Black Hills, South Dakota 5-Day Trip Itinerary

Drive to Rapid City

Embark on your road trip from Fort Collins to Rapid City, South Dakota.

The drive is approximately 4-5 hours, offering scenic views as you head north through Wyoming and into the Black Hills region. Be sure to pack snacks and drinks for the journey.

Lunch in Rapid City

Grab a casual lunch at a local spot in Rapid City.

There are many options ranging from diners to fast-casual restaurants perfect for refueling after your drive.

Hotel Check-in & Relaxation

Check into your hotel or Airbnb in Rapid City.

Take some time to unpack, freshen up, and relax before heading out to explore.

Explore Downtown & Art Alley

Stroll through historic downtown Rapid City, known for its vibrant Art Alley featuring murals and street art. Discover the 'City of Presidents' statues scattered throughout the streets.

Look for the bronze statues of past U.S. Presidents on every street corner.

Dinner in Rapid City

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local restaurant in Rapid City.

There are options for various tastes, from American fare to international cuisine.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Visit the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Explore the Grand View Terrace, Presidential Trail, and the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center to learn about its history and construction. Enjoy the magnificent presidential sculptures carved into the granite.

Parking fee required. The monument is particularly impressive during the morning light. Arrive early to avoid crowds.

Sylvan Lake - Custer State Park

Drive to Sylvan Lake, often called the 'Jewel of Custer State Park.

' Enjoy the stunning rock formations surrounding the lake. Perfect for a short walk or just admiring the scenery.

A Custer State Park entrance pass is required.

Lakeside Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch by Sylvan Lake or grab a bite at the Sylvan Lake Lodge for a scenic dining experience.

Drive Needles Highway

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Needles Highway (SD-87) within Custer State Park.

This scenic byway winds through granite spires, dense forests, and narrow tunnels. Be prepared for stunning photo opportunities.

A Custer State Park entrance pass is required. Some tunnels are very narrow, so be mindful of vehicle size. Your 4Runner should be fine.

Custer State Park Wildlife Loop

Embark on the Wildlife Loop Road (SD-16A) in Custer State Park, renowned for its abundant wildlife.

Keep an eye out for bison, deer, pronghorn, burros, and prairie dogs. The best times for viewing are early morning and late afternoon.

Drive slowly and respect the animals' space. Bison can be on or near the road.

Dinner in Keystone or Rapid City

Head back towards Keystone or Rapid City for dinner after a full day of exploration.

Keystone offers tourist-friendly options close to Mount Rushmore, while Rapid City provides more variety.

Crazy Horse Memorial

Visit the ongoing mountain carving of Crazy Horse, a tribute to the Native American leader.

Explore the visitor center, museums, and educational exhibits. Learn about the rich history and culture of the Lakota people.

Admission fee per person or per car. Consider taking a bus to the base of the mountain for a closer view (additional fee).

The Museum @ Black Hills Institute

Head to Hill City to visit The Museum @ Black Hills Institute.

This museum is known for its impressive collection of fossils, including dinosaur skeletons, and other natural history exhibits.

A fascinating stop for those interested in paleontology and natural history. Check their website for current hours.

Lunch in Hill City

Enjoy lunch in the charming town of Hill City, which offers several unique eateries and cafes.

It's often called the 'Heart of the Black Hills' and has a quaint, historic feel.

Black Hills Outdoor Fun: ATV Tour

Experience the Black Hills National Forest on an exciting ATV tour.

These guided tours allow you to explore trails and areas you might miss on your own, perfect for an adventurous group.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for a group of 5. They provide training and equipment.

Dinosaur Park (Free Activity)

Visit Dinosaur Park, a free, kid-friendly attraction on a hilltop overlooking Rapid City.

It features large, green dinosaur statues, offering great photo opportunities and panoramic views of the city.

A fun, quick stop with fantastic views.

Dinner in Rapid City

Enjoy your final dinner in Rapid City for this segment of the trip.

Perhaps try a highly-rated local restaurant or revisit a favorite spot.

Drive to Badlands National Park

Depart from your Black Hills lodging (e.

g., Rapid City/Custer area) and enjoy the scenic drive east towards Badlands National Park. The landscape will gradually transform into dramatic, otherworldly formations. Remember to adjust for the time zone change (Mountain to Central Time) as you head east.

Ben Reifel Visitor Center & Short Trails

Arrive at Badlands National Park and start at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to get maps, learn about the park's geology and wildlife, and check for ranger programs.

Afterward, explore the easy Door Trail and Window Trail nearby for your first close-up views of the Badlands formations.

A National Park Pass (America the Beautiful) is highly recommended for entrance. Otherwise, the entrance fee is approximately USD 30 for one vehicle, valid for 7 days. This is July 4th, so expect more visitors.

Badlands Loop Scenic Byway

Embark on the iconic 39-mile Badlands Loop Scenic Byway (Highway 240).

Stop at numerous overlooks like Big Badlands Overlook, Panorama Point, and Yellow Mounds Overlook to capture stunning photos of the varied colors and textures of the formations. Keep an eye out for prairie dogs, bison, and bighorn sheep.

Pack plenty of water and snacks, as services are limited once you're on the loop. There are many pull-offs for quick stops and photo opportunities.

Hike the Notch Trail

For an adventurous group, tackle the challenging Notch Trail.

This 1.5-mile (2.4 km) round trip trail includes navigating a log ladder and offers incredible views of the White River Valley. It's a true Badlands experience!

Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for exposure to sun. The ladder can be intimidating for some. Alternative: Fossil Exhibit Trail (0.25 mile loop, paved, accessible) for an easier walk and fossil viewing.

Set Up Camp & Dinner

Head to Cedar Pass Campground within the park.

Set up your tents and prepare a simple dinner. Enjoy the tranquil evening surrounded by the unique Badlands landscape.

Reservations for Cedar Pass Campground are highly recommended, especially for July 4th weekend. Cost is about USD 23 per night. Facilities include flush toilets and potable water. There is a nearby restaurant/store (Cedar Pass Lodge) if you prefer not to cook.

Stargazing in Badlands

Badlands National Park boasts some of the darkest night skies in the country.

Lay out under the stars and marvel at the Milky Way. On July 4th, if there are any distant fireworks, they might be visible, but the true spectacle will be the natural night sky.

Bring a blanket or chairs, and a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. Ranger-led astronomy programs are often offered during summer; check the visitor center schedule.

Sunrise Views & Breakfast

Wake up early to catch a breathtaking Badlands sunrise over the formations.

Enjoy a quick, packed breakfast at your campsite before packing up.

Check sunrise times in advance. Coffee/tea from the Cedar Pass Lodge is an option if you prefer not to cook. Ensure campsite is left clean.

Visit Wall Drug Store

Head to the famous Wall Drug Store, a classic roadside attraction.

Grab free ice water and coffee (5 cents!), explore the kitschy shops, diner, and unique photo ops. It’s a fun, quirky stop on your way out of the Badlands.

A quintessential American road trip experience, definitely worth a stop for the novelty and a souvenir. It's often busy, especially on a Sunday in July.

Minuteman Missile NHS

Explore the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site.

Visit the Delta-09 Launch Facility and the Oscar-01 Launch Control Facility (exterior view and visitor center exhibits). Learn about the Cold War era and the history of nuclear missiles in the U.S.

The visitor center is just off I-90. The Delta-09 silo is also easily accessible. Tours of the Launch Control Facility require advance booking and may be limited, but the main exhibits are still very informative. There are no fees for this site.

Lunch in Wall or Picnic

Enjoy a casual lunch in Wall, perhaps at the Wall Drug Store diner or another local eatery, before starting your longer drive back west.

Alternatively, pack a picnic to save time and money.

Begin Return Drive to Fort Collins, CO

Start the long but scenic drive back to Fort Collins, CO.

You'll take I-90 West, then likely US-85 South and I-25 South. Plan for comfort stops and driver changes.