Badlands National Park & Black Hills, South Dakota 15-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Rapid City

Arrive at Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), pick up your rental car, and head towards the Badlands area.

This will be your base for exploring Badlands National Park.

Plan for about a 1-hour drive from Rapid City to Wall/Interior, which are common entry points for Badlands National Park. Stock up on snacks and water.

Badlands Loop Scenic Byway

Embark on a scenic drive through Badlands National Park.

Stop at various overlooks to admire the dramatic pinnacles, spires, and grasslands. Look out for wildlife like bison and bighorn sheep.

Cliff Shelf Nature Trail

Enjoy an easy, boardwalk-enhanced hike through a juniper forest oasis and along the Badlands wall, offering beautiful views of the formations.

(0.5 miles loop)

Dinner in Wall

Enjoy a casual dinner in Wall, South Dakota, a small town famous for Wall Drug Store, near the park entrance.

Door & Window Trails

Hike the Door Trail (.

75 miles) and Window Trail (.25 miles), which offer easy walks into the Badlands formations for unique perspectives and photographic opportunities.

The Door Trail involves a boardwalk followed by an unmaintained trail through the formations. Wear sturdy shoes.

Ben Reifel Visitor Center & Fossil Exhibit Trail

Visit the visitor center to learn about the park's geology and paleontology.

Walk the short Fossil Exhibit Trail (0.25 miles boardwalk) to see ancient mammal fossils uncovered in the Badlands.

Lunch at Cedar Pass Lodge

Enjoy lunch at the Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant, located within the park, offering convenient dining with scenic views.

Notch Trail Hike

Embark on the popular Notch Trail (1.

5 miles round trip), known for its ladder climb and panoramic views of the White River Valley. This hike is a bit more adventurous.

This trail involves climbing a log ladder and walking along a ledge. While not overly strenuous, it requires a good head for heights and stable footing.

Sunset Viewpoint

Find a scenic overlook (like Pinnacles Overlook or Panorama Point) to watch the sunset paint the Badlands formations in vibrant colors.

Drive to Black Hills

Drive from the Badlands area towards the Black Hills, making your way to the Keystone/Mount Rushmore area.

Check into your next accommodation.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Visit the iconic monument carved into the granite of the Black Hills.

Explore the Grand View Terrace, Presidential Trail (0.6-mile loop for closer views), and the Sculptor's Studio.

Parking fee required. The Presidential Trail has stairs, but offers excellent perspectives.

Lunch in Keystone

Enjoy lunch in the quaint town of Keystone, located at the base of Mount Rushmore, with various casual dining options.

Iron Mountain Road Scenic Drive

Experience one of America's most unique roads, featuring pigtail bridges, granite tunnels, and breathtaking views of Mount Rushmore.

It's part of Custer State Park's Norbeck Scenic Byway.

The road is very winding with speed limits of 25 mph. Enjoy the drive and stop at overlooks.

Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road

Drive the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, known for its herds of bison, pronghorn antelope, wild burros, and prairie dogs.

Prime viewing is often in the morning or late afternoon.

Animals are wild and can be unpredictable. Maintain a safe distance. The park entrance fee (paid once for the duration of your stay) is required for Custer State Park.

Dinner in Custer State Park or Hill City

Enjoy dinner at one of the lodges within Custer State Park, or head to nearby Hill City for more dining options.

Sylvan Lake Exploration

Visit 'the Crown Jewel' of Custer State Park.

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake (1-mile loop) and admire the unique rock formations. This is also a starting point for longer hikes.

Sylvan Lake offers paddle boat rentals in season (check for mid-spring availability) and beautiful photo opportunities.

Needles Highway Scenic Drive

Drive the iconic Needles Highway (SD Hwy 87), a spectacular route winding through pine and spruce forests, granite spires, and passing through narrow rock tunnels.

This road is usually open by mid-spring, but check conditions. It is not suitable for oversized vehicles or RVs due to narrow tunnels.

Lunch in Custer

Grab lunch in the town of Custer, offering a variety of eateries ranging from casual cafes to family restaurants.

Crazy Horse Memorial

Witness the ongoing carving of the Crazy Horse Memorial, a colossal mountain monument to the Oglala Lakota warrior, Crazy Horse.

Visit the visitor center, museums, and enjoy the interpretive programs.

There is a fee to enter the memorial. You can also opt for a bus ride to the base of the mountain for a closer view (additional cost).

Dinner in Rapid City

Return to Rapid City and enjoy dinner at one of the city's many restaurants, from casual to more upscale.

Downtown Rapid City & City of Presidents

Take a stroll through downtown Rapid City to see the 'City of Presidents' - life-size bronze statues of past U.

S. presidents scattered throughout the streets. Explore local shops and art galleries.

Dinosaur Park

Visit Dinosaur Park, a free roadside attraction featuring large, green dinosaur sculptures atop a hill overlooking Rapid City.

Offers good views and a fun photo opportunity.

Lunch in Rapid City

Enjoy a final lunch in Rapid City, choosing from its diverse culinary scene before preparing for your next journey.

Black Hills Souvenir Shopping

Spend some time shopping for souvenirs, local crafts, and perhaps some Black Hills Gold jewelry, a unique local specialty.

Prepare for Travel to Grand Teton

Relax and prepare for a significant travel day tomorrow as you head towards Grand Teton National Park. Check weather, road conditions, and ensure your vehicle is ready.

Consider packing a cooler with drinks and snacks for the long drive ahead. Ensure your gas tank is full.

Travel to Grand Teton

Drive from the Black Hills area to Grand Teton National Park.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you approach the Teton Range.

Pack snacks and water for the drive. Be aware of potential wildlife on the roads as you enter the park.

Check into Signal Mountain Lodge

Settle into your accommodation within Grand Teton National Park, offering stunning lake views and convenient access to park attractions.

Jenny Lake Scenic Drive

Drive the scenic loop around Jenny Lake, stopping at viewpoints for spectacular reflections of the Teton mountains.

Early spring might still have some snow, but the drive offers beautiful vistas.

Short Jenny Lake Walk

Enjoy an easy walk along the eastern shore of Jenny Lake, soaking in the iconic views of Teewinot Mountain and Mount Moran.

This section is flat and easily accessible.

Dinner at the Lodge

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of the dining options available at Signal Mountain Lodge, with views of the surroundings.

Sunrise at Oxbow Bend

Witness a stunning sunrise over the Snake River with the Teton Range reflecting in the still waters, a prime photography spot.

Best light for photography is at dawn or dusk. Often a good spot for moose and other wildlife.

Teton Park Road Drive

Drive along the scenic Teton Park Road, stopping at various pull-offs to admire the dramatic mountain range and expansive valleys.

Explore Mormon Row

Visit the historic Mormon Row Historic District, home to iconic barns set against the backdrop of the Tetons.

Great for photography and a glimpse into early settler life.

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic viewpoint along the Teton Park Road or near Mormon Row, taking in the panoramic views.

Antelope Flats Wildlife Drive

Drive Antelope Flats Road and Mormon Row Road again in the afternoon for prime wildlife viewing opportunities, often spotting bison and pronghorn.

Bring binoculars! Keep a safe distance from all wildlife.

Dinner at Colter Bay

Dine at one of the restaurants in Colter Bay Village, offering a different atmosphere within the park.

Hike to Taggart Lake

Embark on the scenic Taggart Lake Loop Trail, a relatively easy 3-mile round trip hike that leads to a beautiful glacier-fed lake at the base of the Tetons.

Bring water and wear sturdy shoes. Watch for wildlife along the trail.

Lunch by Jackson Lake

Enjoy a casual lunch near Jackson Lake, perhaps at one of the lodges or with a packed meal overlooking the expansive lake.

Explore Colter Bay Village

Stroll around Colter Bay Village, visit the visitor center, and enjoy the views of Jackson Lake. You can walk along the lake shore or browse the gift shops.

Chapel of the Transfiguration

Visit the historic log chapel with an iconic window framing the Grand Teton mountain, offering a peaceful and picturesque stop.

Dinner at Dornans

Experience a classic Grand Teton meal at Dornans, known for its chuckwagon dinners and Western atmosphere (check seasonal availability).

Moose-Wilson Road Wildlife Drive

Drive the unpaved Moose-Wilson Road (if open) for excellent wildlife viewing, especially moose and bears, through a denser forest environment.

Road status can vary in spring; check with park rangers. Drive slowly and keep an eye out for animals.

Craig Thomas Discovery Center

Visit the park's main visitor center for interactive exhibits, trip planning assistance, and a bookstore.

Learn more about the park's geology and wildlife.

Lunch in Jackson Hole

Head into the charming town of Jackson Hole for lunch, offering a variety of dining options from casual to upscale.

Explore Jackson Town Square

Wander around Jackson's iconic Town Square, famous for its elk antler arches and Western shops. Enjoy some souvenir shopping or simply people-watch.

Dinner in Jackson

Enjoy a final dinner outside the park in Jackson, perhaps trying a local specialty or a highly-rated restaurant.

Last Teton Views

Enjoy a final, leisurely morning soaking in the views from your lodge or a nearby scenic overlook like Jackson Lake Dam.

Take some last photos.

National Elk Refuge Overlook

Drive by or stop at the National Elk Refuge overlook near Jackson to see where thousands of elk winter.

In mid-spring, some may still be visible.

Elk are usually present in larger numbers during winter, but stragglers might still be around in early spring.

Last Minute Souvenirs

Grab any last-minute souvenirs or gifts from a park gift shop or in Jackson before heading to your next destination.

Check-out from Lodge

Complete check-out procedures from Signal Mountain Lodge.

Lunch on the Road

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in Jackson or grab provisions for your drive towards the next destination.

Scenic Drive to Monument Valley

Embark on a full-day scenic drive from the Grand Teton region (Wyoming) down to Monument Valley.

This is a long but incredibly rewarding drive, offering changing landscapes as you head south. Pack snacks and drinks.

Check into Accommodation

Arrive and check into your lodging near Monument Valley, allowing time to relax after the long drive.

Sunset at Monument Valley Overlook

Head to the main Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park entrance for an unforgettable sunset view over the iconic Mittens.

The colors are truly magical as the sun dips below the horizon.

Check sunset times for April 2027. Entrance fee required for the park. If staying at The View Hotel, you can enjoy this from your balcony.

Drive to Monument Valley

Enjoy a scenic morning drive from Cortez, CO, into Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.

Monument Valley Scenic Loop Drive

Embark on the 17-mile self-guided dirt road loop through Monument Valley, stopping at iconic viewpoints like John Ford's Point, The Three Sisters, and Totem Pole. Take your time to soak in the incredible landscape.

The road is unpaved but generally manageable for most vehicles. Consider hiring a Navajo guide for a more in-depth experience and access to areas off the main loop. Remember to respect Navajo land and stay on marked paths.

Lunch & Navajo Crafts

Enjoy lunch at The View Restaurant (if open) or bring a picnic.

Afterwards, browse local Navajo artisan stalls near the visitor center for authentic crafts and souvenirs.

Valley of the Gods Scenic Drive

Just north of Monument Valley, experience a less crowded, equally stunning scenic drive through Valley of the Gods. This 17-mile loop offers similar geological formations without the tribal park fees or crowds, perfect for more serene exploration.

This is a gravel road, generally well-maintained. Pack water and be prepared for limited services.

Goosenecks State Park Viewpoint

Visit Goosenecks State Park to witness the incredible meanders of the San Juan River, carving a series of 'goosenecks' through the landscape.

A short stop for a breathtaking geological marvel.

Drive to Grand Canyon South Rim

Enjoy a scenic drive from Monument Valley to the Grand Canyon South Rim.

This approximately 3.5 to 4-hour drive takes you through diverse Arizona landscapes.

Lunch near South Rim

Stop for lunch in Tusayan, just outside the Grand Canyon National Park entrance, or grab a quick bite at the Grand Canyon Village.

Enter Grand Canyon National Park

Pass through the park entrance, present your pass or pay the entrance fee.

Consider purchasing an 'America the Beautiful' pass if visiting multiple national parks.

Mather Point Viewpoint

Your first awe-inspiring view of the Grand Canyon!

Mather Point offers expansive vistas and is easily accessible from the visitor center. Take your time to absorb the scale and beauty.

Yavapai Point & Geology Museum

Visit Yavapai Point for more stunning views and the Yavapai Geology Museum, which offers excellent interpretive displays about the canyon's formation and geology.

Check into Grand Canyon Accommodation

Head to your accommodation for the next two nights, check in and settle in.

Sunset at Hopi Point (or similar)

Experience a breathtaking Grand Canyon sunset.

Hopi Point is renowned for its panoramic views and is a popular spot. Alternatively, enjoy sunset from Maricopa Point or Yavapai Point.

Hopi Point is accessible by park shuttle during certain hours. Check shuttle schedules for April 2027. If driving your own vehicle, consider other viewpoints on Hermit Road if it's open to private vehicles during that time.

South Kaibab Trail (Ooh Aah Point)

Embark on a memorable hike down the South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point.

This 1.8-mile round trip hike offers incredible views with a manageable distance and elevation for a first-time canyon descent. Remember, going down is optional, coming up is mandatory!

Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and take breaks. The trail is steep in places. Accessible via park shuttle bus from Grand Canyon Village. No water or restrooms on this section of the trail.

Lunch in Grand Canyon Village

Enjoy a well-deserved lunch at one of the restaurants in Grand Canyon Village, such as Maswik Food Court or Bright Angel Restaurant.

Desert View Drive & Watchtower

Drive east along Desert View Drive, stopping at viewpoints like Grandview Point, Moran Point, Lipan Point, and finally, Desert View Watchtower.

Climb the historic Watchtower for expansive views of the eastern canyon and Colorado River.

This section of the park road is open to private vehicles year-round. Don't miss the views from the Watchtower.

Dinner near Desert View

Consider a casual dinner near Desert View or head back towards Grand Canyon Village for more options.

Stargazing (Optional)

The Grand Canyon is a certified International Dark Sky Park.

On a clear night, step outside away from artificial lights and marvel at the incredible star-filled sky.

Sunrise at Mather Point

Wake up early for a final, spectacular Grand Canyon sunrise.

Mather Point is an excellent, easily accessible location to witness the canyon bathed in golden light.

Check sunrise times for April 2027. Bring a warm jacket as mornings can be chilly.

Final Views & Souvenirs

Enjoy a final walk along the Rim Trail, revisiting a favorite viewpoint or browsing the gift shops at Grand Canyon Village for souvenirs.

Depart Grand Canyon National Park

Begin your journey out of the Grand Canyon National Park, heading towards your chosen departure city.

Drive to Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) or Las Vegas (LAS)

Drive from the Grand Canyon South Rim to a major airport for your departure.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is approximately a 3.5-4 hour drive, while Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas is about a 4.5-5 hour drive. Choose based on your flight arrangements.

Allow extra time for gas, food, and potential traffic. Return your rental car upon arrival at the airport.