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67 Things to Do in the Black Hills (Full Guide)

Mira JinBy
Rocky hillside with evergreen trees overlooks a vast, mountainous forest under a clear blue sky, conveying a sense of tranquility and majesty.

Planning a trip to the Black Hills? This guide covers 67 things to do, from famous landmarks to quiet trails most people never find.

I’ve personally put together every top spot, activity, and tip so you don’t waste time guessing. No filler. Just real, useful ideas.

You’ll find hiking, history, wildlife, caves, and scenic drives all in one place. I’ve researched and checked every item on this list.

Here’s what we cover: The region itself, all 67 activities, travel tips, and FAQs.

About the Black Hills

Jagged rock formations rise dramatically against a backdrop of blue sky and scattered clouds, with lush green pine trees at their base.

The Black Hills sit in the western corner of South Dakota, stretching slightly into Wyoming. The region spans roughly 6,000 square miles and includes national parks, forests, state parks, and small historic towns. Rapid City is the main gateway.

The land has been home to the Lakota Sioux people for centuries and holds deep spiritual meaning. In the 1870s, a gold discovery drew thousands of settlers and changed the region forever.

Few places pack this much variety into one area. You get natural beauty, history, wildlife, and outdoor activity all in one trip.

67 Best Things to Do in the Black Hills

From world-famous monuments to quiet forest trails, here are 67 ways to make the most of your time in the Black Hills.

1. Visit Devils Tower

Jagged rock formations rise dramatically against a backdrop of blue sky and scattered clouds, with lush green pine trees at their base.

Devils Tower is the first national monument in the United States, rising 867 feet above the surrounding land. It holds deep spiritual meaning for many Native American tribes, so visit with respect.

2. Hike Devils Tower Trail

A group of hikers stands atop a red rock cliff with lush greenery below, gazing at the imposing Devil's Tower under a clear blue sky, evoking awe.

The paved Tower Trail loops 1.3 miles around the base of the tower. It is an easy walk suitable for most fitness levels and gives you a full view from every angle.

3. Visit Red Beds Trail

Red rock canyon landscape with scattered pine trees and five people standing on a narrow ledge in the middle distance. Sunlight filters through the top left.

The Red Beds Trail is a 2.8-mile loop through ponderosa pine forest and open prairie. It is quieter than the Tower Trail and a good spot to see deer and prairie dogs.

4. Walk Joyner Ridge Trail

Signpost for Joyner Ridge Trail amid lush green grass and trees. Arrows indicate directions, evoking a sense of adventure and exploration.

Joyner Ridge is a 1.5-mile trail with wide open views of Devils Tower and the Belle Fourche River valley below. Go early in the morning for the best light.

5. See the Wind Circles Sculpture

A large, abstract white sculpture frames the majestic Devils Tower set against a vibrant blue sky. Trees line the landscape, creating a serene atmosphere.

Located near the Devils Tower visitor center, the Wind Circles sculpture honors the Native American connection to the land. Take a few minutes to read the nearby panels before moving on.

6. Visit Spearfish

A winding road curves through lush, green forested hills under an overcast sky, evoking a serene and tranquil atmosphere in a mountainous landscape.

Spearfish is a small welcoming town at the northern edge of the Black Hills. It has good restaurants, local shops, and easy access to canyon scenery.

7. Drive Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

A wooden path curves through a vibrant autumn landscape with colorful trees. A cascading waterfall flows beside the path, creating a serene atmosphere.

This 20-mile drive through Spearfish Canyon is one of the most scenic routes in South Dakota. Limestone walls rise sharply on both sides while the creek runs alongside the road the whole way.

8. Visit Bridal Veil Falls

Mountain landscape with a waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs into a flowing river. Surrounded by sparse trees and lush greenery, under an overcast sky.

Bridal Veil Falls drops about 60 feet into Spearfish Canyon below. A short easy walk from the road gets you close enough for a great photo.

9. Hike to Devil’s Bathtub

Person in blue shirt stands in a rocky gorge under a cascading waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. The scene conveys adventure and tranquility.

Devil’s Bathtub is a natural rock pool carved out by Spearfish Creek over thousands of years. The trail is about 2.5 miles round trip and requires a few creek crossings, so wear waterproof shoes.

10. See Spearfish Falls

A serene waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush green trees, with a gentle stream flowing over rocks in the foreground under a clear sky.

Spearfish Falls sits just past Bridal Veil Falls along the canyon. Most visitors who stop at Bridal Veil continue a short distance further to see this one too.

11. Visit Roughlock Falls

A tranquil waterfall cascades over moss-covered rocks surrounded by lush greenery and trees, conveying a serene and refreshing natural scene.

Roughlock Falls is one of the most photographed spots in Spearfish Canyon. The water fans out in wide sheets over layered rock and the nearby picnic area makes it a great midday stop.

12. Hike the ’76 Trail

Sign for ‘76 Trail’ with details about the trail. It sits among trees and greenery, conveying a welcoming and adventurous outdoor atmosphere.

The ’76 Trail runs along the bottom of Spearfish Canyon for about 3.5 miles one way. It is a peaceful, low-key hike that follows the creek closely through thick forest.

13. Try the Savoy-Waterfalls Trail

A serene gravel path winds through a forest of birch and pine trees beside a flowing river, under a cloudy sky, evoking peace and tranquility.

This trail connects several waterfall viewpoints in the canyon and covers roughly 3 miles with moderate elevation changes. It is a solid half-day hike worth doing if you have the time.

14. Visit Community Caves

A rugged cave entrance set in a rocky cliffside is surrounded by lush green vegetation and tall trees, creating a serene, natural atmosphere.

Located near Spearfish, the Community Caves are natural limestone caves open for self-guided visits. They have a raw, unpolished feel that many visitors prefer over the more developed caves.

15. Rent an ATV or UTV in Spearfish

A group of people ride ATVs along a forest trail. They're surrounded by tall trees and dappled sunlight, creating a sense of adventure and excitement.

Several outfitters near Spearfish offer ATV and UTV rentals for visiting trails in the Black Hills National Forest. Trails range from easy gravel roads to more rugged off-road routes.

16. Visit Deadwood

Bustling street scene in a historic town with colorful old buildings, a U.S. flag, cars, and people enjoying a sunny day. Lively and inviting atmosphere.

Deadwood is a National Historic Landmark that grew rapidly after the 1876 gold rush. Walking through it feels like stepping back into the 1800s, especially along the main street.

17. Walk Around Historic Deadwood

Archway reading "Historic Main Street Deadwood" over a snowy street, with scenic mountains and lit storefronts in the background, creating a historic, cozy atmosphere.

Main Street in Deadwood is lined with original 19th-century buildings now housing restaurants, shops, and casinos. Historical reenactments happen regularly during warmer months.

18. Tour the Broken Boot Gold Mine

Rustic wooden structures of the Broken Boot Gold Mine are built into a rocky hillside. Signs with yellow letters indicate the entrance. Forested area above.

The Broken Boot Gold Mine offers guided underground tours of a real gold rush era mine. The tour lasts about 30 minutes and gold panning is available afterward.

19. Visit Mount Moriah Cemetery

Entrance to Mt. Moriah Cemetery, featuring a wrought iron gate and stone pillars, surrounded by lush trees under a clear blue sky.

Mount Moriah Cemetery is the final resting place of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. The views of Deadwood from the hilltop are excellent and the cemetery is open daily.

20. Hike the Homestake Trail

A wooden trail marker on Homestake Trail shows "Mile 0.2" with elevation "5320 ft." It stands amid grassy hills, overlooking a town surrounded by trees.

The Homestake Trail connects Deadwood with Lead and passes the site of the famous Homestake Gold Mine. The trail is about 3 miles and follows old mining roads with good views.

21. Visit Deadwood Museums

A Victorian-style house with a turret and wraparound porch. The facade features intricate woodwork. Autumn trees and bushes surround the home.

The Adams Museum is the oldest in Deadwood and covers gold rush history and Native American artifacts. Most museums in town are affordable and worth an hour or two of your time.

22. Try a Casino Experience

A lively street scene in a historic town with colorful brick buildings, vintage-style signs for bars and shops, and cars parked along the road.

Deadwood is one of the few places in South Dakota where casino gambling is legal. Even if gambling is not your thing, the old casino buildings housed in 1800s saloons are worth a look.

23. Visit Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower

A rustic stone tower stands in a lush green forest under a bright blue sky. A narrow path leads to its entrance, evoking a sense of exploration and tranquility.

Built in 1919, the Friendship Tower sits atop a rocky peak near Deadwood and honors President Theodore Roosevelt. A short steep hike gets you there and the views stretch wide across the Black Hills.

24. Bike the Mickelson Trail

Three people enjoy a sunny bike ride on a dirt path through a lush forest by a flowing stream. The scene conveys a sense of adventure and tranquility.

The Mickelson Trail is a 109-mile rail trail running through the heart of the Black Hills. You do not have to ride the whole thing. Even a short section through forest and over old railroad bridges is worth it.

25. Rent Bikes in Deadwood

Mountain biker wearing a yellow helmet and backpack rides over a rocky path in a dense, sunlit forest, conveying adventure and excitement.

Several shops in Deadwood offer full-day and half-day bike rentals for the Mickelson Trail. E-bikes are available at many shops, making the trail accessible for all fitness levels.

26. Ride ATVs on Local Trails

Two people riding ATVs on a dirt trail through a dense forest. Sunlight filters through tall trees, creating a sense of adventure and exploration.

The Black Hills has a large network of off-road trails open to ATVs and UTVs. Deadwood is a good launching point and rentals are available in town.

27. Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore under a clear blue sky, featuring four U.S. presidents' faces carved into granite. Pine trees dot the rocky foreground.

The 60-foot faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln carved into granite are one of the most recognized landmarks in the world. Visit early in the morning before tour buses arrive for the best experience.

28. Walk the Presidential Trail Loop

A paved walkway leads through lush green trees to Mount Rushmore, where two presidential faces are carved into the rocky mountainside beneath a cloudy sky.

The Presidential Trail is a 0.6-mile paved loop that takes you closer to the base of the mountain. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete at a relaxed pace.

29. Stop by the Sculptor’s Studio

A park ranger gives a presentation in front of a large sculpture resembling Mount Rushmore's presidents in a visitor center, while an engaged audience listens.

The Sculptor’s Studio is a small museum at the Mount Rushmore site focused on the making of the memorial. It includes original tools, scale models, and construction-era photographs that most visitors skip.

30. Visit Crazy Horse Memorial

A white marble statue of a man on a horse points ahead with a mountain carving in progress visible in the background. Clear blue sky and trees surround them.

The Crazy Horse Memorial is an ongoing mountain carving started in 1948 and still being worked on today. The site also includes a museum and cultural center focused on Native American history and art.

31. Take the Bus Ride to the Base

A large white tour bus exits a narrow tunnel carved through rugged rock formations, surrounded by pine trees under a partly cloudy sky.

During certain times of year, visitors can take a bus from the visitor center to the base of the mountain for a much closer view of the carving. The scale of the project becomes far more clear up close.

32. Watch the Legends in Light Show

A figure outlined in glowing neon lights dances dynamically under a spotlight on a dark stage, creating a vibrant and energetic visual contrast.

Every evening from late spring through early fall, the Legends in Light laser show projects images on the mountain and tells the story of Crazy Horse. It runs after dark and lasts about 20 minutes.

33. Attend a Night Blast Event

A vibrant fireworks display illuminates the night sky, featuring bursts of red, blue, and gold. Dark silhouettes of trees frame the lively celebration.

On select summer nights, the memorial hosts Night Blast events with live music, cultural performances, and fireworks fired from the mountain. Book tickets in advance as these sell out fast.

34. Join the Volksmarch Hike

Tourists explore the massive Crazy Horse Memorial under a clear blue sky. The giant stone face and hand convey a sense of awe and historical significance.

Once a year in early June, the memorial opens the mountain for a public hike called the Volksmarch. It is one of the only times visitors are allowed on the mountain itself and spots fill up fast.

35. Visit Custer State Park

Serene lake scene with large rock formations reflected in the water, surrounded by lush green pine trees under a clear blue sky. Peaceful and scenic.

Custer State Park covers 71,000 acres of forest, grassland, and granite spires. It has 13 campgrounds, four resort lodges, dozens of trails, and free-roaming bison herds that sometimes block the road.

36. Hike to Black Elk Peak

A stone lookout tower stands prominently on rocky terrain, with a staircase leading up to it. Snow patches and evergreen trees dot the landscape under a cloudy sky.

At 7,244 feet, Black Elk Peak is the highest point east of the Rocky Mountains. The summit hike is about 7 miles round trip and offers views of five states on a clear day.

37. See Cathedral Spires

Jagged granite spires rise dramatically against a clear blue sky, surrounded by lush green pine trees, creating a rugged and serene landscape.

Cathedral Spires is a collection of tall narrow granite formations rising from the forested hillside in Custer State Park. The trail to reach them is about 4 miles round trip and the views looking up are worth every step.

38. Hike Sunday Gulch Trail

A serene lake scene features large rock formations and pine trees, surrounded by dense forest under a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds, evoking tranquility.

Sunday Gulch Trail is a 3-mile loop that drops through a narrow rock-walled gulch with boulders and small waterfalls. Some scrambling is required so good footwear is a must.

39. Drive the Needles Highway

Aerial view of a narrow, winding road cutting through needle-like rock formations and green pine trees, with a lone black car navigating the curves.

Needles Highway is a 14-mile scenic drive through narrow rock tunnels and past tall granite spires. Large vehicles and trailers are not allowed so check your vehicle size before you go.

40. Drive Iron Mountain Road

A narrow road passes through a natural rock tunnel surrounded by greenery under a clear blue sky, conveying a sense of adventure and tranquility.

Iron Mountain Road connects Mount Rushmore to Custer State Park and features pigtail bridges, tunnels, and hairpin turns. The tunnels are framed to line up perfectly with views of Mount Rushmore as you drive through.

41. Spot Wildlife on the Wildlife Loop

A herd of bison grazes in a lush, green field beside a road at sunset. Vehicles are stopped along the road, with a colorful sky above, creating a serene scene.

The Wildlife Loop Road is a 36-mile drive through Custer State Park grasslands. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see bison, pronghorn, elk, and the famous wild burros.

42. Hike in Black Hills National Forest

Rocky peaks in the Black Hills are bathed in warm, orange hues at sunset. Dense green forest covers the slopes, creating a dramatic, serene landscape.

Black Hills National Forest covers 1.2 million acres with hundreds of miles of trails that see far fewer visitors than the national parks. It is the best place in the region to find real solitude.

43. Walk Stratobowl Rim Trail

A man sits on a rocky cliff, overlooking a lush, sunlit forest with tall pine trees and a distant winding river, conveying peace and contemplation.

The Stratobowl is a large natural bowl near Rapid City used for high-altitude balloon experiments in the 1930s. The rim trail is about 1.5 miles and offers good views into the bowl and surrounding forest.

44. Visit Hippie Hole

A person stands joyfully under a gushing waterfall, surrounded by rugged cliffs and calm waters, conveying a sense of adventure and tranquility.

Hippie Hole is a natural swimming hole along Spring Creek near Sheridan Lake. A short forest hike gets you there and the cold, clear water makes it a favorite local spot in summer.

45. Hike Buzzards Roost

Expansive view of lush, rolling forests under a clear blue sky. Sunlit greenery blankets the hilly terrain, evoking a tranquil and vast wilderness.

Buzzards Roost is a series of short trails just outside Custer offering big views for relatively little effort. The main loop is about 4 miles and passes through open meadow and pine forest.

46. Visit Hell Canyon Trail

Sign for Hell Canyon Trailhead in Black Hills National Forest near rocky cliffs and trees under a blue sky, conveying a sense of adventure.

Hell Canyon cuts through the southern Black Hills with rugged terrain and narrow passages between exposed rock walls. The trail is about 5 miles one way and makes for a solid full-day hike.

47. Climb St. Elmo Peak

Rocky mountain landscape with rugged peaks under a clear blue sky. Foreground features evergreen trees and large rock formations, conveying a serene, natural atmosphere.

St. Elmo Peak is a granite summit in the Black Hills accessible via a short but steep scramble from nearby forest roads. The summit rewards you with open views across the Harney Range.

48. Walk the Osprey Trail

A serene forest scene with a calm river reflecting the blue sky, flanked by tall pine trees. Sunlight filters through, creating a peaceful, natural ambiance.

The Osprey Trail runs 7 miles along Pactola Reservoir, the largest reservoir in the Black Hills. The trail is quiet and well maintained and the reservoir is great for kayaking and fishing too.

49. Visit Wind Cave National Park

A family explores a dimly lit cave, with rough, textured rock walls. The mother carries a child while ascending stone steps, evoking a sense of adventure.

Wind Cave National Park protects one of the longest cave systems in the world. Above ground the park has prairies and pine forest home to bison, elk, and large prairie dog towns.

50. Take a Cave Tour

A dimly lit, rocky tunnel with water flowing along the floor. A wooden railing with lights lines the left side, creating a mysterious and adventurous ambiance.

Wind Cave offers several guided tour options varying in length and difficulty. The cave is known for its rare boxwork formations and tours should be booked in advance during summer.

More Things to Do in the Black Hills

A collage of South Dakota scenes, including lush landscapes, caves, vibrant street art, historical sites, festivals, a green dinosaur statue, and a "Welcome to Hill City" sign. The images convey a sense of adventure and cultural richness.

  • 51. Hike Rankin Ridge Trail: This 1.5-mile loop in Wind Cave National Park leads to a fire lookout tower at the highest point in the park, offering excellent wildlife viewing and broad views of the southern Black Hills.
  • 52. Visit Lookout Point and Centennial Trail: Running 111 miles from Bear Butte State Park to Wind Cave National Park, even a few miles of the southern section gives you a real feel for the open grassland and pine terrain.
  • 53. Visit Jewel Cave National Monument: The third longest cave in the world with over 220 miles of mapped passages, it gets its name from the calcite crystals lining its walls that sparkle when lit.
  • 54. Take a Scenic Cave Tour: Covering about 0.7 miles inside the cave and lasting around 80 minutes, the temperature inside stays at a constant 49 degrees year-round, so bring a light jacket.
  • 55. Try a Wild Caving Experience: The Wild Caving Tour at Jewel Cave offers a more physical experience, where small groups crawl and squeeze through tight passages in unmapped sections of the cave.
  • 56. Experience a Lantern Tour: On select evenings, Jewel Cave hosts Lantern Tours using only handheld lanterns for light, giving the cave a dim, quiet atmosphere that feels genuinely different from standard tours.
  • 57. Visit Rapid City: The largest city in the Black Hills region and a natural base for visiting, it has good hotels, restaurants, breweries, and easy access to major attractions in every direction.
  • 58. Walk the City of Presidents: A public art project featuring life-size bronze statues of every U.S. president on street corners throughout downtown, this free, self-guided walk is also a great way to see the city.
  • 59. Visit Art Alley: A block-long outdoor gallery in downtown Rapid City where local artists have painted murals and installations on the walls, the art changes frequently and the alley carries a vibrant, colorful energy.
  • 60. Visit Chapel in the Hills: A hand-built replica of a Norwegian stave church constructed in 1969, the grounds include a small museum on Norwegian-American heritage and a prayer walk through the woods, with free admission.
  • 61. See the Berlin Wall Exhibit: Rapid City has a display of original sections of the Berlin Wall installed at a local dealership, making for an unexpected and genuinely moving stop with informational panels explaining the wall’s history.
  • 62. Visit Dinosaur Park: Sitting on a hilltop above downtown Rapid City, this park features seven large concrete dinosaur sculptures built in the 1930s, with excellent views of the city and free admission.
  • 63. Visit Custer Town: Quieter and more affordable than Keystone or Deadwood, this town has a strong arts community with independent shops and a small historic downtown, making it a great base for nearby day trips.
  • 64. Visit Belle Fourche: Home to a monument marking the geographical center of the United States, this less touristy town has a good rodeo tradition and is conveniently located for those heading to or from Devils Tower.
  • 65. Relax in Hot Springs: A small resort town at the southern end of the Black Hills known for warm mineral springs and the remarkable Mammoth Site paleontological dig, it has beautiful sandstone architecture and a slower pace than the rest of the region.
  • 66. Visit Keystone: The closest town to Mount Rushmore and the most tourist-heavy in the Black Hills, it is worth a quick stop and the nearby Bear Country USA wildlife park is great for families.
  • 67. Visit Hill City: A small arts and outdoors town in the heart of the Black Hills with a strong gallery scene, good restaurants, and a historic downtown, the 1880 Train departs from here on scenic steam rides through the Black Hills.

Black Hills Travel Tips

Here are a few simple tips to help you have a safe and smooth visit.

  • Pack out everything you bring in and stay on marked trails at all times.
  • Only make campfires in designated fire rings and check burn restrictions first.
  • Stay at least 100 yards away from bison as they can charge without warning.
  • Watch your step on rocky slopes in warm weather as rattlesnakes are common.
  • Bring layers, good boots, sunscreen, and download offline maps before heading out.

Final Thoughts

I’ve been fascinated by the Black Hills for years and putting this list together reminded me just how much is packed into this one corner of South Dakota. Honestly, 67 things still feels like not enough.

Start with what excites you most. Don’t try to do everything. Pick a few spots that call to you and go deep rather than rushing through a checklist.

If this guide helped you plan your trip, leave a comment below and let me know what you ended up doing. I’d love to hear your favorites from the list.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in the Black Hills?

Most visitors need at least 3 to 5 days to see the main highlights. A week is better if you want to hike, visit caves, and visit both Deadwood and the state park without feeling rushed.

What is the best time of year to visit the Black Hills?

Late spring through early fall from May to September is the most popular time. Summer is busy but has the most events and fully open attractions. Fall brings fewer crowds and great foliage along Spearfish Canyon.

Is a national parks pass worth it for the Black Hills?

Yes, if you plan to visit Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave, and Jewel Cave. The America the Beautiful Pass covers entry to all three and saves you money compared to paying separately at each site.

Are the Black Hills good for families with young kids?

Absolutely. Dinosaur Park, Custer State Park wildlife viewing, the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, and easy trails at Devils Tower are all great for kids. Many cave tours also offer family-friendly options.

Is it safe to hike alone in the Black Hills?

Generally yes, but take basic precautions. Tell someone your plan before heading out. Bring water, a map, and a fully charged phone. Stay on marked trails if you are not an experienced backcountry hiker and be aware of rattlesnakes in warmer months.

Mira Jin

Fueled by a love for adventure and cultural exploration, Mira Jin has spent over a decade curating unforgettable travel experiences for readers around the globe. A graduate of the University of Sydney with a background in tourism and event management, she blends expert planning skills with a passion for discovery. Mira’s work spans adventure excursions, cultural activities, and off-the-beaten-path experiences—helping travelers create memorable journeys tailored to their interests. Her articles provide expert recommendations, insider tips, and inspiration to turn every trip into a unique and enriching adventure.

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