19 Unique Things To Do In Black Hills South Dakota in Summer

Ready to explore the Black Hills of South Dakota? 75 million years in the making, there is nowhere quite like South Dakota. You’ll find a huge array of unique things to Do In Black Hills, especially in the warm summer months.

From hikes around Mount Rushmore to spotting Wild Bison in Custer State Park. Touring the kids around Bear Country USA or exploring Jewel Cave National Monument, South Dakota activities will fill your days.

If you like more action, try Zip-lining with Rushmore Tramway Adventures. Or try Wild Caving or get stuck in as part of a Woolly Mammoth Dig! 

Wondering how to organize seeing all these sights in a week or so? We can help as South Dakota is close to our Colorado base and one of ours go to road trips!

Our goal is to provide a practical guide with a researched range of Black Hills activities that make your trip here a breeze. With recommendations on accommodation and top places to eat we save you time in researching long lists.

 

Where Are The Black Hills

Part of the Great Plains of the USA, South Dakota is a land locked central state. It’s easily accessible by road from neighboring states and by air.

Black Hills National Forest is around 45 miles drive from Rapid City where the main airport is.

There are 3 areas to the Black Hills, Northern, Southern and Rapid City. Our guide focuses largely on the Southern area as this is where most of the activities we love are located.

In 1874, gold was found in this area bringing prospectors from many parts to make their fortune! As the frenzy of mining came to an end, forestry took over as the main industry until us travelers started arriving.

1. Visit Mount Rushmore – National Monument

We have visited Mount Rushmore National Monument during the day time and evening. Try to do both! 

What perhaps isn’t known as well is that you can hike around the monument. During daylight hours, why not take the short Presidential trail which leads to where some of the blasted rock was removed to create the figures. You’ll also be the closest you can get to the actual faces.

You might visit earlier in the day and then return for the nightly show. Every evening from late May to the end of September, there is an hour or so lighting event at Mount Rushmore.

It’s really well done and ends with the lighting up of the sculptures which were finished in 1941 after 14 years of hard work!

Take time to check out the avenue of 50 state flags as you enter and/or leave the memorial. It’s interesting to learn the history of when each of the states joined. There are also 6 flags for territories, commonwealths and District of DC

2. Peter Norbeck Scenic Drive: Iron Mountain Road

What an amazing drive between Keystone and Custer. With 314 curves, 14 switchbacks, 3 tunnels and 3 pigtails (turns which loop over their own road), Iron Mountain Road in The Black Hills ascends rapidly.

It’s a beautiful backroad 18 miles drive which takes around an hour but you will want to stop along the route so allow a couple of hours. Although paved, the route twists and turns through gorgeous countryside from Mount Rushmore to Junction 16A.

As well as ever-dominant Black Hills scenery, make sure to stop off for another peek at the 4 historical faces. The route also takes you through a tunnel or two. Clever engineering and a fun discovery!

Another stunning drive is the Needles Highway which is slightly shorter at 14 miles. The spikes of granite give the road its name. Watch out for deer grazing at the roadside!

3. Visit Custer State Park & Spot Bison

Don’t miss the state’s oldest national park of 71,000 acres which is home to a huge number of wild bison (buffalo) or to use their original Lakotan name – Tatanka. 

Firstly, head to Custer State Park Visitor Center to get your bearings, see what’s on that day and watch their ‘Spirit of Tatanka’ film. Next, take your time driving the 18 mile wildlife loop! 

They are truly amazing with their massive manes and did you know a fully grown male bison weigh up to 2000 pounds and is 6 feet tall!

Look out for burros (think mule), bison herds (there are over 1400 in the park), different species of deer, wild elk and  if you’re lucky maybe a mountain lion or coyote.  Easier to spot are literally hundreds of prairie dogs which are so cute to watch!

If you prefer to be driven (& possibly get closer to the wildlife), there are 1-2 hour Buffalo Safari Tours available. These are rated as one of the Top 10 Safari tours in the USA currently so do book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Visit late September and you can watch the annual cowboy round up of the park’s bison. Over the same weekend, the park hosts an arts festival with entertainment and food.

They are truly amazing with their massive manes and did you know a fully grown male bison weigh up to 2000 pounds and is 6 feet tall!

Look out for burros (think mule), bison herds (there are over 1400 in the park), different species of deer, wild elk and  if you’re lucky maybe a mountain lion or coyote.  Easier to spot are literally hundreds of prairie dogs which are so cute to watch!

4. Hike Or Swim In Custer State Park

Beyond spotting wonderful wild animals who inhabit the park, there are plenty of hiking trails for all levels – over 60! 

Here’s a few to consider that are popular with locals and visitors during summer.

• Sylvan Lake Shore Trail. At just over a mile, this is a gentle walk around the lake. Next to camping areas so likely to be busier. (Easy Rating)
• Cathedral Spires. 1.7 miles out and back with a 500 ft elevation gain. Dogs on leash allowed. Fairly popular moderate hike. (Moderate Rating)
• Black Elk Peak Loop. Various routes around 7 miles, offering big views of the hills and mountains. (Moderate Rating – allow 3 1/2 to 4 hours)

Many more trails are fairly short and rated easy so perfect for kiddies or if you don’t want something too strenuous.

5. Go Fishing In Any South Dakota Lake

What’s better than a day on the water surrounded by Black Hills natural beauty.

If you love fishing, you will be delighted to know that you can fish anywhere as long as you have a SD State Fishing License and observe catch limits/day etc. 

Alternatively hire a guide who knows the local fishing hot spots within the Black Hills lakes, rivers and streams. Black Hills Fishing Guide is a great resource to get you started.  

6. Stop By “CrazyHorse” Memorial Mountain

If you like world records, you’ll love this inspiring Black Hills destination; the world’s longest ‘in progress’ mountain carving. 

It started back in 1939 at the request of Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear.  He wished to honor the Lakota culture through a carving from stone in the Black Hills. He chose the community leader named “CrazyHorse”.  

“CrazyHorse Monument” carving stands 560ft tall, and comes out 641ft from the base to the carved fingertips. Enormous is an understatement!!

This project is special because the original carver Korczak Ziolkowski (a Bostonian of Polish descent) refused all government monies. Instead, he relied on donation and volunteers.

Visitors can take a short bus drive to a viewing point and on the way learn about the Foundation, its vision, and the future plans. The bus trip is okay. It’s a short ride there and back and you don’t go to the actual carve site.

Today grandchildren of Korczak and his wife Ruth oversee this unique Foundation, which recently opened the Indian University of North America.

7. Join The Mammoth Site Dig

This is one of the most unique things to do in South Dakota. Take yourself back to the ice-age and visit The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs where we have another world record here in South Dakota.

Around 140,000 years ago, Mammoths gathered around a sinkhole area here to drink from but due to the shape of the walls, once they got in, they couldn’t get out! Sadly they died and over the next 50,000 years, it filled up.

It’s amazing that this site was only discovered when the land was purchased for housing developments.  A local contractor called George Hansen stumbled upon a bone in the first excavation and was savvy enough to know this wasn’t an ordinary find!

Thank goodness he and his son Dan Hansen made the effort to convince experts this was the real deal!

You will see the largest number of mammoth remains in the world when you visit! 

Currently 61 (mainly male) mammoth remains have been revealed, and 3 are woolly mammoths.

The Mammoth Site is an active dig so expect to see paleontologists dusting earth around already discovered mammoth remains! There are more lurking for sure 🙂

8. Oregon Ruts

Don’t miss the Oregon Ruts ! This is a fascinating piece of USA history.  Head to Guernsey, Wyoming and just out of town, you will find signs for the historic site. 

In the 1800s, over 500,000 brave pioneers made their way west on the Oregon Trail route.  The easier terrain of the plains gave way to rocky challenges and it became extremely difficult to cross this part of early America. 

Due to so much usage of the trail over sandstone, the tracks wore down until they were over 5 feet deep in this area. It’s hard to imagine this journey with today’s travel comforts.

Park up and take a short walk to the site and en route you can read more about the tales of these intrepid adventurers! 

When I was standing here and putting myself in the shoes of what it must have been like, it must have been such a tough journey compared to a quick flight or car journey of the 21st century.

9. Hike To & Swim In Hippie Hole, Keystone

Free! If you like a bit more challenging hiking after a drive down a dirt road, then Hippie Hole might be just the reward at the end of the trail. This road needs an SUV for clearance and to get over big dips on it, so be warned!  

You also will scramble over some rocky areas so be prepared with the right footwear. Dogs are allowed to join in the fun, just watch out for them at the main water hole.

Although the water here is cool year round, it is so appealing to dive in and cool off on a hot summer day, especially after hiking to the hole.

Of course you can simply find your rock and sunbathe at the base or paddle in the waters.

If you choose to jump heed the safety information as there are sharp rocks, cliffs and it’s not a place where you want to be rescued from as its pretty remote!

10. Dark Sky Gazing In Black Hills 

If you haven’t yet had an opportunity to gaze up to the heavens in an accredited Dark Sky area, here’s your chance.

Book a Jeep Tour Safari with A Professional Guide Here 

This is also a fantastic spot to observe the annual Perseid (August) and Gemeid (December) solar displays with shooting stars galore.

A little further south in Colorado, you can also visit the Dark Sky Area of Black Canyon of the Gunnison, near Crested Butte.

11. Bear Country USA, Rapids City

Bear Country USA Get here for 9am to avoid sitting in traffic at the entrance especially during peak season (June-August).

This may or may not appeal to you so it’s a personal choice! But, we love animals and really enjoyed the hour or so drive through this privately owned park. 

Elk, bighorn sheep, mountain lions and bears are usually around to name but a few. Of course, it would be preferable to interact with them fully in the wild but for many of us that just isn’t possible.

Once you finish the drive through you can park up and visit a smaller section with little animals from otters to ground hogs. They were enjoying breakfast when we visited and were entertaining.

You will find excellent information about each species here and for kids I think it’s a great day trip! There is a well stocked gift store with bathrooms and a cafe.

12. Caving In Black Hills – Wild, Historic or Scenic!

Going Underground in Black Hills Caves tops the list of South Dakota activities for many on vacation. Around a 30 minute drive from Custer, this might be a good activity to combine with say a morning in the main park.

Jewel Cave National Monument is the 3rd longest cave in the world with many geology ‘jewels’ to discover!From a gentle Discovery Tour, to Scenic, Lantern led and Wild Excursions, there is an adventure for everyone to enjoy.

You can reserve these tours directly on the Jewel Cave Official Site but the Scenic Tour is really popular so again book this ahead of time.  Expect a fairly modern level of activity as you will be climbing up and down over 700 steps. 

Kids under 5 are not permitted on this – the 20 minute Discovery Tour is better for little ones.

Nearby Wind Cave National Park has over 150+ miles of underground passages as well as plenty of above ground hiking trails. However at the time of writing no tours are permitted as elevator work is ongoing. 

13. Zip-Lining at Rushmore Tramway Adventures

If you or your family/friends need a little more action and adventure in the Black Hills, head to Keystone and take advantage of the Rushmore Tramway Adventures.

As well as zip-lining, you can have fun on their alpine slide, or tubing. Take a chairlift from Keystone town center to a park full of adventures.  Kids will happily spend hours here so be warned 🙂

There are many different packages on offer. The official Rushmore Tramway website calendar with opening hours and daily lowest prices is a great resource. Here’s a link to it: Rushmore Tramway Prices and Deals.

14. Breezy Point Overlook & Picnic Area

If you love an outdoor picnic then don’t miss Breezy Point Overlook on Highway 244 just west of Mount Rushmore and around 7 miles from Custer. 

Although it’s close to heavily visited spots, not so many visitors stop off here, so it’s a real treat to experience a quieter Black Hills.

This is quite a simple facility so don’t expect information huts or toilet, or drinking water taps here. The short walks to the overlook areas are paved and a nice stroll before or after you eat.

For more details check this USDA Black Hills Breezy Point Picnic Area Information Link.  

15. Ride the 1880s Train

Set aside 3 hours for an old fashioned stream train ride between Hill City and Keystone. Buy your Tickets for 1880s Train Rides.

The actual train ride is 1 hour in each direction with a 15 minute stop in between.  You can park near to Keystone Station at Borglum Story exhibit for $5 as station parking is limited.  There’s more at Hill City Station if that suits you better.

The train takes you through national forests territory as well as lands that have been developed so don’t expect something like Custer Park.  However, the real buzz is being on a stream train and it is certainly an experience.

We have done a similar train ride in Leadville Colorado, which is worth checking out if you’re heading this way.

16. Deadwood – Step Back in Time

The reputation of the town of Deadwood is built on the stories of many larger than life characters from the old Wild West. Think Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok! 

Always living on the wild side, even today there are over 80 casinos giving a ‘try your luck’ feel to this pioneer town.

There is ample parking as you drive into Deadwood. Park up and spend a few hours wandering through the Main Street. It’s filled with places to eat, drink, and souvenir shop!

If you enjoy history, make a stop at the Days of 76 Museum dedicated to early pioneers who established life here.  Having celebrated 100 years in 2024, it’s a fascinating look back in time. It’s open Tuesday to Saturday 10 am – 4pm.

Although it is fun to stroll around, this is perhaps a town more suited to an evening out. 

During the summer months, the town hosts many open air concerts, and of course if you like a little flutter, you’ll enjoy an evening in Deadwood!

17. Ride the George S Mickelson Trail

If you come to Deadwood but aren’t interested in casinos or the history as much, why not take a bike ride or hike. Head along the beautiful trail that runs from the town on old rail tracks for over 100 miles and 15 trail heads. You can join the trail from Sherman Street Deadhorse.

Along the way you will see shelter and picnic sites so it’s a great idea to pack a lunch and enjoy it al fresco on a summer’s day.  

This Mickelson Trail Map gives you a great overview of the trail. Print off a copy along with our article to bring with you to the Black Hills.

18. Sturgis – Motorcycle

Sturgis is pretty small and other than driving through it, we didn’t see a lot to do here. However, if you love motorcycles you’ll likely know all about this town and may even be heading here for it’s annual rally.

Yes, the biggest motorcycle rally in the world is held here every summer!  With 10 days of partying with outdoor concerts, food events and of course everything ‘motorcycle’ Sturgis, South Dakota revs to life.  10 day Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 

If you are a fan of this type of 2 wheels, check out the local Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, also in Sturgis

19. A Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

Having done sunrise hot air ballooning in California and Turkey, we can tell you there’s nothing quite like it.  Although it’s not for everyone we include it here as a ‘final ‘bucket list’ unique thing to do in Black Hills SD.  

The scenery here is so amazing from the ground so we can only image how it looks from above. Glide above the hills and lakes from your starting point in Custer and celebrate at the end with a glass of champagne!

Check Hot Air Balloon Trip Availability and prices here.

Best Time to Visit South Dakota

Although you can visit year round, in our experience, the best time to visit is between May to September. 

Black Hills weather is hottest in July when temperatures can reach 29 C (85F). Interestingly June can be the wettest month but don’t let that put you off – it won’t rain every day.

The climate is perfect all summer for outdoor activities, camping, eating outdoors and kids will love being able to run around in open spaces in the sunshine.

Some businesses and activities operate reduced hours or shut down entirely over the winter months! Of course, National parks and many outdoor activities are open pretty much year round.

One bonus if you come outside of peak months is wildlife can be more visible in cooler temperatures. This is when they travel down to lower terrain for food.

Where to Stay in South Dakota?

We recommend these hotel options to stay during a South Dakota Road Trip that includes Keystone and Custer.

In addition, there are countless homes, cabins and campgrounds to enjoy which offer great flexibility for a family or larger group stay.

We recommend these hotel options to stay during a South Dakota Road Trip that includes Keystone and Custer.  In addition, there are countless homes, cabins and campgrounds to enjoy which offer great flexibility for a family or larger group stay.

📍Eagles Landing Lodge – conveniently close to Custer with free parking.  wonderful outdoor seating area & kitchenette facilities. No restaurant.

📍Bavarian Inn, Custer –  this Swiss themed accommodation offers tennis court, a pool and hot-tub, perfect after a day in the outdoors. Breakfast is served in a chalet type building. We like that it’s a little out of town – look out for a deer grazing outside your door!

📍Roosevelt Inn, Mount Rushmore, Keystone – in the heart of town, this is a relaxing option but still within walking distance to restaurants and points of interest. Great breakfasts and lovely terrace looking up to Mount Rushmore.

Where to Eat and Drink In the Black Hills?

Here’s our favourite spots for lunch and dinner in Keystone and Custer. 

Keystone: Ruby House Restaurant – an institution in town, this classic historical restaurant is bursting with character. Located on the boardwalk, it’s really popular so book a table ahead of time to avoid long wait.

There’s a saloon bar next door – Red Garnet – perfect for a fun pre-dinner cocktail!

Custer: Bungling Bull – is a great spot for lunch with a casual American menu from salads to burgers.  If you enjoy sport bars, you’ll love this spot for a quick catch up on your favourite teams.

Custer: Gold Pan Saloon – come for a casual meal and stay for a night with the locals and a few visitors!  Pool table adds to the fun vibe of this busy bar. We had a great time here enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and the appetizer were excellent.

Rochford: Moonshine Gulch Saloon Loved by bikers visiting Sturgis and many others of us, this traditional style bar is full of charm.  It’s a good stop for a casual lunch and while you are there, for an ice-cream next door!

How To Get Around The Black Hills

Let’s be honest, unless you are with a tour group being driven around place to place, you need a car to explore and enjoy the Black Hills.

If you’re flying in, you can either rent a car from Rapid City Regional Airport or book a shuttle from the airport to your destination.

Check Here for Flights from Your Nearest Airport to Rapid City.

There is a Black Hills Shuttle Service which you can get to/from the airport to various towns around the region.

Driving around Black Hills of South Dakota is fairly easy and main destinations and attractions are well sign-posted.  

Some of the roads like Iron Mountain Road are twisty and narrow and so our main obvious tip is to take your time.  Deer often appear from the wooded areas on the road so be prepared!

FAQs

How Many Days to Visit in Black Hills South Dakota?

A good base itinerary to avoid too much packing and unpacking is 2-3 nights around Keystone and similar in the Custer area.

If you have more time to add to your South Dakota fun getaway, book a campsite, cabin or lodge resort within one of the national parks for a full week!

Are there Bears in the Black Hills South Dakota?

Yes! But you’re only likely to see them in Bear USA, a private animal reserve. 

If seeing bears roaming around or catching fish is on your bucket list, consider a future trip north to Alaska for more outdoor adventures. Having lived in Anchorage we know bears are around! 

Also, there’s an incredible array of outdoor fun around Alaska’s biggest town, so check it out on our helpful Things To Do In Anchorage article. 

Final Tip for Your Black Hills Adventure

The Black Hills are not as crowded as many other spots in the USA in our opinion! There are campgrounds, small motels and fairly remote cabins for rent which really gives you a sense of freedom.

The attractions here are worth the trip on their own, but throw in the incredible scenery, abundant wildlife and friendly welcome, and you have a vacation destination that will make the best of memories! 

Have fun planning your summer road trip to the Black Hills South Dakota and we hope you found this article interesting and helpful!