5 min
September 7, 2023
Spearfish Canyon
This narrow yet deep canyon is estimated to be over 30 million years old and boasts a number of beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, impressive limestone walls, and a plethora of flora and fauna. Wildlife such as deer, bobcats, and mountain goats call this place home as well as a variety of birds.
Custer State Park
Located in Southwestern South Dakota, Custer State Park has beautiful mountain lakes, vibrant forests, and lovely prairies. The buffalo really do roam here, over 1,000 of them actually, as well as elk, pronghorn antelope, mountain goats, deer, begging burros, and prairie dogs. If you’re a wildlife lover, this is definitely a must see location. The park also offers great trout fishing, camping, rock climbing, scenic drives, and if you visit in September, a spectacular buffalo roundup.
Wind Cave National Park
Entering Wind Cave is like walking into a different world. This long complex cave has unique formations called boxwork (think honeycomb), something that’s rarely seen anywhere else. With over 142 miles of passages, there is a ton to explore here. The park also has over 28,000 acres of mixed-grass prairie in which you can find elk, bison, and coyotes.
Badlands National Park
This expansive park, 244,000 acres to be exact, features buttes, prairie, pinnacles, canyons, and spires. This dramatic landscape is a must-see either by foot or car. Great for hiking, stargazing, fossil hunting, and wildlife viewing, Badlands National Park is full of beauty at every turn.
Mount Rushmore National Monument
Mount Rushmore is something everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. A symbol of democracy and freedom, the memorial features the faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Carved into the granite mountainside, each face is nearly 60-feet tall. While you are there, take in the great views of the Black Hills.