ILLUSTRATIVE STATE SCENEThe South Dakota edition / plains to pines
Give the wide-open
world more time.
The Badlands change in the light. The Black Hills ask for a slower drive. Build a route that leaves room to learn whose land you are traveling through.
THE WTDO FIELD GUIDE / SDCHOOSE YOUR FIRST MOVE
A trip that fits your time.
Tap a route to see the places, overnight bases and a practical next step.
3 days · 3 places
Badlands to Black Hills
A first look with distinct overnight bases and no attempt to see everything.
- Day 1Give the Badlands Loop Road its own daylight.Overnight idea · Wall
- Day 2Move into the Black Hills and stay near Custer.Overnight idea · Custer
- Day 3Visit Mount Rushmore and keep time for exhibits.Overnight idea · Keystone
FOUR WAYS INTO SOUTH DAKOTA
Pick the scene that calls to you.
Each stop has a first move, a field guide and an official source.
ILLUSTRATIVE PLACE SCENEThe landscape changes every hour
Badlands National Park
Drive the Badlands Loop Road with time for overlooks, short walks and the stories the land holds.
Begin at Ben Reifel Visitor Center or an overlook and check road conditions before entering remote areas.
A USEFUL THING TO CHECK
A cave tour is a separate plan
At Wind Cave, guided cave tours have limited tickets and conditions can change. Check the official schedule and reservation details before driving there for a tour.
Wind Cave tour information ↗Plan with the place, not just the picture.
THE NEXT STEP
Make room for the trip.
Start with a route you like. Keep the practical details together in WTDO, then decide if you want Butler along for the journey.
Booking links open partner sites. WTDO may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.Your next good stop.
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