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7 Days of Hiking and Nature in Black Hills Itinerary
Published: 2024 May 25Exploring Custer State Park
Morning
Start your adventure with a hike on the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail. This easy 1-mile loop offers stunning views of Sylvan Lake and the surrounding granite formations. It's a great way to ease into your week of hiking.
Afternoon
After your morning hike, head to Perkins Restaurant & Bakery for a hearty lunch. Then, explore the Wildlife Loop Road by car or bike. This 18-mile loop takes you through some of the best wildlife viewing areas in Custer State Park, where you can see bison, pronghorns, and other native animals.
Evening
End your day with dinner at Mad Mary's Steakhouse & Saloon. Enjoy a delicious steak while reflecting on the day's adventures.
Bedtime
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Discovering Needles Highway
Morning
Begin your day with a drive along the Needles Highway. This scenic byway winds through narrow tunnels and past towering granite spires. Stop at various pullouts to take short hikes and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Afternoon
For lunch, visit La Minestra in nearby Rapid City. Afterward, head back to Black Hills for a hike on the Little Devil's Tower Trail. This moderate 3-mile round trip offers panoramic views of the Black Hills from the summit.
Evening
Dine at RedRossa Italian Grille for an Italian feast. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Bedtime
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Hiking Harney Peak
Morning
Set out early for a hike to Harney Peak, also known as Black Elk Peak. At 7 miles round trip, this challenging trail rewards you with incredible views from the highest point east of the Rockies.
Afternoon
Enjoy lunch at Zesto Shop in Custer before heading to Jewel Cave National Monument for an afternoon tour of one of the longest caves in the world.
Evening
Have dinner at Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant in Custer. Savor some authentic Mexican cuisine after a long day of hiking.
Bedtime
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Exploring Spearfish Canyon
Morning
Drive to Spearfish Canyon and start your day with a hike on the Roughlock Falls Trail. This easy 2-mile round trip leads you to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in South Dakota.
Afternoon
Lunch at Tokyo Japanese Cuisine in Spearfish before continuing your exploration with a drive through Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. Stop at various points along the way for short hikes and photo opportunities.
Evening
End your day with dinner at Drifters Bar & Grille. Enjoy some local fare while relaxing after a full day immersed in nature.
Bedtime
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Exploring Wind Cave National Park
Morning
Start your day with a hike on the Wind Cave Canyon Trail. This moderate 1.8-mile trail offers beautiful views of the park's unique landscape and is a great way to begin your exploration of Wind Cave National Park.
Afternoon
After your morning hike, head to Pizza Ranch in Custer for a delicious lunch. Then, take a guided tour of Wind Cave itself. The cave is known for its rare boxwork formations and extensive underground passages.
Evening
End your day with dinner at McClelland's Restaurant. Enjoy a relaxing meal and reflect on the day's adventures.
Bedtime
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Adventures in Badlands National Park
Morning
Badlands Loop Road is a must-see. Start early to drive this scenic route, stopping at overlooks and trailheads along the way. Hike the Notch Trail, a moderate 1.5-mile round trip that offers stunning views of the Badlands.
Afternoon
RedRossa Italian Grille is perfect for lunch in Rapid City before heading back to explore more of Badlands National Park. Consider hiking the Castle Trail, a longer 10-mile round trip that takes you through some of the park's most dramatic landscapes.
Evening
Tokyo Japanese Cuisine offers a delightful dinner option in Rapid City after your day of adventure.
Bedtime
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Relaxing Day at Pactola Lake
Morning
Pactola Lake is an ideal spot for your final day. Start with a leisurely hike on the Osprey Trail, which offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forest.
Afternoon
La Minestra in Rapid City provides an excellent lunch option before you return to enjoy some water activities at Pactola Lake such as kayaking or paddleboarding.
Evening
Drifters Bar & Grille is perfect for your farewell dinner in Black Hills. Enjoy some local cuisine while reminiscing about your week-long adventure.
Bedtime
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