Looking for a little adventure outside SLC, one that entails traversing countless miles of otherworldly landscapes? When you feel the time is right to travel, the Black Hills are calling! Epic trails await your footsteps in western South Dakota, where ruggedly beautiful terrain, fascinating history and impressive herds of wildlife make for an outdoors lover’s paradise.

There’s a scenic overlook around every corner in and around the Black Hills, and excellent trails for hikers of every skill level. Read on to learn how to make the most of your itinerary, then hit the road to unforgettable fun. Don't forget to order your Vacation Guide to discover even more South Dakota adventures!

Gas up and head east on I-80. After nearly three hours on the road, you’re probably ready for a bite. Stop by Open Range Restaurant at The Outlaw Inn. The menu here is extensive, and the coffee they serve will help fuel the next leg of your journey. 

Continue east on I-80, then catch northbound U.S. Route 287 in Rawlins. If you’re up for a sit-down dinner at a higher-end restaurant, head to Fire Rock Steakhouse & Grill. 

If you’re ready to call it a day, check in at Casper C’Mon Inn or Red Butte Ranch – both offer friendly service in an authentically western setting.

If you stayed over, grab breakfast at Sherrie’s Place or Eggington’s before embarking on the last leg of your trek. Head north on I-25, then veer east on Route 259 before catching Route 387 to the northeast. Then hop on eastbound Route 450 to U.S. 16, which takes you into South Dakota! Once you’ve crossed the state line, you’re not very far from all the fun – so get excited.

Things to Do

On the way into Custer, make a stop at Jewel Cave National Monument (11149 US-16 B-12), and marvel at the crystalline walls of this expansive cavern. 

Once you’re settled in, it’s time to hit the trail – and there are plenty to choose from. Black Hills National Forest has over 350 miles of hiking trails. This includes Custer State Park’s iconic Black Elk Peak, which at 7,242 feet, is the highest point in the state. There are multiple trail options here that vary both in length and difficulty, but plan on setting aside a day for your trek, and be sure to bring enough food and water to fuel your adventure.

Also, a nearby must-see is Crazy Horse Memorial. When complete, this will be the largest stone carving of its kind in the world. There’s plenty of room to wander here, and the Native American Museum offers great insights into indigenous culture & life. Of course, Mount Rushmore is a must while you’re here. To spot herds of buffalo roaming the countryside, drive through Custer State Park, where you’ll find gorgeous pristine nature within its 71,000 acres. You’ll also find elk, burros and other creatures wandering the hillsides.

To keep the adventure going, head east on I-90. Stop at legendary roadside attraction Wall Drug (510 Main St.), where you’ll spot the elusive jackalope and get your fill of western art (and their famous donuts, of course). Enjoy more stunning vistas and great trails by entering Badlands National Park. Make time to catch awe-inspiring views at Yellow Mounds and Pinnacles Overlook – they’re some of the best vantage points in the park – before continuing on to Big Badlands Overlook before you exit the park near Interior. Take in the nearby Minuteman Missile Visitors Center (24545 Cottonwood Road), an intriguing slice of Cold War history located in an actual missile silo. 

Where to Eat

Restaurants in and around Custer run the gamut from seasonal, chef-driven bistros to hearty, stick-to-your-ribs frontier fare (and, sometimes, they’re both). Find delicious craft beer and imaginative pub fare at Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company & Pounding Fathers Restaurant (140 Mt. Rushmore Road) Find sophisticated dishes and a great wine list at Skogen Kitchen (29 N 5th St.) and passionate locavore plates at Sage Creek Grille (611 Mt. Rushmore Road).

Places to Stay

Explore Custer and the surrounding area with a basecamp that’s a stone’s throw from the trails, one that immerses you in the local vibe. Chalet Motel (933 Mt. Rushmore Road), Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins (15 Mt. Rushmore Road) and Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel (12350 Moss Rock Lane) will make you feel right at home. 

Rest easy in Hill City at Pine Rest Cabins (24063 US-385) or Trails End Cabins & Motel (320 Park St.). Or, get rustic and immerse yourself in Black Hills beauty minutes from Mount Rushmore at Powder House Lodge (24125 US-16A) or K Bar S Lodge (434 Old Hill City Road) in Keystone.