Things to do nearBlack Hills National Forest
Black Hills National Forest in the South Dakota highlands offers sweeping ponderosa pine forests, dramatic granite peaks, and miles of scenic backcountry trails.
Black Hills National Forest has deep roots in both natural and human history. The Lakota people have long considered these hills sacred, calling them Paha Sapa. European-American settlement accelerated in the 1870s following reports of gold, and the forest was established in 1897 as one of the earliest national forests in the country.
Visitors today find an extraordinary range of terrain. Harney Peak, now called Black Elk Peak, stands as the highest point in the United States east of the Rockies. Granite formations, limestone caves, and open grasslands sit alongside dense pine and spruce forest, creating habitats for elk, mule deer, mountain goats, and wild turkey.
The forest surrounds several well-known landmarks, including Mount Rushmore and Jewel Cave National Monument, making it a natural hub for regional exploration. Scenic byways like Iron Mountain Road wind through the trees with tunnels and pigtail bridges framing iconic views.
The atmosphere throughout Black Hills National Forest is one of quiet grandeur, a place where history, geology, and wilderness converge in a way that makes every visit feel genuinely distinctive.
7-day forecast
Chance of rainTips for visiting Black Hills National Forest
Visit during late May or early June when wildflowers blanket the meadows and crowds are smaller than peak summer months.
Try hiking the Centennial Trail, which runs over 100 miles through the forest and connects diverse terrain from prairies to pine ridges.
Bring layers year-round, as temperatures at higher elevations can drop sharply even on warm summer afternoons.
Look for wild burros near Custer State Park on the forest's southern edge, a quirky and memorable encounter unique to this region.
Arrive at Sylvan Lake early in the morning to enjoy calm reflections on the water before day visitors arrive.
Top tours & experiences near Black Hills National Forest
Ride a 6-Seat UTV Rental in Deadwood
Rent a 6-seat Can-Am Defender UTV and start riding from the property
Guided 50-Minute Black Hills Horseback Ride
Saddle up on a horse matched to you and explore Black Hills forest trails with expert wranglers
Winter Guided Tour of Mount Rushmore & Crazy Horse
See Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse with a guide, plus scenic Black Hills drives
Ride a Yamaha RMAX2 UTV Rental in Deadwood
Rent a 2-seat Yamaha RMAX2 and hit trails right from the property
Tour Mount Rushmore & Black Hills by Bus
See Mount Rushmore and tour the Black Hills by bus with a guide