.

3. Custer State Park

The popular Sylvan Lake

If you ask me, though, Custer State Park is the true gem of the Black Hills. It’s one of the largest state parks in the United States, covering 71,000 acres. It’s known for its wildlife (especially its bison herds), its fishing lakes and resorts, and its scenic drives – including the famous Needles Highway.

The “Needles”

The Needles Highway is the highlight if you only have enough time to pass quickly through the park like we did. The scenic drive takes you up close and straight through several really cool rock formations.

Driving the Needles Highway

If you have time, though, I would recommend allowing more than just a couple hours here to really enjoy the scenery.

4. Mammoth Site

Hands up if “Jurassic Park” made you want to be a paleontologist when you were a kid. I know it was certainly on my list of potential grown-up careers! And the cool news is that South Dakota is chock full of fossils. You’ll find dinosaur skeletons and replicas all across the state.

But one of my favorite spots that we visited doesn’t date back to the dinosaurs – it dates back to the days of the mammoths.

Look at all the mammoth bones!!

Simply called Mammoth Site, this spot in Hot Springs, South Dakota, is literally one of the coolest things I’ve seen with my own two eyes. 26,000 years ago, there was a sink hole in this spot that claimed the lives of dozens of mammoths – and then preserved their remains.

Today, Mammoth Site is an active paleontological dig site. It contains the world’s largest concentration of mammoth bones (actual bones, not fossils!), and you can see what they’ve uncovered up close.

So excited to see mammoths!

5. Cool cities

South Dakota doesn’t have very large cities, but the cities it does have are cool in their own right. Melissa and I enjoyed checking out Falls Park in Sioux Falls, and Rapid City is somewhere I’d like to fully explore sometime (we more or less only stayed overnight and didn’t really have time to see much!).

Falls Park in Sioux Falls

Since I haven’t written about these cities, here are a couple posts by fellow bloggers that can help prove my point on this one:

6. Roadside attractions

South Dakota also does its roadside attractions quite well. The most famous is of course Wall Drug, which started out as a small-town drug store and now covers an entire city block with all sorts of kitsch and craziness. Visit later in the day to beat the tourist crowds who flock from all over to wander the shops and get their free cup of ice water or 5-cent cup of coffee.

Inside Wall Drug

Another (similar) roadside attraction is Al’s Oasis, a rest stop along I-90. It looks like an Old West town outside, and has everything from a grocery store to souvenir shops inside.

At Al’s Oasis

And more!

Crazy as it might seem, Melissa and I didn’t have enough time to do/see everything we wanted to in South Dakota! Still on my “must-do” list are:

• Deadwood – Want to live out your Wild West fantasies? You can in Deadwood, the town made famous during the gold rush days by the likes of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Today, the entire town is a National Historic Landmark and is popular for its gaming and Wild West-re-enactments. (Think “Westworld,” but without the rape and murder.)
• Crazy Horse Memorial – It’s still a work in progress, but you can visit the massive carving of Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse in South Dakota’s Black Hills. Only his face is carved out of the mountain so far, but it’s still impressive.
• Wind Cave National Park – The other national park in South Dakota, Wind Cave is one of the longest and most complex caves in the world.
• Jewel Cave National Monument – Located near Custer, Jewel Cave is the third-longest cave in the world and has all sorts of cool formations inside, including calcite crystals. (Tours often sell out, though, so it’s a good idea to book ahead.)

READ NEXT: The Perfect 12-Day Northern USA Road Trip Itinerary for Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas

Who’s ready to plan a trip to South Dakota now?

Pin it for later:

Best of Mt. Rushmore & Badlands

Welcome to our ultimate South Dakota road trip planner! Whether you are planning a Mt Rushmore road trip or Black Hills road trip, this is for you!

We created this planner to help you plan a trip to South Dakota and it contains all the essential information you need to plan your trip today including budget and costs, what to eat, where to stay, etc.

In this South Dakota travel planner, we show you how to drive to South Dakota and make the most of your time in the stunning landscapes and splendid isolation of our favorite Midwest US state.

Not many actually make this road trip due to its faraway location in South Dakota but those who do are rewarded by the stillness of the Badlands, the beauty of the Black Hills, and the magnificence of Mount Rushmore.

Also read: 35 Amazing & Incredible Things to do in South Dakota

Here you will find recommendations for a variety of South Dakota trip itineraries as well as get more information on South Dakota road trip must-see attractions including Mt. Rushmore, Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, Badlands and surrounding area, Custer State Park, Deadwood, Spearfish Canyon, and Rapid City.

Our mission? To make sure you have a blast in South Dakota!

Mount Rushmore National Monument in Black Hills of South Dakota

“The road goes up hill and down, and it is rutted and dusty and stony but every turn of the wheels changes our view of the woods and the hills. The sky seems lower here, and it is the softest blue. The distances and the valleys are blue whenever you can see them. It is a drowsy country that makes you feel wide awake and alive but somehow contented.”
― Laura Ingalls Wilder

South Dakota is the ultimate road trip adventure. 

Driving through South Dakota involves Dusty unpaved roads through fascinating landscapes. Awe inspiring monuments and quirky roadside attractions. 

Wild West heroes and abandoned ghost towns. Gigantic underground caverns and stunning scenery. 

Gold Rush legends and Cold War relics. Nuclear missiles, street art, and dinosaur fossils. 

Most who visit South Dakota are surprised by the sheer variety of iconic landmarks and attractions found here.

Our story is also similar. A few years ago while planning our next trip we came across Mt Rushmore State. After researching the best road trip stops in South Dakota, we were stunned by what we discovered.

Unofficially nicknamed the Flyover State, South Dakota was supposed to be not that touristy – and yet, everything that we laid our eyes on indicated that a South Dakota Road Trip was the best thing that could happen to us.

And so we began our South Dakota family vacation trip planning, and now almost half a decade later, Badlands and South Dakota still remain one of our favorite travel destinations in the USA.

South Dakota Road Trip is an amazing experience

Why Visit South Dakota

South Dakota road trip means abundant wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and a feeling of utter isolation.

South Dakota vacation also means travel deep within the American heartlands and through small rural communities where life is hard but simple and the people are down-to-earth but friendly.

The Lakota flag flies strongly over South Dakota and the rich Native American heritage and culture are as tangible here as the wind among the prairies.

South Dakota was formerly called ‘the Sunshine State’. We always feel that the name suits the state so much better than the current Sunshine State of Florida.

While the winter sun inspires crowded beaches and fun vibes in Florida, the summer draws out the rich wildlife in South Dakota. And paints the spectacular landscape in vivid colors.

Some come here for the road trip to Mount Rushmore; others for a Badlands road trip. 

We invite you to take this epic road trip through South Dakota and discover your own reasons for falling in love with this amazing state.

Also Read: 5 Reasons Badlands is better than Grand Canyon (Plus 2 reasons it’s not!)

South Dakota has a rich cultural and natural history which is evident in many of its star attractions including Wind Cave National Monument, the iconic monument of Mt. Rushmore, Custer State Park, Badlands, Spearfish Canyon, and the Black Hills. 

South Dakota was purchased as part of the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. Formerly an Indian land, the Lewis and Clark expedition explored the area and the first American settlers came here afterward. 

South Dakota was part of the Gold Rush of the 1800s and mining towns and local gold mines were established in the area. Today the abandoned mines and villages act as tourist attractions of the American West.  

The discovery of gold in the Black Hills and the establishment of settlements led to the Black Hills Wars between the Lakota Indians and the American Government.

South Dakota’s Native American and Wild West history can be discovered in places such as Crazy Horse Memorial, the Battle of Wounded Knee, and Deadwood.

The state’s wildlife ranges from extinct dinosaurs and wooly mammoth fossils to giant herds of bison and pronghorn antelopes. You can also see a variety of birds, critters, and even snakes in the state.

Because of the ample attractions, South Dakota vacations remain the ultimate summer family road trip adventure.

Badlands National park geological formations

Where to start South Dakota road trip

The only way to see South Dakota is on a road trip. The state has no public transport of any sort and the few airports are spread far apart and are too expensive to fly in. 

So, exactly how far is South Dakota? And how to get to South Dakota?

Most visitors fly into Rapid City or Sioux Falls and rent a car or RV their way across the state.  

Denver, being just 6 hrs away from Rapid City and western South Dakota, makes an excellent option if you have the extra time.

You can also go on an epic Chicago to South Dakota road trip or Minneapolis to Mt. Rushmore Road Trip if coming from the Midwest. 

South Dakota road trip stops are connected to each other via scenic byways which are a destination in themselves.

The wide-open expanse of the prairies and freeways that go straight for miles is sharply juxtaposed against the turns and twists of the Black Hills, narrow passages of Needles Highway, and breathtaking tunnels of Iron Mountain Road.

Vacation in South Dakota is made for relaxed and aimless driving. This is one road trip that you will remember above all others and the many attractions of South Dakota will call you back year after year.

When to go on a South Dakota Road Trip

Another unofficial nickname for South Dakota is ‘the Blizzard State’.

If that isn’t self-explanatory; the winter weather in the state is too severe to consider any kind of vacations in South Dakota. Spring and fall can also be accompanied by sudden temperature drops, wind chills, and snowstorms.

The best time to plan your South Dakota Road Trip is from a week or two before Memorial Day to a couple of weeks after Labor Day.

If you are planning a trip in the summer, the temperature gets extremely hot in July August. You need to be prepared for the extreme heat, especially if planning to hike. Pack sunscreen, a hat, coolers, and carry lots of water.

If you visit in September, you will be treated to spectacular fall colors, especially in the Spearfish Canyon area.

That said, we know of several people who have planned a winter trip to the state and fallen in love with the winter scenery. However, lots of businesses and attractions are often closed during off peak season. 

So if you do plan a winter trip, we recommend sticking to most popular attractions and places of interest. 

Dates wise, the peak tourist season begins 1st May and ends on 30th September. Most attractions follow these dates. 

Best of South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

In this itinerary, we recommend flying into Sioux Falls and then driving west on the I-90 before ending your trip at Rapid City. You can also complete the trip in reverse direction. 

Alternatively, you can also make a round trip from either Sioux Falls or Rapid City. We have given plenty of options to customize your South Dakota itinerary. 

We recommend at least 4 to 7 days for this road trip to enjoy the many monuments, attractions, scenic drives, and hikes.

Note – Several of the attractions, especially the roadside ones, are operating with changed timings or closed due to the pandemic. We recommend researching before your trip. 

Here are the best things to do on a road trip to Mount Rushmore on a one week in South Dakota vacation.

Dotted Globe contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full Disclosure here. Thank you!

“The beauty and charm of the wilderness are his for the asking, for the edges of the wilderness lie close beside the beaten roads of the present travel.”
– Theodore Roosevelt

Day 1: Sioux Falls & Mitchell

Start your South Dakota itinerary in the city of Sioux Falls. Check out the major attractions of Falls Park, Sculpture Walk, and Old Courthouse Museum. Enjoy the culinary scene of the city before seeing the roadside attractions on your way to Badlands National Park. 

Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, located in eastern South Dakota is famous for its waterfalls on the Big Sioux River.

Start your day in Sioux Falls at the Falls Park. At the park, the Big Sioux River tumbles down quartzite rock formations to create a series of beautiful waterfalls. 

Visitors can watch them from many observation platforms in the park and have a nice meal at the Falls Overlook Cafe.

The area surrounding the falls is beautiful and has many biking and hiking trails. The park also has many historic buildings including the Queen Bee Mill, a horse barn, and the Millrace Dam.

Other attractions in Sioux Falls include the St. Joseph Cathedral, Old Courthouse Museum, and the Pettigrew Home & Museum. And off course, the legendary Sculpture Walk!

The Sioux Falls Sculpture Walk is an amazing outdoor gallery of stunning sculptures lining the road between Falls Park and the Washington Pavilion. 

If you have kids take them to see the Great Plains Zoo or the Butterfly House & Aquarium.

Falls Park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Where to stay in Sioux Falls

There are several options to stay in the city of Sioux Falls. You will find hotels, motels, and a variety of home stays. 

If you prefer to stay by the regional airport (FSD), then the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Sioux Falls – Airport is a great choice. Alternatively, you can also stay at AeroStay or Fairfield Inn & Suites. 

Downtown, stay near Empire Mall or in the City Center.  

For amazing views and character plus to stay close to the attractions, consider staying at Hotel on Phillips Sioux Falls. This is especially great for couples. 

Families love staying at the large rooms with kitchenette at Staybridge Suites – Sioux Falls Southwest or at Hyatt Place Sioux Falls South. Holiday Inn – City Center is also a convenient option. 

Click here to Book your Sioux Falls hotel now. 

We recommend spending about half a day in the city, having lunch, and then heading out to see the World’s Only Corn Palace at Mitchell.

The distance from Sioux Falls to Mitchell is about 75 miles and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to drive along I-90. 

If you have more time, you can also check out some of the top attractions near Sioux Falls which we have listed below.

Optional: Palisades State Park

Palisades State Park is located about 23 miles away from Sioux Falls in Garretson. The park can be reached in under 30 minutes by car.

This state park is one of the most beautiful and stunning places in South Dakota. Here you will find stunning Sioux quartzite formations lining the Split Rock Creek. 

The tall quartzite cliffs seem to rise vertically from the water. Scenic overlooks located atop the cliffs can be reached by hiking or mountain biking. 

Canoeing and kayaking or fishing in the creek is also popular along with camping, wildlife watching, and photography. 

Palisades State Park near Garretson, South Dakota

Optional: Good Earth State Park at Blood Run

Another great option for a day trip from Sioux Falls is the Good Earth State Park at Blood Run. It is located just 10 miles away and can be reached in 20 minutes. 

The park is a great place to visit for history and culture lovers. The park and it’s surrounding area was inhabited by Native Americans for  thousands of years. 

In fact, it is one of the oldest sites to be continuously inhabited by humans in the US. 

At the park visitor center and museum, you can learn more about the Oneota Culture. You will find several interesting exhibits and interpretative signs throughout the park.  

The park is also popular for hiking trails on the open grasslands, views of the Big Sioux River, and wildlife viewing opportunities. 

Optional: De Smet

De Smet is located 100 miles to the Northwest of Sioux Falls and is popular with literary travelers. It was here that Laura Ingalls Wilder lived for many years and half of the Little House on the Prairie series books are set in De Smet. 

The primary attraction of De Smet in South Dakota is Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Homes. Visitors can take a tour of the homestead and experience for yourself the prairie life in the books. 

Visitors can also see other historic sites in De Smet including the De Smet cemetery, the Surveyor’s House, and Main Street. 

The Wilder Welcome Center and De Smet Depot Museum are also great places to visit. 

After seeing all the attractions in and around Sioux Falls, head west on I-90 towards Badlands National Park. 

Alternatively, you can also stay the night in Sioux Falls and see the Corn Palace and other roadside attractions the next day.

Here are some of our favorite roadside attractions that make this road trip memorable!

Porter Sculpture Park, Montrose

Located at the Montrose exit off I-90, between Sioux Falls and Mitchell, you will find the Porter Sculpture Garden. You can even see sculptures from the highway. 

This sculpture garden is located on private property of the sculptor and can be seen with tickets (10 for adults, kids under 12 free). You can even meet the sculptor and talk with him. 

The collection includes several amazing sculptures of various sizes and they are accompanied by poems. The sculptures are stunning and the park is one of the best Instagram spots in South Dakota. 

We definitely recommend stopping at this unique roadside attraction and appreciating the artwork. Keep aside an hour or so to see the entire park. 

Mitchell Corn Palace

The Corn Palace at Mitchell – a one of a kind attraction – is a building completely decorated with corn. 

The Corn Palace is created to pay tribute to the efforts of the region’s farmers and to display the products of the harvest each year.  

On the exterior, you will find elaborate corn murals using grains, ears, and husks of different colors. The effect is quite stunning.

Exhibits inside the palace showcase decorations from previous years and tell the history of Mitchell.

A new theme and design adorns the Corn Palace every year. This is one of the popular tourist attractions in the eastern part of South Dakota

The Corn Palace is fun to visit, pretty unique, and photogenic – and also completely free!. 

To know more, read our Visitor’s Guide to the Corn Palace at Mitchell.

Mitchell Corn Palace, South Dakota

Other Things to do in Mitchell

The city of Mitchell has many other attractions besides the Corn Palace. 

Visitors can explore the Mitchell archeological site. It is a national historic landmark and you can see remains of a prehistoric Indian Village.

This is a great place to visit with the kids as they can understand the archeological process at a live site. 

The Mitchell site is located next to the shores of Lake Mitchell and is a great location to spend time outdoors. The lake has biking trails and picnic areas.

You can also visit the Dakota Discovery Museum to understand life on the prairies and the state’s history.

Where to stay in Mitchell 

Mitchell is not very big, and you can easily stay near the Corn Palace and see nearby attractions in a day. 

Some of the best hotels to stay in Mitchell include the Thunderbird Lodge, which is popular with couples for its indoor hot tub or Hampton Inn Mitchell, which is popular with families. 

Other family friendly options include Holiday Inn Mitchell or the Ramada Mitchell. For a budget friendly stay, consider Super 8 Mitchell or Motel 6. 

Click here to Book your hotel in Mitchell now.

Dignity Statue, Chamberlain

In Chamberlain, on the banks of the Missouri River, you will find South Dakota’s newest tourist attraction. 

The striking Dignity sculpture is an amazing and awe-inspiring work of art. The 50 feet tall statue represents a Native American woman and is created by sculptor Dale Lamphere.  

The traditional dress with the diamond quilt is one of the most beautiful things that you will see. The majestic statue honors the Lakota and Dakota Native American tribes and their culture. 

The statue is located between exit 263 and exit 265 on the Interstate and is definitely one of the best stops on a South Dakota road trip. 

For Illustrative purposes only – Dignity Statue in Chamberlain, South Dakota

Skeleton Man Walking Skeleton Dinosaur

Looking for something truly quirky and unique? Find the skeleton man walking the skeleton dinosaur! 

The sculpture has a skeleton man holding an axe and leading a skeleton T-Rex on a leash. You can’t go near the sculpture, but it can be easily seen and photographed from far. 

Or to get even closer, consider visiting the 1880 Museum! 

This attraction is located before exit 170 on the westbound I-90. 

Original 1880 Town Museum

Just a short distance from the skeleton man sculpture, you will find the 1880 Town Museum. In fact, it’s said that the skeleton man and skeleton dinosaur are walking towards the 1880 Town! 

This attraction is located in Murdo and has several historic buildings belonging to that era. You will also see movie props from the film, Dances with Wolves. 

Other fun things to do include feeding popcorn to a camel named Otis, renting period costumes, and taking a close up photo of the dinosaur sculpture.

Optional: Sitting Bull Monument

3 hours north of Murdo, South Dakota you will find the Sitting Bull Monument. 

The monument is located near Mobridge on the banks of the Missouri. This is said to be the final resting place of the Native American (Sioux) spiritual leader, Chief Sitting Bull. 

At the memorial, you will find a six feet tall bust of Sitting Bull. It is carved by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski who is also the sculptor of Crazy Horse Memorial. 

The Sakakawea Monument is also located nearby on SD Highway 1806. 

After seeing all the roadside attractions, drive towards Wall, South Dakota. The total distance from Sioux Falls to Wall is roughly 4 hours without stopping at the roadside attractions.

However Custer / Badlands National Park and Wall is in the Mountain Time Zone while Mitchell is in the Central Time Zone, so you will gain an hour on reaching Wall.

You can stay in the town of Wall for the night or camp in Badlands National Park. (See below)

Travel Tip – If you have less time or are starting your road trip from Rapid City, skip this day. Continue straight onto Day 2 and start your trip from Custer / Badlands National Park.

For Illustrative purposes only – Sitting Bull Monument, South Dakota

Day 2: Badlands National Park

Your next stop is the famous Badlands National Park of South Dakota. 

Hike up to the beautiful Badlands Wall to see the panoramic view and drive the Badlands Loop Road to see wildlife. 

Fall in love with the alien landscape and experience what the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright felt on seeing the Badlands.

On the way, check out the iconic Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. Sip on coffee and take a photo with the mythical jackalope at the Wall Drug Store.

Badlands National Park

Located in the northern Great Plains, the Badlands are one of the major landmarks of the Midwest.

The formation of the Badlands began millions of years ago when the White River carved its way on the flat surface of the Great Plains.

Layer after layer of rock was exposed in a variety of geological formations as the river kept changing its course.

Over time, a maze of spires, pinnacles, gullies, buttes, mounds, and valleys covered this part of the great plains. This unique terrain was almost inaccessible and unpassable to man, hence the name ‘badlands’.

The Lakota Indians were the first to call the area ‘mako sica’ literally meaning ‘land bad’.

The Badlands National Park protects over 244,000 acres of these badlands. One of the best places to understand the park geology and see fossil specimens is the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.

The Badlands Wall, a 50-mile long escarpment of erosion, lies between the uneroded Upper Prairies and the completely eroded Lower Prairies.

The Upper Prairies are flat and grassy and give no clue of the unique topography on the other side of the Badlands Wall. 

Eroded rock formations of the badlands in Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Many hikes in Badlands National Park take visitors up to the Wall and offer beautiful panoramic views of the eroded landforms.

The Badlands Loop Road also takes you up the mountain passes where the Upper prairies transition to lower prairies.

The process of erosion continues even today. The Badlands continue to be sculpted by water, wind, and sun.

The park has two units: North Unit & South Unit. Most amenities and activities are in the North Unit.

There are several things to do in Badlands National Park, many of which we have highlighted below.

Watch the Wildlife At Badlands National Park

The Badlands are covered by sparse vegetation but are home to abundant wildlife. Most of these animals survive on the stretches of prairie within the park. 

Visitors to the park can spot a lot of the Great Plains wildlife including herds of bison, deer, mountain goat, sheep, pronghorns, elk, coyotes, and prairie dogs.

You can also see a variety of birds including eagles, hawks, pheasants, western meadowlarks, and magpies. 

Mountain lions also live in the area and are seen by few lucky tourists.

Prairie Dogs in Badlands National Park, South Dakota

See the fossils in the park

While the bison, coyotes, and mountain lion are most dangerous to tourists today, many more dangerous and magnificent beasts lived on the Great Plains in prehistoric times. 

Some of these include Titanothere and Brontothere, belonging to the family of horses and rhinos.

Archaeotherium, belonging to the family of pigs and hippos, also lived here as did a variety of hippo ancestors, dog ancestors, rabbit ancestors, and camel ancestors.

Many rich fossil beds are hidden in the Badlands and preserve these extinct mammals. These fossils attract many paleontologists and biologists to the Badlands.

The area has also yielded fossils of extinct species of turtles, crocodiles, snails, and birds. Visitors can see them at the Visitor Center and on the Fossil Trail. 

Contrary to popular reports, no dinosaur fossils have been discovered in the park.

Mountain goat in Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Drive the Badlands Loop Road

Driving the Badlands Loop Road is an unforgettable experience. We can never forget the first time we drove the park loop road.

The views from the road are beautiful. And if you happen to drive during a rain shower in the summer, you may be able to see a rainbow!

We did – it rose majestically, before our eyes, over the never-ending prairies of the Upper Plains. 

And then the road dipped over a pass and the green grasslands suddenly gave way to the desolate awe-inspiring colorful badlands!

We had no inkling, no clue – the abruptness of the transition took our breath away. 

It was the most wonderful introduction to this iconic national park.

The Badlands Loop Road, officially known as Highway 240, is among the top 5 Scenic drives in the state. 

It is a two-lane paved road that takes visitors through the Northern Unit of the Park. The road is 40 miles long and needs an hour to drive through without stops. 

The road has many scenic overlooks and trailheads, so we would recommend keeping aside half a day to a day for this road.

Most visitors stop every now and then to explore the park and view its highlights. Each scenic overlook provides a unique view over the Badlands.

Driving the Badlands Loop Road is exciting and amazing. The road has spectacular landscapes and many overlooks to explore the Badlands.

Gorgeous rainbow at sunset in Badlands National park at Panorama Point

Go Off-roading At Badlands National Park

Along with the Badlands Loop Road, there are many other opportunities for off-roading and driving along gravel and unpaved roads inside the park.

Visitors can follow many of these roads to see beautiful, unobstructed views of the park.

The Sage Creek Rim Road is a gravel road along the North Rim of the Badlands Wilderness Area.

This road is recommended for high clearance 4WD vehicles only but it is in great condition for a gravel road and we could easily drive it with a 2WD vehicle.

It provides many opportunities to see wildlife, landscape, and geological formations up close. Keep aside an hour or two to drive this road.

To explore the Sheep Mountain Table area, visitors need to take the Sheep Mountain Table Road.

Hiking on the Notch trail in Badlands National Park

Enjoy the hiking trails at Badlands National Park

Hiking the badlands is our favorite way of exploring this National Park.

While the Badlands Loop Road takes you around the beautiful vistas, hiking lets you explore the badlands from within.

You can climb around the pinnacles and buttes and appreciate their beauty and barrenness up close.

The national park has many miles of designated trails to satisfy everyone from preschoolers to the most adventurous explorers. 

Some of them are accessible and family-friendly while others take you uphill to the Badlands Wall.

Some of the most popular trails include the Door Trail, Window Trail, Fossil Exhibit Trail, Notch Trail, and the Castle Trail. Most of the trailheads are along the Badlands Loop Road.

Our personal favorite by far is the Notch Trail. It is famous for its exceptional views.

The trail is strenuous, along cliff edges, and has a vertical log ladder to ascend the Badlands Wall. The view from the top is breathtaking.

To read more about hiking in Badlands National Park, see our Guide to Hiking in the Badlands.

Camp At Badlands National Park

If you have the time, we definitely recommend camping at Badlands. 

Camping in Badlands National Park and seeing the starry night sky is an amazing way to experience this dramatic landscape. Plus, you wake up to stunning views of the Badlands Wall.

Also Read: Best Camping in the USA

The most popular place to camp is the Cedar Pass Campground. 

The campsites at Cedar Pass are located smack dab in the middle of the prairies and surrounded by the unique Badlands formations.

The campground has about 100 campsites with covered picnic tables. All the sites are located on flat ground.

The views at sunset and sunrise from the campsites are gorgeous.

Camping in Badlands National Park is an amazing experience

The other campsites are located in the Sage Creek Campground near Badlands Wilderness Area.

These campsites are primitive and can be accessed via an unpaved road. The Badlands wildlife, including bison, frequently wander near the campground.

Apart from the designated campsites, Badlands also offers backcountry camping. 

Backcountry camping offers best-uninterrupted views of the Badlands and complete solitude from other visitors.

This is a popular option for backpackers. While a permit is not required, informing park rangers of your camping plans is highly recommended.

Badlands campsites are surrounded by the Badlands Wall and have beautiful views

Best Places to Stay near Badlands National Park

If you prefer not to camp, the only option to stay inside Badlands National Park is the Cedar Pass Lodge.

The lodge has beautiful Black Hills pine cabins which are tastefully furnished with handcrafted furniture and have relaxing deck chairs to enjoy beautiful Badlands views.

However, the cabins are limited in number and we recommend booking them in advance.

The Cedar Pass Lodge also has dining amenities.

Colors of the Badlands look more vivid after rainfall

Where to stay in Wall, South Dakota

Visitors often prefer staying in the town of Wall, which serves as the gateway to the national park. 

There are many hotels and motels located in the town near the Wall Drug. 

Most popular chains including America’s Best Value Inn, Days Inn, and Best Western Plains Motel are located here.

These hotels also fill up fast during the peak summer season and advance reservations are highly recommended. Not many AirBnBs and vacation rentals are located near Badlands.

Click here to book your hotel in Wall, South Dakota now. 

While we have suggested a minimum of one day at Badlands, we ideally recommend 2 to 3 days to explore this extraordinary landscape. 

Plus there are other attractions near Badlands which make excellent reasons for spending more time in the area.

Delta-01 Launch Facility at Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, South Dakota

Optional: Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

If you are a military enthusiast, then you will love visiting the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. 

Minuteman Missiles played a very important role in the Cold War. Several were located in the Great Plains, ready to be deployed at the slightest need. 

After their decommissioning, most of the missiles were removed but the one near Wall, South Dakota was converted into a tourist attraction. 

The national historic site comprises 3 distinct areas located about 10 miles apart near the town of Wall along the Interstate. 

Delta-01 Launch Control Room is located at Exit 127 and can be seen on a ranger guided tour. You can also see the Delta-09 Minuteman Underground missile silo on a self-guided tour at exit 116. 

And lastly, there’s the Visitor Center at exit 131. Here you can understand the history of the Civil war, see exhibits, and learn more about the nuclear missiles. 

Teens and warfare enthusiasts love visiting the site to see the nuclear missile. 

Delta-09 Missile Silo at Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, South Dakota

Optional: Wall Drug

The town of Wall, located near the entrance to Badlands National Park, is home to the Wall Drug Store, one of the area’s major tourist attractions.

The Wild West-themed sprawling shopping mall had humble beginnings as a pharmacy store and now attracts over two million tourists every year.

You will see large billboards advertising the Wall Drug throughout your South Dakota Road Trip, especially on I-90. 

Visiting the ‘Wall Drug’ is a fun and fascinating experience. The whole Cowboys / American West theme is attractive and elaborately executed.

The mall is really huge. It has gift shops, restaurants, photo booths, a western art museum, and even a dinosaur! Talk about being a hit with families.

And yes, it offers free cups of ice water and bumper stickers, as promised in the many ads.

This is a good place to buy South Dakota souvenirs and get food. 

There is also a Dairy Queen in the town of Wall and the blizzards and ice-creams feel great on a hot summer day.

Warning – The Wall Drug is rather touristy and always crowded, so if you hate fudge/popcorn/taffy/kids rides/old time photos style typical tourist attractions, then maybe skip a visit!

For Illustrative purposes only – Wall Drug dinosaur near Badlands, South Dakota

Day 3: Custer State Park & Crazy Horse Memorial

Next, make way for Custer State Park. Spot the famous bison herds and see a roundup if you are lucky. 

Go hiking in the park, swim in the mountain lakes, and enjoy the scenic views.

Drive the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway which is made of 3 amazing roads: the Wildlife Loop Road, Needles Highway, and the Iron Mountain Road. 

Save time by visiting the famous Crazy Horse Memorial as a day trip from the park on this day.

Custer State Park

Custer State Park, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is the largest state park in the country.

The park is famous for its abundant wildlife sightings. The state park’s Wildlife Loop Road is one of the best places to see wildlife in South Dakota.

The drive from Badlands to Custer State Park is about 1 hrs 15 mins or 70 miles. 

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Custer State Park.

Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Drive the Wildlife Loop Road

The Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park is an 18 miles long scenic drive which is part of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway.

The best time to drive the road is at sunset and just before sunrise for watching wildlife.

The scenic road is one of our favorite places to spot wildlife in the USA. This is also the best place to watch American bison.

In fact, Custer has a herd of 1300 bison that freely roams inside the park and they will cross your path! 

While driving the Wildlife Loop Road, visitors often need to stop to let a herd of bison pass at a leisurely pace.

You will also see prairie dogs near the prairie dog town. It is fascinating to watch the prairie dogs stand over their burrows and keep watch for predators. 

Other wildlife that you will see on the road includes mountain goats, deer, and begging burros.

The road has many opportunities to photograph the wildlife and we recommend carrying a good camera as well as a quality new zoom lens on your road trip – you will definitely put it to great use throughout the South Dakota road trip.

The Wildlife Loop Road is also popular with wildlife photographers and nature lovers.

To see incredible pictures of the wildlife in Custer State Park, read our post Wildlife of South Dakota and Northern Great Plains

Begging burros in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Camp At Custer State Park

One of the best ways to experience Custer State Park is by camping. The park has 9 different campgrounds and all have scenic campsites.

Most of the campsites are on a first come first serve basis, so you need to reach early to select a good site.

The most popular campgrounds include the Blue Bell Campground and Center Lake campground which has a same-day reservation policy – hence popular with many. 

All of the campsites in Center Lake are located around the mountain lake and shaded by pine trees. They have grills and picnic tables.

There are lots of water activities available on the lake including trout fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The lake also has a boat dock to launch boats and a swimming beach.

Overall, Center Lake Campground is a great place to base your stay in Custer State Park.

The park also has furnished cabins with electricity but you need to book these far in advance.

Blue Bell Lodge has over 20 cabins while Legion Lake Lodge, Sylvan Lake Lodge, State Game Lodge also have many rustic cabins that are perfect for a relaxing stay. 

Bison herds in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Other things to do at Custer State Park

Besides the Wildlife Loop Road and camping, Custer State Park has many other things to do for couples, families, and kids.

Fishing for trout in the mountain lakes is a popular activity. The park has a total of 4 large mountain lakes that are stocked with fish in the summer.

There are also many hiking and biking trails in Custer State Park. The park also has equestrian trails and horse camps and is great for those who love horse riding.

You can also drive along the backcountry roads to explore the park and enjoy the fresh mountain air and open pastures. 

Custer State Park is one of the best family destinations in the country. If you have more time, you can easily spend 3 to 4 days in the park.

To see an epic bucket list of all the activities that you can do in the park and plan your trip, read our post on Best Things to do in Custer State Park.

Wild pheasants in Custer State Park

Crazy Horse Memorial

After spending some more time in Custer’s wilderness and driving the Wildlife Loop Road, make a day trip to see Crazy Horse Memorial. 

The Crazy Horse Memorial is dedicated to the Lakota warrior Crazy Horse. 

The carving is still a work in progress, but when complete it will be the largest mountain carving in the world.

The memorial is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota and half an hour’s drive away from Custer State Park Visitor Center. It makes a great day trip from the park.

The memorial is being built in honor of the Lakota warrior, Crazy Horse, who fought against the American settlers and US Federal government in the 19th century to preserve the Indian territory.

The sculpture has the Oglala Lakota warrior, Crazy Horse, sitting on a horse and pointing towards the Black Hills. 

The memorial is constructed entirely on private land using private funds. Proceeds from visitor tickets go towards the completion of the sculpture.

Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills of South Dakota

The memorial also has a visitor’s center, where you can read exhibits about Crazy Horse and the 25 years’ worth of battles between Lakota Indians and the US Government.

The visitor center also offers many opportunities to learn about the Lakota way of life, heritage, and culture.

Seeing the memorial up close is amazing. The sculpture is colossal and immense. Learning about the Lakota history of the area is a poignant experience.

The memorial also has an on-site museum with a vast collection of Native American artifacts and artwork.

This is a unique roadside attraction and a must while visiting the Black Hills of South Dakota. 

We would recommend everyone to visit the Crazy Horse Memorial as a tribute to the great Lakota warrior.

To plan a trip to the memorial, read our post Visitor’s Guide to Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota

After seeing the memorial, return to your campsite in the park or lodging in Custer. 

If you have more time, go swimming in the park’s mountain lakes or hike or put up a hammock against the pine trees and read a book.

Travel Tip – If you are short on time, you can see Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop Road, other scenic drives, Crazy Horse Memorial, as well as Mt. Rushmore in just one day. It will be hectic but manageable since the attractions are fairly close to one another. 

Custer State Park camping

Optional: Custer

Many visitors often skip the town of custer itself for the many attractions in the Black Hills. 

However, if you have the time then definitely spend some time exploring Custer and its charming streets. 

Custer is the oldest town in the Black Hills. Within the town, you will find fun things to do including the 1881 Courthouse Museum and the Four Mile Old West Town. 

Walk in the town and enjoy local shopping in stores like the Custer Candy Company and the Good Karma Jewelry. 

To get outdoors, rent an ATV or go for a hot air balloon ride over the Black Hills or learn rock climbing among the spires of needles Highway. A variety of outdoor gear and tour operators are located in Custer. 

You can also attend events like the Old Country Fair, Gold Rush Days Festival, and the Tesla Car Rally. 

Where to stay in Custer, South Dakota?

If you don’t want to camp in Custer State Park or stay in one of its pine cabins, then stay in the city of Custer. 

Custer provides an excellent base to see all the attractions in the Black Hills including Mt Rushmore, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse, and even Hot Springs. 

One of our top recommendations for a great place to stay in Custer is the EO Bungalows Black Hills. The 19th century buildings and atmosphere make it a favorite with couples and those looking for a relaxing getaway. 

For families, we recommend the Bavarian Inn in the Black Hills which has a swimming pool or Chalet Motel in Custer, which has really pretty cabins and a very convenient location. 

Another great option is Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins. You will love the pretty cabins and the location on the prairies amidst the Black Hills. 

Other comfortable and convenient options include Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Custer or Best Western Buffalo Ridge. 

Bison herds on Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Day 4: Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway & Mt. Rushmore Itinerary

Next day, get ready to explore the rest of Custer State Park’s scenic drives. This is, by far, our favorite day in the Black Hills.

You will be driving on the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, through the granite tunnels on Iron Mountain Road, and see the incredible Needles from Needles Highway Scenic Overlook before arriving at Keystone, South Dakota.

Then see the iconic monument of Mt. Rushmore. This is one of the most revered attractions in the country and Mt Rushmore family vacation is one the bucket list of most travelers.

Explore the charming town of Keystone that has sprung up beside the memorial and have fun at its many attractions. You will also have one of the best meals at our favorite restaurant in Keystone.

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

As road trip lovers, we enjoy driving on twisting and challenging roads. Hence, we particularly looked forward to this scenic byway.

The three scenic drives of Wildlife Loop Road, Iron Mountain Road, and the Needles Highway are together called the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway.

The scenic drives are truly breathtaking and open up to beautiful vistas. They pass through fascinating geological landforms and are constructed in awe-inspiring ways.

This route is consistently placed among America’s Top 10 scenic byways. It has also been named as one of the Most Outstanding Byways in America.

The Iron Mountain Road and the Needles Highway parts of Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway represent unique driving challenges and are delightful to drive.

Tunnel on Iron Mountain Road in Black Hills, South Dakota

Iron Mountain Road

First up on your itinerary is the spectacularly engineered Iron Mountain Road, otherwise known as Scenic Highway 16A. 

The road connects Custer State Park with Mount Rushmore National Memorial and is a highlight of the trip.

“Legend says that engineers once declared the road unbuildable – and then the Iron Mountain Road as it is today took shape and form.”

The road has three pigtail bridges – which are spiral bridges that loop continuously over themselves – and three precise rock-cut granite tunnels. 

The tunnels are by far the star attractions of the byway. The magnificent Black Hills scenery is always in view.

Driving the Iron Mountain Road is a delight. 

The recommended speed limit is about 20 mph. This is a road to be savored. 

Driving slowly allows drivers to negotiate the turns and twists in the road safely plus appreciate the beautiful mountain landscape. 

The lookout points are ideal to get down and enjoy the view.

The pigtail bridges and multiple switchbacks are gorgeous while the single-lane narrow tunnels are thrilling.

Mount Rushmore is in clear sight through the last two tunnels. 

Pigtail curves of Iron Mountain Road, South Dakota

The last tunnel in particular symmetrically frames Mount Rushmore and offers an incredible photo opportunity. 

This road is also popular with motorcyclists and bikers – you can easily rent bikes in Rapid City to drive the byway. 

You will need about an hour and a half to complete the drive at a leisurely pace. 

We recommend driving this route in the morning when the sun is behind you to enjoy the beautiful views.

While Mount Rushmore National Memorial is directly in front of you after exiting the last tunnel on Iron Mountain Road, there is another scenic drive to look forward to before reaching the Memorial.  

Needles Highway

Next up is the Needles Highway – a spectacular 14 miles long drive through dense pine and spruce forests and needle-like granite formations. 

The Needles Highway drive takes about an hour to complete and is closed in winter.

The Needles Highway is officially Highway 87 (SD 87). 

Driving the Needles Highway is not for the faint-hearted. The road makes several sharp hairpin-turns and passes through incredibly tight tunnels.

For most of its length, the road is surrounded by craggy, sharp granite formations that seem to rise towards the sky and jab the clouds. Hence their name, the needles.

Needles granite formations on Needles Highway, South Dakota

The granite needles are a product of millions of years of erosion by the wind, rain, snow, and sunshine.

The highlight of Needles Highway is the Needles Eye – a fantastic rock formation just southeast of Sylvan Lake end of the drive.

The formation is visible only on walking out of the car. There are parking spaces near the side of the road before the Needle’s Eye. 

The area near the Needles Eye has big sharp rock formations and is a haven for rock climbers.

The Needles Eye tunnel is not easy for larger vehicles to pass through and needs extra care while driving. 

It is suitable only for smaller cars and not for RVs or trailers.

The scenic byway has many opportunities to see wildlife along the route. We saw whitetail deer and mountain goats while driving the Needles Highway.

Driving both the scenic byways of Iron Mountain Road and the Needles Highway should not take more than 2-3 hrs and once you near Mount Rushmore, the road is pretty much straight.

Tunnel on Needles Highway in Black Hills, South Dakota

Keystone

Keystone, South Dakota is the gateway to exploring Mount Rushmore National Memorial. 

It is a charming but touristy town with many other attractions apart from the memorial.

Keystone is also the perfect place to base your stay near Mount Rushmore Memorial. The town has many lodges and hotels that cater to visitors. It also has eateries and restaurants.

Keystone is a great place on your South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary to learn more about American history in a natural setting.

While Mount Rushmore is Keystone’s premier attraction, the town’s other beloved activities include Big Thunder Gold Mine where kids can pan for gold and the National Presidential Wax Museum which has lifelike figures of all US Presidents.

The Gutzon Borglum Historical Center in Keystone is dedicated to the life and work of the sculptor of Mount Rushmore.

The Keystone Historical Museum is dedicated to local Keystone history. 

The museum is also a great place to learn about the Ingalls family and the life of Carrie Ingalls, one of South Dakota’s pioneer women.

Carrie Ingalls was the younger sister of Laura Ingalls, who wrote the celebrated Little House on the Prairie series of children’s books. 

If you love literary trivia, then the museum is a must-visit.

To try some of the Midwest’s famous home cooking, visit Peggy’s Place. This is a great spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch in Keystone.

You can order comfort food like chicken fried steak and a buffalo burger. The prices are high considering it’s near a tourist attraction, but we really enjoyed our meal here.

Needles formation on Needles Highway in South Dakota

Where to Stay in Keystone

There are plenty of places to stay in Keystone, South Dakota for all budgets. 

Our top favorite is Under Canvas Mt. Rushmore. You will be glamping in the gorgeous Black Hills scenery near Mt Rushmore. 

The Luxury tents here are popular with families as well as couples. You can enjoy s’mores by the campfire at night, star gaze, or hike on trails around the property. Book this hotel now. 

Other great options include the historic building with terrace at Roosevelt Inn Mount Rushmore or the K Bar S Lodge located inside the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve. It has great views of the landscape from its terrace.

Powder House Lodge is also an amazing place to stay and enjoy the nearby attractions. 

Another option is to stay in nearby Hill City at the charming Best Western Golden Spike Inn & Suites which has a great atmosphere and swimming pool. If you want a charming pine cabin with a balcony, then consider the Mountain View Lodge & Cabins. 

Click here to book your hotel near Mt. Rushmore National Memorial now. 

Entrance to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Mt Rushmore National Memorial

For most Americans, this is a highlight of the South Dakota road trip. 

One of the iconic images of America, Mount Rushmore is everyone’s travel bucket list.

Mount Rushmore is a behemoth sculpture of 4 US President heads carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore. 

It is located among the Black Hills of South Dakota and is fantastic to explore.

Completed in 1941, the Memorial was specifically planned and executed to bring visitors to South Dakota. 

Well, it has succeeded and how!

Today Mount Rushmore receives over two million visitors annually and is South Dakota’s top tourist attraction. 

The Memorial has also been featured in many movies, books, and other works of fiction.

The 60-foot sculptures of heads of US Presidents who are carved on the mountain include George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

The monument was carved by sculptor Gutzon Borglum with the help of his son Lincoln Borglum from 1927 to 1941.

Visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial is an amazing experience.

It is one of the best places to learn about the birth and growth of the USA. Our other top favorites include Washington DC, New York, and Philadelphia.

View of Mount Rushmore from the road

Things To Do At Mt. Rushmore

Contrary to what many people think, Mount Rushmore vacation is not just about seeing the sculpture from a distance, taking a few photos, and rushing off.

Sure, you could do that but you will be missing out on a lot. Consider below recommendations while planning a trip to Mount Rushmore.

The on-site museum has interesting information about the Memorial and there are many things to do around the sculpture.

The memorial is beautifully designed and planned. The Avenue of Flags contains all state and territories flags and the dates they were admitted to the Union.

The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center has many interactive exhibits and videos. Visitors can watch on film the methods used to carve the hard granite rock. 

Of course, you must hike the Presidential Trail. This is by far the #1 thing to do when visiting Mount Rushmore. 

Avenue of the Flags at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

The 0.5-mile-long trail goes around the base of the monument and has 422 stairs. Hiking the trail takes you up close to the sculpture.

On the trail, you can see the carvings from different vantage points. You can also spot wildlife on the trail including mountain goats and deer.

The memorial also has Junior Ranger programs and Evening Sculpture Lighting Ceremony.

We definitely recommend visiting towards the evening to see the sculpture lit up.

To explore other attractions at the memorial including George Washington’s favorite ice-cream, read our post Visitor’s Guide to Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Side view of Mount Rushmore

Optional – Black Hills Railroad

If you have more time – Consider a trip down a vintage 1880 Train from Keystone to Hill City, South Dakota!

The Black Hills Central Railroad was built back in the day to carry the gold found in the Black Hills. It later also serviced the mills and carried timber. The railroad is the oldest continuously operating railroad in the US. 

On the route, you can see views of Mt. Rushmore, the Black Elk Peak, and lots of wildlife. The trip is 2 hours long roundtrip and has an additional 15 minutes of layover. The depot in Hill City also has an adjacent train museum which is fun for the kids. 

Travel Tip – These scenic drives have many twists and turns and are not popular with those who get car sick. But do not miss out on the spectcaular scenery! You can drive at slow speeds (~10 – 12 mph) and take some Dramamine to make the trip smoother.

Black Hills Railroad Steam engine, South Dakota

Day 5: Black Hills Itinerary

Use this day for planning a trip to the Black Hills.

Wake up to a fresh day in Custer State Park, pack your tents, and enjoy the early morning sun filtering down the pine trees. 

Today, you will be exploring the many things to do in the Black Hills of South Dakota. 

There are many attractions in the Black Hills. We recommend picking your favorites and spending a day here to see them.

If you want to see everything in the area, then we recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in the Black Hills.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Also Read: 38 Amazing Things to do in the Black Hills of South Dakota

Wind Cave National Park

South Dakota’s Wind Cave National Park is one of the most underrated national parks in the country. 

Under the flat grassy prairies, lies the beautiful Wind Cave. This geological wonder is one of the largest and longest cave complexes in the world. 

Inside the cave, you can see intricate box work and frostwork calcite formations on a guided tour.  The caves’ complex, interconnected passages cause air to rush out from the openings, leading to its name, the Wind Cave. 

On the grasslands above the cave, you will find a variety of wildlife including elk, deer, and bison. 

Boxwork formations inside Fairgrounds Cave in Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota

The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs

The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs is famous with budding paleontologists for the large number of intact Columbian and woolly mammoth skeletons discovered in the on-site sinkhole. 

Visitors can view the active dig site on a self guided tour. Along with the Mammoth fossils, you can also see fossils and remnants of other Ice Age animals including sloths, camels, llama, and more. 

The Mammoth Site is an amazing interactive educational experience for the kids. 

Closeup of tusks of wooly mammoth at the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota

Optional: Jewel Cave National Monument

Jewel Cave, located in the Black Hills, is also famous for its intricate jewel-like calcite formations. 

Jewel Cave is the third longest cave in the world. Visitors can see the cave on a guided tour. There are tours of varying difficulty for all skill levels. 

The area around the cave also had many hiking trails and canyons, which are popular with outdoor explorers. You can also spot wildlife in the area. 

Optional: Black Elk Peak

Black Elk Peak is the tallest peak in South Dakota. It is located in the Black Hills and the trailhead begins in Custer State Park at Sylvan Lake. 

The climb to the top is strenuous but you are rewarded with stunning views of the area. A fire tower built by the CCC on top of the peak still stands. 

Black Elk Peak in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Optional: Black Hills National Forest

Black Hills National Forest is an amazing wonderland of pine trees, dense trailheads, spectacular wildlife, waterfalls, and recreation activities. 

We definitely recommend stopping at the Black Hills National Forest if you have the time. 

Travel Tip – This day and the attractions are entirely optional if you have only 7 days to see South Dakota. 

Day 6: Rapid City

Rapid City is one of the best cities to visit in South Dakota. We definitely recommend spending a day here to see all the tourist attractions, especially if you have kids. 

The many dinosaur themed attractions in the city make it very popular with families. Here are some of the best things to do in Rapid City. 

Dinosaur Park

Right in the middle of downtown, located on the top of a hill, you will find the Rapid City Dinosaur Park.

This park was built during the Great Depression era and is one of the oldest dinosaur attractions in America. 

Kids can climb the dinosaurs including T-Rex and Triceratops. The views of the city from the park are also pretty. 

Art Alley

If you love street art and murals, consider visiting Art Alley in Rapid City. 

This attraction is located between 6th and 7th Street on Main Street in downtown. It is located close to restaurants and shopping. 

Night sky while camping at Sage Creek in Badlands National Park in South Dakota

Here you will find the alley covered with vibrant, beautiful, and thought provoking artwork. The murals cover a variety of subjects and are very interesting. 

This spot is a great hit with those who love taking photos for Instagram. 

Museum of Geology

If you want to see even more dinosaurs, then visit the Museum of Geology. Here you will find a variety of fossils, skeletons, and other remains of the prehistoric beasts. 

Kids love seeing the almost complete skeletons of several dinosaurs. Other museum collections include gems and minerals, historic artifacts, and are fascinating to see. 

Plus the best part is that it is free, making it very popular with those on a budget. 

Reptile Gardens

Reptile Gardens Zoo in Rapid City is home to a variety of snakes, alligators, other reptiles, and animals. 

They have a lot of amazing exhibits and the zoo is a great place to visit for the whole family.  Kids enjoy seeing the prairie dogs, turtles, crocodiles, alligators, snakes, and bald eagles at the zoo. 

We recommend about one and half to two hours to see the zoo. 

Chapel in the Hills

If you like seeing unique buildings, then visit the Chapel in the Hills in Rapid City, South Dakota. 

This chapel is modeled after the famous Borgund stavkirke in Laerdal, an original stave church in the Norwegian style of architecture.  

The exact replica has many beautiful architectural features, rich wood carving, and is a very beautiful building. 

Teepees or tents of the Oglala Lakota and Sioux tribes at Badlands National park

South Dakota Air & Space Museum

The South Dakota Air and Space Museum is located just outside the Ellsworth Air Force Base in the Black Hills. 

The museum has a large collection of aviation exhibits including vintage aircrafts, bombers, nuclear missiles, and more. 

The museum is free and a fun thing to do for aviation and aircraft lovers. 

Where to stay in Rapid City

We recommend staying close to Downtown Rapid City. 

Popular hotel chains in this area include Best Western Rapid City Rushmore or Holiday Inn Rapid City – Rushmore Plaza or Staybridge Suites Rapid City. 

Courtyard By Marriott or Residence Inn by Mariott is also a great choice for families due to their spacious suites with sofa beds. 

We have also enjoyed our stay at Best Western Ramkota in the past. However, this is one of the most popular budget friendly chains and we definitely recommend advance reservations. 

If you like independent and boutique hotels, then try the Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City. This historic hotel has charming architecture and an on-site Irish pub! It is especially popular with couples looking for a romantic getaway. 

Grand Gateway Hotel with its indoor pool and a waterslide is great for families. However, it gets sold out pretty fast for popular weekends so book now. 

If you want to stay near the Rapid City Regional Airport, then good nearby hotels include Baymont By Wyndham and Home2 Suites by Hilton. 

Sunset at Badlands National park in South Dakota

Day 7: Deadwood & Spearfish Canyon

Today, you will enjoy the many things to do near Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.

Spend the day in Historic Deadwood. Watch a shootout reenactment on the Main Street, visit the Deadwood cemetery, and see the Tatanka bison sculpture. Then drive down Spearfish Canyon and enjoy the waterfalls. End your day trip at the Motorcycle Museum in Sturgis. 

Deadwood

Historic Deadwood is one of the most fun things to do in South Dakota. This Wild West Town was established in 1876 when gold was discovered in the Black Hills of South Dakota. 

It attracted many popular Wild West heroes including Calamity Jane and Wild Bill. Violence, gun fights, and bar brawls were common and Deadwood was a dangerous place to be. 

The mining town was abandoned after the Gold Rush and has been converted into a popular tourist attraction. 

Visitors can enjoy a trip to Deadwood and admire the historic buildings, gamble in a casino, visit a museum, see the graves of Wild West heroes in the Deadwood cemetery and watch a reenactment of the shoot out. 

Spending a day in Deadwood is great fun and definitely one of the amazing things to do in South Dakota. 

Main Street of Historic Deadwood, South Dakota

Tatanka Bison Sculpture

A few miles away from Downtown Deadwood, you will find the Tatanka Bison Sculpture. Commissioned by Kevin Costner, the sculpture pays tribute to the Native American legacy and culture. 

Spearfish Canyon

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is one of the best scenic drives in South Dakota. 

The road is 22 miles long and takes about 2 hours to drive considering the attractions. You will be driving along the curving Spearfish Creek. 

The route has many scenic vistas, overlooks, picnic areas, trailheads, and waterfalls. Bridalveil Falls, Roughlock Falls, and Spearfish Falls are most popular to visit. 

The road is stunning in fall when trees lining the canyon floor turn color. You can also bike the canyon or drive a motorcycle to enjoy its scenic vistas. 

View along Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway in Black Hills of South Dakota

Optional: Sturgis

If you have more time, consider visiting Sturgis, South Dakota. The city is famous for its annual motorcycle rally. 

Visit the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame to see vintage bikes and memorabilia. History lovers will enjoy the Old Fort Meade Museum and its many interesting exhibits. 

That’s it! Return back to Rapid City for your flight home after the awesome South Dakota road trip. 

Next Step: Book Your Trip

Click here to Book hotels in South Dakota now

If you have less time: Western South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary 4 Days

Visitors can also complete this Great American road trip in less time by focusing on a Mount Rushmore road trip. 

If you are short on time, we would recommend 4 Days in South Dakota road trip itinerary as follows. You will be seeing the top 3 attractions of Mt Rushmore, Badlands, and Black Hills. 

Spearfish Falls in Spearfish Canyon, South Dakota

Rapid City – 1 Day

Rapid City is the closest airport to Mount Rushmore. Use this as your base for visiting South Dakota on a tight timeline. 

Spend a day in the city, pick up your rental car, and visit Rapid City’s top attractions including Dinosaur Park, Art Alley, and Reptile Gardens. 

Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse – 1 Day

The next day, make your way to Keystone to see Mt Rushmore. 

See the carved sculptures and the visitor center, hike the Presidential Trail, and spend some time in downtown Keystone. 

Then visit the Crazy Horse Memorial and understand about the Lakota Culture. Stay the night at Custer. 

Custer State Park Scenic Drives & Minuteman Missile Site – 1 Day

On this day, spend time in Custer State Park. Drive the scenic drives of Wildlife Loop Road, Iron Mountain Road, and the Needles Highway. 

See the state’s amazing wildlife and be enchanted by the tunnels and bridges along the way. Hike inside the state park and go for a swim in the lakes. 

See the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site and stay in the town of Wall. 

Badlands National Park & Wall Drug – 1 Day

End your trip at Badlands National Park. Drive the Badlands Loop Road to enjoy the dramatic vistas from the overlooks. Hike the park trails to get closer to the geological formations. 

Also see Wall Drug along the way and drink it’s 5 cent coffee. Head back to Rapid City for your return flight. 

4 Day South Dakota road trip will be hectic but possible. However we do not recommend keeping any less time for this road trip. 

Some other alternatives to shortening your itinerary include skipping the day in Black Hills or seeing the attractions in eastern part of the state on a separate trip if you have 5 to 6 days. 

You can also start your trip in Sioux Falls and drive straight to the Black Hills. The distance from Sioux Falls to Mount Rushmore is 5 hrs 30 mins or 370 miles. 

Views of the Badlands from the Badlands Loop Road

If you have more time: South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days to 2 Weeks

We have a couple of more South Dakota Vacation Ideas for those who like slow travel and enjoy experiencing more off the beaten path attractions. 

The state has enough attractions to keep you busy for months. Custer State Park alone is worth a week-long trip for the entire family.

2 Weeks in South Dakota

For this detailed South Dakota itinerary, see all the attractions in the state, including the most underrated ones that we have listed above as optional. 

Experience a shootout in Historic Deadwood and enjoy the underground geological formations at Jewel Cave National Monument. Take the Black Hills Railroad from Keystone to Hill City. 

For more adventure, take the hiking trail to the top of Black Elk Peak, the tallest point in South Dakota. See the Reptile Gardens in Rapid City. 

Road trip through the granite spires of Needles Highway, then spend time camping at Custer. Drive the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway and enjoy the waterfalls along the way. 

Spot wildlife including bighorn sheep in Black Hill National Forest and see the Minuteman Missile near Wall Drug. 

Let the kids experience a day as a paleontologist at Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, then take them to climb the dinosaurs at Dinosaur Park in Downtown Rapid City. 

You can also consider a trip along the southeastern part of the state near Yankton & Vermilion. The major attractions here include the following:

For Illustrative purposes only – Motorcycle museum and Hall of Fame, Sturgis, South Dakota

Lewis & Clark National Recreation Area

In Yankton, along the banks of the Missouri, you will find the Lewis and Clark National Recreation Area.

The park has an excellent campground and great scenery.  The lake is also beautiful and the area and its variety of outdoor recreation activities are popular with families. 

National Music Museum, Vermilion

Vermilion’s National Music Museum is one of the hidden treasures in South Dakota. 

This is said to be one of the best music museums in the US and has a variety of musical instruments from different countries and continents. 

The collection spans hundreds of years and you can see vintage musical instruments from many countries. The museum is a must visit attraction for those who love music. 

Or you can see the Petrified Wood Museum in Lemmon near the northern border. 

Petrified Wood Museum, Lemmon

In northern South Dakota, you will find the town of Lemmon. A major attraction here is the Petrified Wood Park and Museum located in the center of the town.

The park was built by the town men during the Great Depression. They used the nearby Petrified Wood fossils to create a beautiful rock garden. 

Visitors can see a variety of sculptures including a castle, wishing well, fountain, and conical trees. Inside the museum, you will find historic artifacts and exhibits from the pioneer era. 

Fossilized skeletons at Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota

South Dakota Wyoming Road Trip

Many visitors plan a combined road trip to South Dakota and Wyoming. This is certainly feasible if you have more time. 

You can easily see highlights such as Yellowstone and Devil’s Monument. 

Devil’s Tower National Monument

One of the best ways to spend more time in the region is to combine it with a trip to Wyoming and see Devil’s Tower National Monument. 

Devil’s Tower National Monument in Wyoming is located just a little over 1 hour 30 minutes away from Rapid City, South Dakota. The distance is about 110 miles. 

This iconic butte located in the Black Hills of northeastern Wyoming is a unique granite formation. It rises 1267 feet above the surrounding landscape and looks stunning in pictures. 

This is the very first national monument to be established in America. Visitors can hike the trails around the base of the monument while rock climbers can attempt to reach the very top. 

A lot of Native American legends surround the Devil’s Tower making it a sacred place for the indigenous people.

Yellowstone National Park prismatic spring in Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park

For even more amazing natural wonders, visit the geothermal playground of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. 

It is 9 hrs away from Rapid City and one of the top visited national parks in the country. There are many things to do in Yellowstone. 

See the Old Faithful geyser erupt or go on the park’s scenic drives. Have amazing wildlife encounters or enjoy hiking in the area. Spot bubbling sulphur pools and take a dip in a hot spring in the park. 

Grand Teton National Park

Also located in Wyoming, south of Yellowtsone you will find the beautiful Grand Tetons. 

This national park has stunning scenery, jaw dropping mountain views, amazing hikes, abundant wildlife, and gorgeous fall colors. 

The panorama of snow capped mountain peaks and lush green valleys are a stark contrast to the mixed grass prairies of South Dakota. 

Reflection lake in Grand Tetons National Park in Wyoming

Best of Dakotas Road Trip

For the truly unbeaten path, consider extending your South Dakota vacation itinerary to North Dakota and Medora. 

Medora

This charming mountain town is the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the North Dakota Badlands. 

Enjoy your trip to Medora with a quick stroll around the town. Seethe historic buildings, many souvenir shops, and the Western vibe of this place. 

End your day with the amazing Medora musical and steak fondue dinner. This amazing show dedicated to the life and legacy of FDR is absolutely must see. 

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Spend a day hiking in Theodore Roosevelt National park and experience the difference in North Dakota’s badlands and South Dakota’s badlands. 

See the bison and wild horses in the park. Understand Roosevelt’s legacy at the visitor center. 

There are several other things to do in the park including panoramic outlooks and unique geological formations. 

Charming town of Medora, North Dakota

Dickinson

Visit the nearby town of Dickinson and the amazing Badlands Dinosaur museum with kids. 

This is honestly one of the best dinosaur museums in the country and has complete skeletons of many prehistoric beasts. Their gem collection is also great.

Dickinson also has great street art and murals as well as many cool restaurants.

Next Step: Book Your Trip

Click here to Book hotels in South Dakota now

More Destination Guides

Read our South Dakota travel guides below to plan your trip now

Badlands National Park Guide

Mt Rushmore Guide

Custer State Park Guide

We hope you liked our guide to the ultimate road trip to South Dakota. Do you need any more information for trip planning? Let us know in the comments.

Summer Term | South Dakota State University

SDSU offers a variety of courses throughout the summer for students to continue their studies. Wondering what courses are available? Browse for summer classes on Self-Service.

2021 Summer Term

Note: Some courses have different start, end, drop, and withdraw dates; View full list of these details.

Browse for Online Summer Classes

Getting Started.

Current SDSU Student

If you are a current SDSU student, please utilize your academic advisor and Banner self-service to register for summer courses.

Currently Admitted as a New Student for Fall 2021

Contact the Office of Admissions at 605-688-4121 to adjust your start term at SDSU from fall 2021 to summer 2021. The Office of Admissions will assist through advising and registration ahead of your New Student Orientation program this summer

Degree-Seeking

Interested in getting started at SDSU this summer and pursuing your degree? Apply to SDSU now as a degree-seeking student.

What you’ll need:

Completed Admission Application

• Choose your degree path and intention within the application
• Indicate location as main campus or online
• Submit transcripts necessary based on your past education
• Submit $20 application fee

 

APPLY NOW

Non-Degree Seeking

Interested in taking an online course through SDSU but not a full program? This is the place for you. We have a wide variety of courses available online that you may take for professional development or just for fun. Apply to SDSU as a non-degree seeking student. (Not eligible for financial aid.)

What you’ll need:

Completed Admissions Application

• Choose “I do not plan to pursue a degree and will be taking courses as a non-degree seeking student. I understand that this educational goal does not qualify me to receive federal financial aid.”
• Indicate location as “Online”
• An application fee is not required for non-degree seeking students

 

APPLY NOW

Financing Your Summer Term

To apply for summer financial aid, first make sure you filed the FAFSA for the upcoming school year and the results have been sent to SDSU (code 003471). You must also complete the Summer Financial Aid Application (available in March) and return it to the Financial Aid Office.

For registration questions email CDE or call 605-688-4154.

Summer Camp Programs For Teens in South Dakota 2021

South Dakota | SmarterTravel

The most popular time to visit South Dakota is during the summer, between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when families are able to take vacations. Winter is the least popular time for general tourism, but is peak for skiers, snowmobilers, and other snow sports enthusiasts. Spring and fall are in-between seasons that have varying weather, but can be ideal times to visit due to fewer crowds or lower prices.

high season: lateMay to early-September
low season: November to mid–May
shoulder season: mid-September to October

December through March is also high season for winter sports areas.

Weather Information

South Dakota has a four-season climate, with temperature highs ranging from the 40s to the 90s and lows from below zero to the 60s, depending on the season. Summer, from mid-June through mid-September, is generally warm and sometimes hot during the day and cooler at night. Fall starts out warm, but gets crisp and cool by November. Winter, from December through early March can be cold with plenty of snow. Spring is typically the rainy season, but it can see snow as well as plenty of sunshine.

Crowd Information

South Dakota sees the most crowds during the peak summer months, particularly during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which brings 500,000+ motorcycle enthusiasts to the state.

Closure Information

Some attractions close down during the winter, but re-open in the spring.

When to Save

South Dakota is consistently ranked as one of the least-expensive places to visit. However, costs are higher later in the summer as the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally during the second week of August begins. The cheapest time to visit is the fall through spring.

When to Book

Book as soon as possible for hotels and car rentals to ensure availability. Airfare prices fluctuate, so it’s always best to check with travel agents and the Internet to find the best deals.

Information provided by the South Dakota Office of Tourism

Calvin Coolidge’s Black Hills Summer

While in South Dakota, Silent Cal took a ride in a lumber wagon.

President Coolidge and his wife, Grace, vacationed in South Dakota for three months at the State Game Lodge.

President Coolidge arrived at a dedication ceremony for Mount Rushmore in a suit mounted on Mistletoe.

First Lady Grace Coolidge brought the couple’s two collies, Rob Roy and Prudence Prim, and pet raccoon, Rebecca, along with them on their South Dakota vacation.

The State Game Lodge at Custer State Park served as the summer White House while the Coolidges vacationed there.

During the president’s visit, this peak was renamed Mount Coolidge and a creek became Grace Coolidge Creek.

By Roger Holtzmann

THEY CALLED HIM “The Man Who Hates Everything,” and no one ever did more to deserve their reputation. H.L. Mencken, writer, social critic and professional deflator popular during the 1920s, made a living lambasting ministers, doctors, Southerners, teachers, his fellow newspaperman and just about everyone else in the country. So when he took aim at President Calvin Coolidge no one was likely very surprised at what came from his toxic typewriter. “Coolidge’s chief feat,” wrote Mencken, “was to sleep more than any other president.” Not only was he lazy, but the President’s perpetually dour expression seemed to indicate he had been “weaned on a pickle.”

People expected that from Mencken. But it was difficult to find anybody who had really good things to say about President Coolidge. “In appearance he was stupendously null,” remembered one of his neighbors, “as if he was lacking in red corpuscles.” Shy, lacking in social graces, almost totally devoid of wit — Coolidge was all of those, and less. To the people at large he was Silent Cal, a stern, no nonsense Vermont Yankee who spoke as if he expected to live 100 years, but feared he had mistakenly been given only enough words to last half that long. Among the nation’s opinion makers he was considered an incredible dullard, if not a fool. He was popular with the business community, but that was chiefly for his stolid determination not to do anything that might rock the economy; he was a chief executive, said one congressman “who raised inertia almost to the level of a way of life.” But it fell to Dorothy Parker’s acid tongue to deliver the unkindest cut of all. In 1933, when she was informed that the ex-president was dead, her response was, “How do they know?”

Obvious though his shortcomings might be, he was still the President of the United States. Which meant newspapers took note of whatever he was doing and wherever he was doing it. And that gave some people from South Dakota an idea. Looking for a way to publicize the Black Hills nationally, Sen. Peter Norbeck and a number of others hit upon the idea of inviting President Coolidge for a visit. And by a fortuitous combination of circumstances, Silent Cal accepted.

In the days before air conditioning, summer reminded residents of Washington, D.C., that their city had been built on a swamp. It was usually hot, muggy and uncomfortable. Everyone who could left town for as much of the season as possible. Coolidge, whose bronchitis was aggravated by these conditions, suffered more than most. In 1925 he had escaped to the Massachusetts shore; the following year found him in New York’s Adirondack Mountains; for the summer of 1927 he resolved to vacation somewhere “west of the Allegheny’s and east of the Rockies.”

That was South Dakota’s signal to launch an all-out offensive aimed at convincing Coolidge to choose the Black Hills. The state Legislature passed a resolution formally inviting the president on Jan. 7, 1927, and in the words of Rex Alan Smith, ‘‘they spared no adjectives when drafting it, and indulged in no false modesty.” There was mention of lofty peaks, magnificent forests, sparkling streams and an “ideal” climate, of course, but also, “splendid fishing, golf, polo and tennis.” To tie it all up neatly the Legislature sought to assure Coolidge that the stories of gunslingers and ladies of the evening were all in the Black Hills’ past. “The population in and about the mountains,” they declared, “is intelligent and moral.”

When Sen. Norbeck delivered the invitation, Coolidge was suitably impressed, resulting in one of the few instances of wit recorded during his administration. “Senator,” he observed dryly, “I can’t tell whether this is a chapter from Revelations or Mohammed’s idea of the seventh heaven.” True to his nature, though, the president said nothing further that day.

His frustrating silence continued for two months. In the spring, one of South Dakota’s two congressmen, William Williamson, met with the president to present the state’s case yet again.

“How are the flies and mosquitoes out there?” Coolidge asked.

“In the mountains proper, few or none,” replied Williamson.

“That’s good,” said Coolidge. “Last place I went they nearly pestered me to death.”

It seems the Legislature should have dispensed with all that chatter about scenery in their invitation and concentrated on the insects. Another advantage that they neglected to mention was the relative lack of people in the Hills. Coolidge had been annoyed on other trips by crowds who gathered to gawk at him. He was pleased that Rapid City, population 8,000 and the only town of any size in the area, was a considerable train and automobile ride from where he was going to be staying.

Before the final decision was made, Coolidge dispatched Colonel Edward Starling, head of the White House Secret Service detail, to inspect the facilities. Starling left the state after two days without a clue as to what he thought of the place, and once again the White House was silent.

For the next month there were almost daily news stories speculating on whether or not the president was actually coming. There wasn’t a word from Washington until May 27, when Colonel Starling and several assistants arrived unannounced at the Rapid City train station. Later that day every major newspaper in the state received a telegram from Sen. Norbeck’s office; in their next editions, using type generally reserved for a declaration of war or the seventh game of the World Series, the headlines blared, “President Coolidge To Arrive June 16!”

Preparations for the president’s visit had started long before anyone knew if he was even coming for sure. Now that it was confirmed, things went into high gear. Coolidge’s home while in South Dakota was to be the State Game Lodge in Custer State Park. The president and his wife would stay in the Governor’s Suite, which was a bedroom and private sitting room, with a bathroom down the hall. A new coat of paint was applied inside and out, and a sawmill on the grounds was moved two miles over the hill so as not to spoil the presidential view. Extra lines were strung to handle the increased telephone traffic, the lodge was primped and swept one last time, and everyone hoped that nothing had been forgotten. Colonel Starling pronounced himself satisfied.

Coolidge traveled with his wife Grace, staff members, Secret Service agents, three dozen or so newspaper reporters, the first family’s two collies, Rob Roy and Prudence Prim, and Mrs. Coolidge’s pet raccoon, Rebecca, who lived in a wicker basket. As the train passed into the state at Elkton, the party was joined by Sen. Norbeck and as many other local notables as could wrangle an invitation. An elderly gentleman, not part of the official delegation, climbed aboard in Lake Preston to pay his respects and the train pulled out of the station before anyone noticed.

After yet another formal reception in Pierre with Gov. Bulow and friends, the Coolidges arrived at Rapid City late in the afternoon. The local National Guard band played “Hail to the Chief,” probably the first and only time it ever rendered that particular tune, while artillery on the Box Elder firing range thundered a 21-gun salute. There was a dance at the Alfalfa Palace that evening, but Cal and Grace had a quiet supper of elk steak at the lodge and then retired.

Early the next morning Coolidge prepared to set out for his summer office in Rapid City. Some South Dakotans who hoped to establish the Black Hills as a fishing haven intercepted him, and they had made their plans well. Though the president was reluctant at first they convinced him to try his luck in Squaw Creek. Wearing a suit and straw boater, no angler in history ever looked the part less, or had a better chance to catch fish. His hosts did everything but throw the trout in his basket for him.

About a mile above and below the lodge park officials had installed fishnets across the creek. Into this pen they had dumped more than 2,000 trout from the state fish hatchery in Spearfish. These were not small fry, either. They were “tired old breeding trout … (that) the hatchery had been planning to gel rid of anyway,” wrote Rex Alan Smith. “Years of lazy living on ground liver and horsemeat had left them fat and flabby. But they were big, fearless and eminently catchable.”

Gov. Bulow, who was in on the plan from the very beginning, would pay for his sins. He and his wife were invited to the lodge for supper one evening and the main course was trout, which, the president proudly explained, he had caught in the creek. “(From) the first bite I took,” Bulow recalled, “I could taste the liver and horsemeat on which that trout had lived for years ….” President Coolidge did not seem to mind, though, and the fishing was a good part of why his planned three-week vacation in South Dakota ended up lasting three months.

There was one other person in the Hills that summer who was scheming to use the president’s presence for his own purposes, and that was Gutzon Borglum. Rushmore’s sculptor was well aware of how the publicity surrounding a presidential visit could help his project; it might even push Coolidge to endorse the idea of appropriating federal funds for the carving, which Borglum hoped would free him from his perpetual need to raise money.

Borglum decided to hold a dedication ceremony on Aug. 10. He had already dedicated the mountain in 1925, but Borglum never let logic get in the way of a good time. It was typical of him that he scheduled the event before asking the guest of honor to attend. It probably did not occur to him that the President of the United States might have something to do other than attend a Borglum event. He was not even deterred by the fact that Coolidge had repeatedly let it be known he did not wish to make any formal public appearances while on vacation.

Borglum’s opening shot was dramatic, romantic, slightly foolish, dangerous and couldn’t have been more ill-timed. He hired Clyde Ice, the famous barnstorming pilot from Spearfish, to fly him over the lodge at low altitude; at the appropriate moment Borglum pitched a large flower wreath from the open cockpit onto the lawn. “Greetings from Mount Rushmore to Mount Coolidge!” announced the card that accompanied this sky borne bouquet.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t the ideal time. President Coolidge had summoned General Leonard Wood, governor-general of the Philippines, to South Dakota for consultations. At the very moment Borglum came roaring overhead the general and his commander-in- chief were seated on the verandah discussing the possibility that an insurrection could flare up in the islands. History has not recorded Coolidge’s reaction, though it is unlikely the strait-laced president appreciated being bombed with flowers during an important meeting.

Coolidge eventually consented to attend the dedication ceremony. The last mile up to Rushmore at the time was little more than a muddy trail, and on the day of the ceremony one of the autos became impossibly stuck, blocking the way. President Coolidge was forced to use alternate transportation, and so, wearing a business suit, a 10-gallon cowboy hat and fringed, white leather gloves, he arrived for the ceremony on horseback. The assembled citizens loved it, as did their president.

Silent Cal and Grace left town a month later, with rather less ceremony than when they arrived. As it turned out, the single biggest news of the summer turned out to be something Coolidge decided not to do. Around 30 newspaper reporters comprised the White House press corps, and by Aug. 2 they were frankly bored with Rapid City. When Coolidge invited them all into his office, their curiosity was aroused. As soon as they were all present Coolidge handed each of them a slip of paper, on which was typed a single line. “I do not choose to run for president in nineteen twenty-eight.” For a moment the group was shocked into silence. No one in the entire country had expected such an announcement. Finally someone asked the President of the United States if he had anything else to add.

“No,” he replied. And having said that, he left.

Editor’s Note: This story is revised from the March/April 1996 issue of  South Dakota Magazine. To order a copy or to subscribe, call 800-456-5117.

South Dakota is the All-American Summer Road Trip

Content produced in partnership with South Dakota Department of Tourism

South Dakota is one of the last great places in America. A state frozen in time with quirky roadside attractions, antiques shops, homey cafes,
saloons, and barns standing as street markers on the wide open highways. It’s a scene that looks to be straight out of an Old Western. You’ll pass rows of antlers for sale, wineries with kooky names, and rusted model T’s pass you by, making you nostalgic for America’s heyday. Whatever kind of tastemaker or traveler you are, a road trip through South Dakota will be full of surprises at every turn.

The Adventure Seeker

Beginning in the southwest corner of the state, the Black Hills and the Badlands are ripe for exploration. Drive the Needles Highway through Custer State Park, stopping to kayak or fish in Sylvan Lake or tackle Harney Peak, the state’s highest overlook, which offers views of three surrounding states. When you’re ready to move on, head north through historic Deadwood (which boasts plenty of Wild West photo opps) to Spearfish Canyon, another scenic byway that just so happens to be a mecca of rock climbing and mountain biking. There are easy 1-mile waterfall hikes like Roughlock Falls, but if you’re looking to challenge yourself, there are plenty of longer canyon jaunts, too.

The Bucket Lister

“The Great 8” encompasses the iconic, must-see attractions in South Dakota, and thankfully, many of them are clustered together so it’s fairly easy to see them all in one trip. On your way to the Badlands, mosey on by Wall Drug, one of the world’s most famous roadside stops since 1921. A quirky shop that began its legacy by offering free ice water to thirsty drivers, it is now better known for its tasty maple donuts as a way to fuel up for the park visit. From there, head west toward the Black Hills where you’ll get all the feels at Mount Rushmore and the even-more-massive Crazy Horse. When you stop to explore Jewel and Wind Caves, you will come to realize that what’s below ground is just as magical as what’s above it in this corner of the globe.

The Family Trip

Dinosaurs, the great outdoors, and animals are all part of the recipe for an epic family vacation in South Dakota. Drive the 18-mile Wildlife Scenic Byway through Custer State Park to get a look at the 1,300-head buffalo herd that calls the area home as they trounce and trample right up next to your vehicle. You can veg out at the seemingly endless Stockade Lake, or get an adrenaline rush on a UTV (an ATV that can accommodate multiple passengers) through the Black Hills. When you’re ready, head east toward the Badlands for a fascinating look at one of the richest fossil beds the world. If you’re feeling scholarly, participate in a dinosaur dig or get the bird’s-eye view of the area from a hot air balloon.

The Cultural Connoisseur

The state’s two biggest cities are on opposite ends of the state about five hours apart, but Sioux Falls and Rapid City are the cultural hubs of South Dakota. For a taste of the arts, check out Dahl Arts Center or Prairie Edge Trading Co. and Galleries to learn about the Native American culture of the region. Or, to get a taste of the local scene, eat and drink your way around town at the numerous breweries and wineries. Rapid City boasts bronze sculptures of all 42 U.S. Presidents and quirky roadside attractions like Dinosaur Park and Storybrook Island for fairytale lovers, while an hour outside Sioux Falls is the ever memorable Corn Palace.

South Dakota State Nature | US Encyclopedia

South Dakota is located in the Middle
western United States and belongs to the northwestern central states of the United States. South Dakota Area – 199,905
km ² (seventeenth place among the states of the United States).

South Dakota borders the states of Minnesota to the east,
Iowa in the southeast, Nebraska in the south
Wyoming in the southwest, Montana in the northwest, and
North Dakota in the north.

East South Dakota is part of the US Central Time Zone, Western Counties are part of
Mountain time zone.

On the territory of South Dakota, there are three main physical and geographical regions – lowlands in the east, Great Plains in the west
and the Black Hills mountain range. The natural border between the first two is the Missouri River, which is why the eastern counties are often called
East River (“east of the river”), and the west – West River (respectively “west of the river”).

All of East South Dakota is part of
Central Plains USA. Northeast South Dakota is a river valley
Minnesota, a slightly hilly lowland with very fertile soils. To the south, a low plateau rises above the surrounding area.
Coto de Prairie, along which many small lakes are scattered.Several national reserves have been created here, protecting vast
wetlands. In the southeast of the state (as well as in neighboring Nebraska and Iowa) there is a region of the so-called “cut plains”,
glacier-smoothed gentle hills.

To the west, behind the almost flat, but heavily indented by erosion valley of the James River, the slopes of another plateau rise –
the Missouri Plateau (or Coteau du Missouri).

West of the Missouri River, the terrain gradually rises (about 900 meters above sea level) and becomes much more
hilly and rugged.Much of the East River region is part of the Great Plains, stretching from Canada to
Texas. In the southwest of South Dakota lies the “badlands” (“bad lands”) region. Located
here the National Park is very popular with tourists due to its unusual and very picturesque landscapes.

Both the East Rivers and the West Rivers of South Dakota are grassy and almost treeless steppes, trees are found here only
in the river valleys. The prairies of the state are home to bison, deer, pronghorns, coyotes, prairie dogs, dozens of bird species (including
the US symbol bird, the bald eagle).

In the west of South Dakota, on the border with Wyoming, there is a region sharply different from the rest of the state – Black Hills
(“Black Hills”). This is a relatively small (about 200 km from north to south and 100 km from west to east) mountain range, but it is here
are the largest mountains in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains, including the highest point in South Dakota – Harney Peak (2,208 meters
above sea level).

The Black Hills Mountains are covered with forests (mostly coniferous), in which moose, various types of deer, pronghorns, snow goats live,
bighorns, cougars and other animals.

There are several huge caves in the Black Hills, including the second longest in the world (after
Mammoth in Kentucky) Jewel Cave (more
250 km) and the fifth longest Wind Cave (over 220 km). Both of them are protected by the state, in addition, it is in this region that the famous
Mount Rushmore and the largest state-managed Custer Park, famous for its huge (about one and a half thousand heads) herd
bison.

South Dakota has a continental climate with long cold winters, hot summers and short but pronounced springs and
in the fall. The western regions of the state are arid, with much more rainfall in the east, mostly in summer.

In South Dakota’s largest city in the southeast, Sioux Falls, average January temperatures range from -16 ° C to -4 ° C, and
July – from 16 ° C to 30 ° C.In the central districts of the state, in particular in its capital city of Pierre, in the coldest month, the temperature is usually
stays in the range from -14 ° C to -2 ° C, and in the hottest – from 17 ° C to 32 ° C. In the west, in the city of Rapid City, in winter from -12 ° C to 1 ° C, and
in summer – from 14 ° C to 30 ° C.

The eastern part of South Dakota is located on the “tornado alley”, here often, up to thirty times a
year, destructive whirlwinds sweep.

South Dakota, USA – Planet of Hotels travel guide

Pyrrhus is the state capital, located on the hilly banks of the Missouri River.Just a few kilometers from the city is the Oahe Reservoir, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. It is a small provincial town with a population of only about 13,000 people. There are no special attractions in it – several museums, the Aquarium and the South Dakota Discovery Center, where students can practice natural history. Pierre Regional Airport is located near Pyrrhus, which connects the state with Minneapolis, Denver and some European countries.

Sioux Falls is the largest city in the state and the capital of Minnehaha County.Its main architectural attraction is the old courthouse. Inside there is a museum, whose exhibitions tell about the history and cultural traditions of the region. The city has many recreational areas and parks, the largest of which is Falls Park. There are many cycling and hiking trails here, there is a very beautiful waterfall. In the evening, its territory sparkles brightly with original lighting, and in the afternoon, locals love to have picnics on green lawns. If you’re visiting Sioux Falls in winter, be sure to visit the Great Bear Park on the outskirts of town.It is a great place for walking, skiing and snow games. There is also entertainment for children – the Corn Palace, built from the cobs of this plant. Inside the beautiful fairytale house there are many interesting exhibits for kids. You can also go to the Great Plains Zoo and visit the Butterfly House & Aquarium, which is home to colorful butterflies and inhabitants of the underwater world. Nature lovers and hikers should head to the Big Siu State Recreation Area. This is a huge park through which the river of the same name flows.Cycling and canoeing are popular here, and there are well-equipped campgrounds for tourists. Southwest of Sioux Falls, Good Earth State Park is considered one of the best in South Dakota. It carefully preserves the ecosystem of the Midwest prairies, and has a small cultural center that tells about the life of the indigenous population.

Rapid City is a city on the edge of Black Hills National Park, near the famous Mount Rushmore Monument. For many travelers, it becomes the main base from where it is convenient to get to the most interesting monuments and natural attractions of the region.First of all, these are Badlands National Park and the Black Hills Caves, the Air and Space Museum, the Chapel in the Mountains (a copy of the Borgund Church), and the Bear Country USA Wildlife Park. In the city itself, it is worth visiting the Travel Museum, dedicated to the history of the sacred Black Hills, the Sioux Indian Museum and the unique Art Walk. Anyone can leave their autograph here, but for this, you first have to obtain special permission. For children, Rapid City has two interesting amusement parks – Skyline Wilderness Area Park with giant dinosaur sculptures, and the fabulous Island of History.Also, many will be interested in visiting the Exhibition of the Founding Fathers of America and the Museum of Geology, which offers interesting and informative excursions into the world of the distant past of these lands.

Aberdeen is located in northeastern South Dakota, in the James and Moccasin Creek Valley. The city has a lot of sports grounds for hockey, volleyball, tennis and golf. The Wylie Parks, Kuhnert Arboretum, and Storybook Land are available for strolls and fun. Not far from the city is the artificial Richmond Lake – people come here to go boating, fishing, and admire the wildlife of South Dakota during horseback riding.

Watertown is the seat of Codington County. Tourists come here to visit the art gallery of Terry Redlin, the famous American artist. Since its opening in 1997, it has received nearly two million visitors. Another important landmark of the city is the home of the first governor of South Dakota, Arthur Mellet. In addition, Watertown has an interesting local history museum that presents the historical and cultural heritage of Codington County. There are many recreation areas in the vicinity where visitors like to spend their time.The most popular are Sandy Shore Lakes, Pelican Lake and Campesca Beaches.

Brookings is the fourth largest city and educational center. He owes this title to the University of South Dakota – the largest educational institution in the state. Not far from the city, on the James River, the low-level Dakota Lake Dam has been built. Dakota National Park is located on the territory of Dam Lake formed with its help – a refuge for hundreds of thousands of coastal and waterfowl. The lake is closed for public use, but you can observe its inhabitants from the area around public roads.There is another nature reserve nearby, which is open to the public – the beautiful Larson Park. where there are recreation areas, jogging and cycling paths. The chain of lakes provides opportunities for excellent fishing, kayaking, kayaking and canoeing. In Brookings, there is a statewide famous horror attraction – Fear Asylum Haunted House. This place is very popular with tourists, especially on the eve of Halloween. It is designed for people with strong nerves – children and especially impressionable people will be very scared here.Brookings has a pretty good museum – the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum. It contains an interesting collection of machinery and equipment dedicated to agriculture in South Dakota. For example, one of the first models of tractors, more reminiscent of a small steam locomotive, old devices for farming, an interactive weather stand.

South Dakota: State Information

South Dakota is a US state located in the Midwest of the country. The main city of the state is Pyrrhus. The population is approximately 834 thousand people.The total area of ​​the state is approximately 200 thousand square kilometers. In the east, the state has a common border with Minnesota, in the west with the states of Montana and Wyoming, in the north with the state of North Dakota and in the south with the state of Nebraska. It has been the fortieth US state since 1889.

What to visit

Mount Rushmore is definitely the state’s landmark. The mountain is famous all over the world because portraits of the greatest presidents of the United States: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln are carved on top of the granite rock.The height of this work of art is almost 19 meters and was made by the famous sculptor Hudson Borglum. It took 14 long years to create the masterpiece.

At the foot of the Great Plains lies the Badlands National Park, renowned for its intricate networks of ravines and watersheds. The River White contains large clay layers and a wide variety of combustible rocks. The fossilized, dried layers can continue to burn for many years. The clay layers are fired in the sun and the color becomes similar to red brick.The walls in the gorges change color over time from yellow to gold and from pinkish to bright red

The city of Sturgis has been hosting a world-class motorcycle show and a biker race for many years, and a rock festival is also held there at the same time. Jewel Cave is located in South Dakota, it is famous for the fact that its walls are covered with minerals of various types. It is often referred to as the “jewel cave”.

Location and Weather

The state is divided into three parts: Black Hills, western South Dakota, and eastern South Dakota.The Missouri River flows between these parts. East South Dakota can be characterized by flat terrain and little rainfall. There is the Coteau de Prairie plateau bordering the Minnesota River Valley to the east and the James River Basin to the west. On the western side there are flat lowlands subject to soil erosion. In the southeast lies a valley of hills. In the western part are the Great Plains. In Black Hill there are low-lying mountains with a total area of ​​16 thousand square kilometers.The highest point in the state is Harney Peak, its height is 2207 meters above sea level. The climate of South Dakota is continental, with little snow and cold winters and low-humid sultry summers. In summer, the temperature does not exceed thirty-two degrees Celsius, in winter, minus twelve degrees Celsius. In the western part, the annual precipitation is about 380 mm per year, in the eastern part, about 640 mm per year. There are about thirty tornadoes a year, hurricanes are frequent in summer.

The economic component of the state.

For 2010, the gross domestic product was almost $ 40 billion. The state’s main income is the provision of services, trade, the financial sector, and health care. About ten percent of the budget comes from government spending. The state is home to the US Air Force Base Ellsworth, which is one of the top employers in the state. Industry is poorly developed. There are several businesses in the food and electronics industries. Extraction of natural resources such as gravel and sand, coal, gas, oil, gold and uranium is developed.Several hydroelectric power plants have been built on the Missouri River, which provide electricity for 45 percent of all electricity consumed. Currently, wind power is developing rapidly. In agriculture, animal husbandry and agriculture are well developed. The production of ethyl alcohol is developing at a good pace and now the state occupies the sixth place in the United States. The state is doing well in the development of the tourism business.

Locals and Religions.

Half of the population are women (50.2%).The state is home to: Whites, Indians, Hispanics, African Americans, Asians, representatives of other nationalities (84.7%, 8.5%, 2.7%, 1.2%, 0.9%, 1.8% in order) … South Dakota has the third largest American Indian population. According to religious views, 61 percent of the population is Protestant, 25 percent are Catholics, 8 percent are atheists, and 3 percent are other religions. Protestants can be divided into 6 types: Lutherans (27%), Methodists (12%), Baptists (4%), Prosbyterians (4%), other Protestants (6%), non-church Christians (7%).

90,000 US. Trips Colorado, Arizona, Utah, California, Oregon, and South Dakota

Decided to consolidate all unpublished US travels this year (excluding Maui) into one post-table of contents. Firstly, trips do not require a separate description of planning, because this part is the same for me everywhere and is extremely simple. Secondly, I want to try to write posts not in chronological order, but according to the mood (for example, I have already written about Antelope Canyon).

List of future posts, route maps and small comments below.

Still, five kopecks about the organization: I always fly the Delta, I take a car at the airport in National. I prefer to live with this priority: lodges in parks, hotels of the Marriott group (mostly Fairfield, Courtyard, Spring Hill), if there are none, then motels of the Wyndham group (mainly Super 8, Travelodge). Wyndham is cheaper, but significantly worse. I participate in relevant loyalty programs, which helps to efficiently accumulate / spend miles / points and receive various other benefits.Usually I try to fly in at night, after a working day, so as not to waste an extra day of vacation, spend the night near the airport, and go to the park in the morning. In the overwhelming majority of cases, I travel alone, which significantly increases the speed of my movement – I usually do not have dinner, so as not to waste daylight hours, stop only at gas stations and I do not break into long evening and night marches. In a company with someone, such a regime is not realizable, of course. However, if time permits, I also try not to be too busy.

Arizona Trip

Arizona is very popular with tourists and I myself have been here several times. But on this trip I went to see the less famous places. The second time I stopped at Antelope Canyon (I used to be in the Upper Canyon, and now I visited the Lower Canyon) and Monument Valley (I stayed there for the night in a hotel with the telling name The View). Initially, I wanted to spend two nights at Page, but during the trip I moved one night to Flagstaff. I failed in trying to figure out how you can see the national monument Vermilion Cliffs – to get to Wave you need to participate in the lottery, it is not recommended to travel to other places alone, I postponed it until next time.

My route passed through an interesting place – the point at which the borders of the four shats converge. There would be no place to put a commemorative plaque on this occasion and let everyone just take pictures. They also made a park there with a working schedule until five in the evening, where I, of course, did not have time.

The unfortunate traveler is the one who wants to eat in a restaurant on Thanksgiving evening. That day I was in the city of Gallup, honestly traveled around the city in search of a place for dinner (checked the top 10 on tripadvisor) – everything was closed.Spat and went to Denny’s.

Overnights: Phoenix – Gallup – Monument Valley – Page – Flagstaff – Phoenix.

1. Petrified Forest National Park
2. Aztek Ruins National Monument
3. Mesa Verde National Park
4. Monument Valley
5. Navajo National Monument
6. Lower Antelope Canyon
7. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
8. Wupatki National Monument
9. Walnut Canyon National Monument
10.Arizona Meteorite Crater

Colorado Trip

Here I combined two trips: the first trip in May included all of the following, the second is a separate trip to the Rocky Mountains. The fact is that at the end of May the park was almost completely closed, the snow blockages on the main road were not cleared. I climbed the car as much as possible, made a snowman (end of May!), Watched the incredible size snowplows punching the road, and decided to come back here in the summer.

In general, in my opinion, Colorado is the most beautiful state in the United States, not in specific places, but in aggregate. The road itself is beautiful, all 1500 kilometers to one. At the same time, Colorado is a highly underestimated state among tourists (I did not see any reports from there at all when I was preparing my first trips to the USA). But this is understandable, in the United States there is already too much for a foreign tourist.

The weather at the end of May was weird – I got caught in snow storms, in icy hail, in rain. In parks, you should always check the opening hours and warnings before leaving (on the NPS website and on the facebook of a particular park).

1. Rocky Mountains National Park (spring)
2. Rocky Mountains National Park (summer)
3. Colorado National Monument
4. Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park
5. Great Sand Dunes National Park
6. Florissant National Monument Fossil Beds

California & Oregon Drive

On this trip I visited three parks close to the coast. I rented a car one way, flew to Sacramento, flew out of Portland.The trip took three days, on the first day the mileage was the largest – in the morning I left Sacramento, spent the whole day in Lassen Volcanic park and after sunset I went to the coast, to the city of Eureka. This overnight drive took 4.5 hours, which was somewhat tiring. It was the first time in Oregon, you can’t refuel the car there yourself, amazing. Exactly the day before I arrived at Crater Lake, the main road in the park was closed to cars (but open to cyclists and pedestrians). As I already said, it is imperative to check the operating hours of the park before the trip.

Overnights: Sacramento – Eureka – Grants Pass.

1. Lassen Volcanic National Park
2. Redwood National Park
3. Crater Lake National Park

Trip to Arizona and Utah

This short trip was the prelude to our trip to Maui. Several years ago my wife and I were already in Zion Park and loved the local lodge, and we didn’t go all the way to the Narrows track. So we decided to return on occasion. It is quite difficult to book rooms in this lodge; there were practically no free dates three months before the trip.After Maui and Zion had been planned, I had one more day to spare, which I decided to spend on the northern edge of the Grand Canyon. Here, of course, I risked my health and got stuck from my wife, for her the Grand Canyon was too much for the fourth time. But we will also go for the fifth time when we are going to go on a Rim-to-Rim hike, from the southern edge to the northern one! North Rim has an excellent lodge overlooking the canyon, but traditionally there were no places, and I did not attend to it in advance (see the top picture).

Overnights: Las Vegas – Jacob Lake – Zion Lodge (two nights)

1. Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim)
2. Zion National Park. The Narrows

South Dakota Drive

Short day trip to the caves. There are many other interesting places around Rapid City, I wrote about them here and here. It is convenient to live in the city itself, it is not far from everything. Last time I could not find cheap tickets and drove from Chicago by car (the trick was done by a professional, it is not recommended to repeat it at home).This time I happened to see a sale at the Delta and bought a ticket pretty cheap.

I already had posts about Carlsbad Caves and Mammoth Cave. What is important to know about the caves is that they are usually not allowed to walk on their own, you need to buy a tour with a ranger. In this regard, you need to find out the schedule, in summer there are more tours, in winter there are fewer. On such tours, they do not allow the use of a tripod, which is regrettable.

1. Wind Cave National Park
2. Jewel Cave National Monument

To be continued…

My other posts about traveling in America:

National Parks 2015

USA. Summer in the parks. Part 1. Organizational
USA. Summer in the parks. Part 2. National Park Yosemite
USA. Summer in the parks. Part 3. National Parks Sequoia and Kings Canyon
USA. Summer in the parks. Part 4. National Park Grand Canyon
USA. Summer in the parks. Part 5. Horseshoe Bend and Marble Canyon
USA. Summer in the parks. Part 6. Corona Arch
USA.Summer in the parks. Part 7. Arches National Park
USA. Summer in the parks. Part 8. Canyonlands National Park

Chicago 2014:

Chicago. Part 1. John Hancock Center
Chicago. Part 2. Willis Tower
Chicago. Part 3. Millennium Park and Navy Pier
Chicago. Part 4. What to do
Chicago. Part 5. Musicals (1)
Chicago. Part 5. Musicals (2)
Chicago. Part 5. Musicals (3)
Chicago. Part 6. Go! Cubs! Go!
Chicago. Part 7.Chicago Night

USA 2014-2015:

USA. Badlands National Park
USA. Mount Rushmore, Devil’s Tower and Crazy Horse Memorial
USA. Mount Rainier National Park
USA. Olympic National Park
USA. Voyageurs National Park
USA. Big Bend National Park
USA. Key West
USA. Dry Tortugas National Park
USA. Everglades National Park
USA. Mammoth Cave National Park
USA. Renaissance Concourse Hotel at Atlanta Airport
USA.Acadia National Park
USA. Congaree National Park
USA. Sled dogs in Colorado
USA. Lake Michigan. Sleeping Bear Dunes. Part 1
USA. Lake Michigan. Sleeping Bear Dunes. Part 2
USA. White Sands National Monument
USA. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
USA. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
USA. Stone Mountain Park
USA. Shenandoah National Park
USA. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
USA. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
USA.Hot Springs National Park
USA. Amusement Park Six Flags Over Georgia
USA. Lower Antelope Canyon

Alpine skiing. Rocky Mountains USA vs. European Alps
USA. Mobile phone photo

Travel to Alaska:

Travel to Alaska. Part 1. Vancouver
Travel to Alaska. Part 2. Ketchikan
Travel to Alaska. Part 3. Juneau
Travel to Alaska. Part 4. Skagway
Travel to Alaska.Part 5. Glacier Bay National Park
Travel to Alaska. Part 6. Kenai Fjords National Park
Travel to Alaska. Part 7. Seward and the Glacier Exit
Travel to Alaska. Part 8. Train to Anchorage
Travel to Alaska. Part 9. Bear Kingdom
Travel to Alaska. Part 10. Denali National Park
Travel to Alaska. Part 11. Denali National Park
Travel to Alaska. Part 12. New York

Second US trip:

Day 1.Grand Teton NP
Day 2. Yellowstone NP
Day 3. Salt Lake City
Day 4. Arches NP
Day 5. Bryce Canyon NP
Day 6. Zion NP
Day 7. Grand Canyon
Day 8-9. Saguaro NP and Organ Pipe Cactus NM
Day 10. Joshua Tree NP

Wildlife

Hawaii. Big Island. Mauna Kea
Hawaii. Big Island. Waipio Valley
Hawaii. Big Island. South Point and Green Sands beach
Hawaii. Big Island. Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii.Big Island. Valley Pololu
Hawaii. Big Island. Lava Tree Park. National Village Pu’uhonua o Honaunau. Kipukapuaulu Bird Park
Hawaii. Big Island. Kealakekua Bay, Black Sands Beach, Luau
Hawaii. Oahu. Pearl Harbor

First US travel:

1. San Francisco – Route 1 – Monterey
2. Sequoia NP – Yosemite NP – Los Angeles
3. Las Vegas – Grand Canyon NP – Monument Valley – Antelope Canyon – Death Valley NP
4.Miami Beach – Key West – Washington
5. New York – Niagara Falls

Tags: USA
Location: USA

90,000 10 Amazing Waterfalls in South Dakota / Travel Guides

South Dakota is a sparsely populated US Midwestern state known for Mount Rushmore, with four US presidents carved into granite rock and the Crazy Horse Memorial. Dakota is an Indian word meaning friend.The Great Plains were home to the Sioux people.
Dakota’s Black Hills, sung by Doris Day in Jane’s Disaster, recalls those days of the Wild West; one of the falls even has an interesting story about Jesse James. The plains of South Dakota merge with the Badlands, which get their name from the rugged terrain, high summer temperatures and lack of water. They are partly in South Dakota.
Of course there is water, and part of it flows powerfully. Here are 15 amazing waterfalls in South Dakota that are pretty much a state secret.

1. Sioux Falls, Sioux City

Source: Stephen Frame / Shutterstock
Sioux Falls
If you were asked to pick the highlight of Sioux Falls 120 acres, you would probably choose the falls themselves.
At Altitude over 100 feet of thousands of gallons of water flow down every second.
Sioux City dates back to the mid-19th century and many historic buildings remain in the park itself.
Queen Bee Mill is a seven-story structure that was in use for only two years, but still survives.
Enjoy the art, Stocklands Ag Experience – an agricultural museum – and the Falls Overlook Café where you can relax and enjoy the great setting.

2. Cascade Falls Hot Springs

Looking for a place to swim in pleasant warm water? Cascade Falls is the place for you.
Its name tells a story: Hot water flows from a spring two miles above the falls, and the natural pool below the falls beckons you to relax.
Average temperature is 67 F.The surroundings are beautiful and the water has helped the area to grow beautiful flora.
Children can enjoy the shallow areas of the pool, which also has deep sections.
There is also a picnic area for you.
Check out recommended hotels in South Dakota (SD)

3. Spearfish Falls, Spearfish Canyon

Source: Jason Patrick Ross / shutterstock
Spearfish Falls, South Dakota
Spearfish Falls has an interesting history.
The railroad crossed the falls in the early 19th century, a great experience for passengers.
But a century later, the water was diverted to create a hydroelectric power plant in a nearby gold mine.
Suddenly the falls became dry; they did not appear again until 2003, when the stream returned to its original route.
The mines in South Dakota are long gone.
The railway has been closed for many years, but its remains are in evidence.
The walk to the falls is pretty easy; leave your car at the Latchstring restaurant and go.

4. Veil Falls, Spearfish Canyon

Source: Nikolai A Michal / shutterstock
Veil Falls, Spearfish Canyon
Veil is the general name for waterfalls throughout the United States; it’s down to the shape that water creates.
The one in Spearfish Canyon is a beauty in which water falls 60 feet from the ledge, and a particularly strong stream in the spring after the snow melts.
Later this year, the cascade is quite thin, but it still creates fine fog.
Easy access from the nearby car park, with lots of good places for photography.
If you decide to visit in winter, you will most likely see an ice climber making his way through frozen water.
This is strictly for people with experience.

5.Raflock Falls, Spearfish Canyon

Source: John Brucek / Shutterstock
Raflok Falls, Spearfish Canyon
The State Conservation Area, named for these falls, is a delight for waterfall lovers.
Raflok Falls is located near the main canyon and consists of two cascades pouring out ledges to create a beautiful view.
Travelers expect pleasure, and visitor amenities include parking, toilets and a designated picnic area….
The trails begin above the waterfalls and head down to the base, as well as to the observation decks.
Everything is in good condition and you can choose from several points of view to get a good photo.

6. Baker Falls, Spearfish Canyon

The mysterious Baker Falls emerged from a black and white photograph taken in the 1920s by Joseph Fassbender, whose collection of photographs is highly prized today.
He lived in the area, so he must have known the place, but in recent years it has caused a lot of controversy – where are they? The takeaway is this: A photograph of the Community Cave, which is a pillar of ice every winter.
Sounds of water falling from the ice until it gets very cold.
Considering there are three main waterfalls in the canyon, you should add it to your list if you are in the area.

7. Hippie Hole, Battle Creek

There are two options for hiking in Hippie Hole in the Black Hills; One is just a simple walk from the nearby parking lot to the top of the falls, and the other is a real challenge.
On a hot day, you will need a lot of water if you accept the challenge; You will go downstairs and must avoid poison ivy.
Either way, you will enjoy the waterfall as soon as you arrive.
Jumping from the falls into the pool below is a popular activity, but you shouldn’t do it without thinking.
You can sunbathe or swim and enjoy a picnic, but please take your trash home with you ..

8. Grizzly Falls, Pennington County

Black Hills National Forest is a very popular tourist area ..
Additional attraction for those who enjoys the fresh air is Grizzly Falls near Keystone.
This is a great place for families with children who like to climb large boulders ..
The walk to the falls is just over a mile from the camping along Grizzly Bear Creek ..
The water levels have dropped in recent years and spring is probably the best time to go. their visits ..
The region is a wildlife sanctuary.

9. Thunder Falls, Rapid City

Source: Tbennert / Wikimedia
Thunder Falls, Rapid City
These falls are part of an abandoned former mine – an artificial cave, if you like – just 10 miles from Rapid City, known as the gate up Mount Rushmore….
Water flows over 30 feet when leaving the mine.
You can go to the mine and see where the water falls inside before you step out into the sunlight.
You will hear water before you see it.
There is an admission fee and some questions if it is currently open, so if you are planning a trip there please check before traveling.

10. Devil’s Gulch, Garretson

Source: Patrick Anderson / Shutterstock
Devil’s Gulch
Legend has it that Jesse James jumped over a 20-foot ravine on his horse to escape the party.
You decide if the horse can bridge the gap.
A person in a gift shop has more such stories.
Visitors are less adventurous these days when they visit to see the waterfall.
There are three bridges above the cascade, but you must take care to look for the best views because there are no railings.
This is a great place for a family, although it may not be ideal for small children.
You will surely enjoy a picnic here on a summer day.

90,000 invasion of colorful rocks and prairie dogs

Welcome to South Dakota, USA! Before diving into the famous Black Hills area, I had to stop at a park with a slightly strange name – Badlands (“bad lands”).It is a vast space, dotted with rocks of intricate shapes, which, with the correct position of the sun, are painted in different colors, from yellowish to burgundy. Agree, it doesn’t sound so bad. At the same time, you can climb here almost anywhere, and walk anywhere. America once again drove my brain crazy: there is every state in it, even if it is not the most popular, then there must be some extraordinary natural place where you come and think: “Well, wow!”

Contents:
1. Information on cost and opening hours
2. Where to stay: Camping sites and lounges
3. Detailed park map with notes.
4. The first acquaintance and the history of the emergence of the badlands.
5.Brief description of all trails in the park + map
6.Detailed description of some trails with photos
-Trail Door
-Trail Window
-Trail Notch
7. Observation decks and Badlands Loop Road
8. Nature of the park.Wild prairie and prairie dogs
9. Nearby attractions

Info:
Badlands National Park

Location: The park has 3 entrances
-Northeast Entrance: I-90, Exit 131.21020 SD Hwy 240, Interior, SD.
-Pinnacles Entrance: I-90, Exit 110.24240 Hwy 240, Wall, SD.
-Interior Entrance: 20640 SD Hwy 377, Interior, SD.

Phone: Ben Reifel Visitor Center +1 (605) 433-53-61, White River Visitor Center +1 (605) 455-28-78

Opening hours: daily all year round

Cost (ticket is valid for 7 days): car and all passengers – $ 20, motorcycle – $ 10, per person (on foot, by bike, 16+) – $ 10.Free with America the Beautiful card.

Visitor centers (information, maps):
-Ben Reifel Visitor Center: Located in the North Unit near the Northeast Entrance. Open daily November-March 08: 00-16: 00, April-May 08: 00-17: 00, summer 07: 00-19: 00, early September-late October 08: 00-17: 00. Inside there is a small museum that tells about the geology, flora and fauna of these lands.

-White River Visitor Center: Located in the southwest part of the park (Stronghold Unit) on Route 27.Open only in summer, daily 09: 00-17: 00.

There are camping areas and a lounge in the park.

Checking the current state of the park, opening / closing trails and roads – on the park’s website.

Where to stay in Badlands Park:

Lounges

• Cedar Pass Lodge – Open from late April to late October. Located next to Ben Reifel Visitor Center.

Camping areas: (marked on the general map):

• Cedar Pass Campground
  – Located next to Ben Reifel Visitor Center; open from April 1st to October 31st, limited number of seats open in winter.
  – Cost: $ 22 for one seat for two people, $ 37 for one seat for two people with electrical outlets; for each additional person + $ 4. For groups – $ 4 per person, minimum cost $ 40 per seat; you need to book group seats in advance by calling +1 (605) 433-54-60.
  – Cold water available, toilets, paid shower, picnic tables.
• Sage Creek Campground
  – Located next to the Badlands Wilderness; entry from Sage Creek Road (unpaved road that may be closed during spring rains and winter storms).Check-in takes place according to the system “who came first, he drove in.”
  – Cost: Free.
  – There are toilets and picnic tables, no water. The closest place to get water is at Pinnacles Entrance Station.
  – Large trailers and trailers with a trailer are prohibited. The use of generators is prohibited.
• Other points
  – It is allowed to pitch a tent almost everywhere in the park. The condition is that it is located at least 1 km from the road or trail.
  – Popular free camping sites are on the Castle Trail in the Badlands Wilderness Area (in the latter case, you can park your car at the Sage Creek Campground).

!! Due to the danger of fires, no campfires are allowed in the park. The use of portable stoves and grills is allowed.

Hotels / motels nearby:

• Wall – 12 km
• Interior – 3 km
• Rapid City – 101 km

Badlands Park Map

Badlands Park Clickable Map:

The diagram shows that the park consists of three parts : North-East (North Unit), South-West (Stronghold Unit), and South (Palmer Creek Unit).The last two are located on the territory of the Indian Reservation. The first part is the most visited, it also contains all the trails and observation platforms.

There are two options for navigating the park , depending on the amount of free time and desire:

• Drive along the main road, stopping only at the viewpoints. This will save time, but at the same time give an overview of the park.
• Walk one or more trails and then navigate lookouts.In this case, acquaintance with the Badlands will come out closer and better. You can choose any trail, from very short, a few minutes, to long, many hours.

We chose several short trails and several lookouts. I’ll tell you about them. We followed the map from right to left from the Northeast Entrance and exited the park in the Pinnacles Entrance area.

First acquaintance with the park and the history of the badlands.

Entering the Badlands, you find yourself on the road Badlands Loop Road , which already from the “threshold” begins to lure further and further with its landscapes. The northeastern part of the park is arranged very conveniently in terms of movement: all you need is to continue straight ahead, stopping along the way at the points you need. So, welcome to the world of “not so bad” lands.

You probably immediately wondered what kind of badlands are, what are they made of and why they are called that.What you see in the photographs are dry hills of clay and sand, which have taken on their meandering shape due to the action of erosion. They formed layer by layer over tens of millions of years on the site of the sea that once existed here. The oldest (67 – 75 million years ago) formations are at the bottom, the youngest (26 – 34 million years ago) – at the top.

As I noted above, in translation from English “badlands” means “bad lands, bad lands.” The fact is that these territories are in no way suitable for economic activity, so the origin of the park’s name is self-explanatory.Although, in some places, green vegetation is still present, desperately trying to defeat the system.

Another reason these lands are so “bad” is that they are difficult to pass through. However, in the 21st century you shouldn’t worry about it. Badlands Loop Road was built a long time ago, trails are organized, and who does not pass, so will pass ?

One of the characteristics of badlands is the fragility of their design and the corresponding variability of shape. Their colors also change easily: when the sun is at its zenith, the rocks are dominated by all 550 shades of gray.But at dawn or dusk, the park transforms into bright orange, red and purple. When you see the evening photos, it seems as if you are in a completely different place, the difference is so strong. We, unfortunately, did not have time for the sunrise, and could not wait for its sunset.

Note that the park in South Dakota is far from the only place where badlands are concentrated. Similar landscapes can be seen in the states of North Dakota, Colorado, Montana and Nebraska, as well as in Canada, New Zealand and even Kyrgyzstan.

Badlands Park Trail Briefs

All trails are organized in an area called Cedar Pass (purple rectangle on the large map). The red road on the map (Badlands Loop Road) is the already familiar paved highway with equipped parking lots.

Trail Door

• Duration: 1.2 km round trip
• Difficulty: easy
• Description: The trail follows the boardwalk and leads to a point called “The Door”.

Trail Window

• Duration: 0.4 km round trip
• Difficulty: easy
• Description: A short trail that runs along the boardwalks and leads to a natural “window” in the canyon wall, offering scenic views of the badlands.

Trail Notch

• Duration: 2.4 km round trip
• Difficulty: medium to hard; includes ascent and descent on a vertical ladder
• Description: you go deep into the canyon, then there is an ascent up the stairs and a road along the top to the final point, from which a gorgeous view of the park opens from top to bottom.

Trail Castle

• Duration: 16 km round trip
• Difficulty: Medium
• Description: The longest trail in the park, which starts at the road, goes deep into the canyon, passing through a variety of badlands, and leads back to the road, but on the other side of the park.

Trail Medicine Root Loop

• Duration: 6.4 km loop
• Difficulty: Medium
• Description: Traverses the grassy prairie from where you can observe the badlands in the distance.It connects to the Castle and Saddle Pass trails.

Trail Cliff Shelf Nature

• Duration: 0.8 km loop
• Difficulty: Medium
• Description: walks along the boardwalk and climbs a ladder 60 meters along the canyon wall; here you can see a small pond and sometimes wild animals.

Saddle Pass Trail

• Duration: 0.4 km round trip
• Difficulty: Hard
• Description: A short trail that climbs up to a point overlooking the White River Valley.

Saddle Pass Trail

• Duration: 0.4 km round trip
• Difficulty: easy
• Description: A training trail that runs along the boardwalk along the badlands. Along the way, there are information stands with models of fossils and extinct animals that once lived in these territories, as well as a description of the canyon itself.

Basically, you can walk almost anywhere. This is one of the features of the park.But I would still advise, if possible, to stay on the trails, so as not to get lost and wander around.

Badlands Park Trail Details

Our first excursion from the car was on a light boardwalk trail called The Door. An intimate acquaintance with the badlands starts here.

On the left – the steppe, and on the right – the hills, which the path bends around, taking us deep into the depths, to the magic door.

The trail does not require physical training and is suitable for those who do not want to climb the rocks and walk on the sand.It is specially made for your convenience.

Plus, you won’t get tired of it. After only 5-10 minutes you will reach the end of the deck to the final point with an information stand and a view of the very door.

And here she is. To be honest, this name is not entirely clear for us, but who cares? The main thing is that the point is photogenic.

The most attentive should have noticed the little people in the background.Most visitors return to the parking lot at the end of the walk, but some decide to go through the door and continue on their own. That is why this park is interesting – here you will find almost complete freedom of action.

A door divides one parking lot with the park’s longest trail, the Castle. It will most likely take you a whole day to complete it. We walked a couple of tens of meters along the well-trodden path just “for show”, took a quick glance at the landscape, and went back to the car.

If you are planning to partially walk the Castle trail, do not forget that you can get to it both from the beginning – from the parking lot next to the Door trail, and from the end – opposite the Fossil Exhibit trail. My photo was taken from there.

The next trail “Window” is very short and will take you no more than 5 minutes. It is adjacent to the “Door” and also runs along the boardwalk. From a distance, it seems as if a huge castle has grown to your right, and the path leads to its front yard.

This feeling is not lost until the very end. The space on the sides of the deck, enclosed between the rocks, really looks like a huge courtyard or square.

Here, for the first time, I had the opportunity to take a closer look at the wall of the badland. Up close, it seems that if you start climbing on it, then it is about to collapse.

After a couple of moments, the deck led us to an abyss, a natural window with a fantastic view of the canyon.If the Door trail, in principle, can not be passed, having chosen something more interesting, then I recommend Window, at least because of this picture. What beauty, blooper …

The name of the next trail can be translated as “Rift” or “Cut”. It became the perfect option for us to get a good exploration of the area and gain impressions without spending a whole day on it. If you are not planning to do long hikes on multi-kilometer trails that go into the depths of the canyon, like Castle or Medicine Root Loop, , but would really like to really plunge into the world of badlands, then Notch is just what you need.The trail offers to walk along a dusty road without any man-made decks, climb the rocks and admire the beautiful views, and all this in some 30-40 minutes round trip, if you go without stopping.

First we walked along the bottom of the canyon, greeting tiny hills along the way.

Agree, simple small hills are somehow not interesting, so after a few minutes the path led us to big badlands of the most bizarre shapes.This I understand, another matter.

Next is one of the most interesting points on this trail – climbing a vertical wooden staircase. From the outside, what is happening looks funny. It’s good that I didn’t wear a skirt ?

The way up is not as easy as it might seem. However, taking a first look at the changed landscape from top to bottom, you immediately realize that it was clearly worth it. The stairs led to the right place.

From here you can clearly see the path along which we have just passed.She seems so tiny. Looking at her, I immediately want to shout “I am the king of the mountain!”

The trail continues to the top floor of the canyon.

And ends with a solemn view of the Badlands Valley and Badlands Loop Road. I don’t even have anything to add, how great it is.

Returning back, we got into the car again to drive through the rest of the North Unit, stopping along the way at the park’s observation decks.

Badlands Park Lookouts and Badlands Loop Road

As befits any self-respecting national park, there are many observation decks in the Badlands, which also run along the Badlands Loop Road.They make gorgeous shots, and the luckiest ones meet sunrises and sunsets here.

The very first site – Big Badlands Overlook – we passed, not immediately orienting ourselves on the map where we are. When we realized that we were moving farther and farther from it, we did not return. Immediately behind it is the aforementioned Cedar Pass area with trails, and then the rest of the observation decks (see map).

We got off at the second site White River Valley Overlook , from which you can watch the impressive White River valley.Here, standing on the edge of a cliff, you again feel like the king of the mountain: massive badlands lie right at your feet.

Next, the landscape suddenly changed, filling the badlands palette with brighter colors. We have not seen this in the Cedar Pass area. We again decided to stop and get out of the car to breathe this beauty in deeply.

I didn’t want to take my eyes off such a sight at all, but there was still so much ahead of us. Reluctantly, we drove on.The previous observation deck was followed by Panorama Point , which offers a spacious view of the country of badlands. It gives a good idea of ​​how large the park is.

Having deliberately skipped a couple more pitches, we left at Conata Basin Overlook , equipped with a bench for dreamers and those who like to enjoy the moment.

And then a whole clearing of multi-colored hills appeared in front of us. No photograph can convey their natural beauty.I knew that many points of the park are especially photogenic, but I absolutely did not expect to see such a thing here.

I will reveal the secret of such an impeccable natural treatment of the landscape. Remember when I said that the Badlands Park formations were formed in layers over many millions of years from the bottom up? So, our hills, they are “yellow mounds” (yellow mounds) – this is one of the lowest and most ancient layers. Long ago, the sea that existed here dried up, throwing its dust into the air, which then eroded into yellow soil.The yellow mounds are a good example of a relict soil – one that was formed in very ancient times in a climate that differs from the modern one.

Leaving Conata Basin Overlook, do not rush to get upset. For some time the highway will continue to wind between the multi-colored hills, therefore, you will still have time to see enough of them.

We once again stopped to see them properly. Up close, it seems as if someone brought ordinary sand here, and then painted it all from above.

The theme of yellow mounds continues to unfold on the adjacent site Yellow Mounds Overlook . From here, they look especially impressive in combination with the already familiar badlands in the background.

Further, the picture changes again, revealing open spaces and steppes. The photo was taken near the next observation deck Sage Creek Basin Overlook . It was the last for us, but no less memorable.

Nature of the park.Wild prairie and prairie dogs.

Slowly but surely, we were approaching road 502, through which we were going to leave the park and move on towards the city of Wall. But before that we decided to take a look at Roberts Prairie Dog Town – an area of ​​wild prairies, where small and impossibly cute animals live. Previously, I was familiar with the prairies only by name, but with my own eyes I saw them for the first time only in Badlands Park. Prairie is a type of steppe that is found in North America.They are spacious flat fields, looking at which it seems as if the grass on them is completely dry. We are used to seeing the grass as green, but here it is of wheat color. The Badlands is home to the largest protected prairie in the United States.

At first these fields appear deserted and uninhabited. But, it is worth taking a closer look, as hundreds, if not thousands, of round minks appear in front of you, from which now and then some fluffy rodents jump out. It reminded me of a childhood game.There are 9 minks on the screen in front of you, from which mice peep out one by one. Your task is to hammer them back with the bat. Remember this one? Agree, it looks like ?

Mink owners are similar to marmots or ground squirrels, but few have heard of their exact name in Russia. Meet these prairie dogs from the squirrel family. Roberts Prairie Dog Town has probably tens of thousands of such residents.

How funny they are! When we drove by, the pussies, as if on command, one by one stood on their hind legs and froze, looking at us.For a moment we felt like members of the royal army, where prairie dogs, like soldiers, straightened up at the sight of our carriage and saluted us ?

• Other inhabitants of the Badlands Park area.

In addition to prairie dogs, other wildlife can be found in the Badlands. According to the site of the park, 39 species of mammals (bison, mountain rams, species of deer, coyotes, foxes, lynxes), 9 species of reptiles (turtles, lizards and snakes, including venomous rattlesnakes), 6 species of amphibians and 206 species of birds live here.Bison and rams are most commonly seen in the Badlands Wilderness , but sometimes they even go out onto the trails. Remember, wildlife is best viewed from a distance. You don’t touch them, they don’t touch you. As for snakes, they usually do not appear in crowded places, so you are unlikely to find them on short, busy trails.

!! Fact: in the territory of Badlands Park were found the remains of three-toed horses that roamed these lands 25-35 million years ago!

Attractions closest to Badlands Park:

• Wall Drug Store – 12 km
• Scenic Ghost Town – 43 km
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial – 135 km
• Custer State Park – 144 km and Needles Highway – 150 km
• Crazy Horse Memorial – 157 km
• Wonderland Cave – 159 km
• Petrified Forest of the Black Hills – 118 km
• G.Deadwood – 161 km
• Museum City Four Mile Old West Town Museum – 170 km
• Wind Cave – 180 km
• Jewel Cave – 183 km
• The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs – 185 km
• Cascade Falls and Swimming Hole – 200 km
• Black Hills Caverns – 200 km

Saying goodbye to the “bad” lands and waving a pen to the prairie dogs, we drove up the map towards the miniature tourist town of Wall.But I will talk about this in the next article.

90,000 Tam Le from Vietnam is a Senior Accountant at the University of South Dakota.

×
In our effort to deliver good content to as many people as possible, the text of this article has been machine-translated, so please excuse any mistakes. Thank you!

Why did you decide to study in the USA?

Some would call this the “American Dream.”I wanted to study in the USA because the USA is known for its higher education and opportunities. I wanted to embrace the diversity here and grow personally and academically.

Why did you choose your school?

I chose the University of South Dakota (USD) because of the high quality of education. The US dollar ranks high in national rankings and is renowned for its accounting software. Beacom Business School is AACSB accredited and I knew I would have a great learning experience here.The student to faculty ratio in US dollars is 16: 1, so students are more likely to interact and learn from their professors / mentors. Also USD is located in the small town of Vermillion in South Dakota. Vermillion is quiet and safe, making it the perfect learning environment.

What do you like best about your program or university?

What I love the most about USD, and in particular about his business school, is how much the professors connect with the students.They are really interested in our success and are always ready to help. USD also offers many career resources such as mock interviews, job fairs, and on-campus interviews. All of them are available to students for free. I think USD really cares about its students and wants them to be successful.

What do you miss most in your home?

Definitely my family and friends. I miss coming home after a long day at school.Although they are only one call away, they are not the same. They motivate me to work hard.

What surprised you the most about US life and education?

I would say there are people here. Almost everyone I have met is so kind and willing to help you if you go to them. I also learned one valuable lesson: nothing is impossible. If you work hard enough, there are always opportunities.

… your biggest disappointment?

I would say obstacles in hiring.Some companies clearly state on their websites that they do not employ international students or those who are not US citizens. I just think it’s kind of frustrating and disadvantageous for foreigners …

How did you manage:

… language differences?

I tried to participate as much as possible. I made friends with Americans, attended seminars and volunteered. I think just talking without fear of making mistakes has helped me significantly improve my English.

… finance?

I worked on campus. I could work up to 20 hours a week. In the summer I also had an internship. It helped a lot.

… adapt to a different educational system?

It was hard at first. I turned to professors and consultants for help and they were very kind. They were always welcoming and helpful.

What are you doing?

I was a member of the International Club on campus. I had to do some cultural events with other international friends.It was an amazing and interesting experience! I am also a member of Beta Alpha Psi (BAP), an honorary organization for students studying accounting and finance. By joining BAP, I was able to develop my leadership skills, learn a lot more about the industry, and share my experience with the community.

How easy or difficult is it to make friends in the US?

It’s easy if you push yourself out of your comfort zone. I understand that we are all afraid of mistakes or cultural differences. But once you get out of your comfort zone, you will find that it is not difficult to be friends with people who are different from you.

What are your career goals? How does your education in the United States relate to your personal goals and the needs of your country?

I want to get a master’s degree in accounting and then become a certified public accountant. My college has really helped me get one step closer to my goals and I am always grateful for my experience here.

What advice would you give to other students in your country who are considering studying in the United States?

I would say be confident in yourself, be brave and believe in yourself.I understand that going to study abroad in another country is about a lot. But as soon as you believe in yourself and start following your dream, doors and opportunities will open before you. You know what they say, “Do big or go home.”

Show More

.