Snuggled between Rapid City and the western border of South Dakota, the Black Hills are an island of majestic mountains and trees that rise among fields and rolling hills. This area first came to life around the 1870s when early-day prospectors found gold while mining in nearby streams.
The Black Hills gives something for truly everyone. There are well over one hundred attractions in the vicinity of the Black Hills. Choose from hiking, fishing, horseback riding, mine tours, panning for gold, rock hunting, exploring caves, scenic drives, beautiful parks, national monuments, and much more.
If the Old West interests you, be sure, and visit Deadwood to encounter some authentic Old West history. Later on, board the 1880 train in Hill City and take a two hour round trip journey back in time.
No trip to the Black Hills is intact without undergoing a chuckwagon supper and show. There are numerous places to choose from. We’ve been to the Circle B Ranch Chuckwagon Supper and Music Show and had a pleasant time. The food was good and so was the performance. Plus, there were pony rides, gold panning, and other fun for the entire family.
Of course, the top magnet in the Black Hills is visiting Mount Rushmore. This striking monument is a “must-see” for every family. Carved out of 5725 foot Mount Rushmore are portraits of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. This majestic work of art took many years to finish and was completed in 1941. Be sure and visit Mount Rushmore, and while you are there stop by the sculptor’s studio to see some of the models and tools that were used during the carving process.
All and all, the Black Hills is an exceptional choice for any family vacation. The area has so much to see and do, that everyone will have fun, and most of the temptations are very reasonably priced. Have a safe trip, and create some fabulous memories that will last a lifetime!
