Things To Do
Hike Black Elk Peak
Black Elk Peak is a moderate-strenuous 7-mile round-trip hike with beautiful 360-degree views from the historic fire tower at the peak. We recommend beginning your hike at Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park and bringing plenty of water! Depending on the day, you could be standing in the clouds, just like we did!
ATV Riding
With over 600 miles of trails, the Black Hills is the perfect place to see untouched beauty by riding ATVs. We recommend Adventure Rentals in Hill City for half- and full-day rentals. This is something we have enjoyed so much as a couple!
Explore Downtown
If shopping and good eats is more your vibe, downtown Hill City, Rapid City, and Keystone are your places to go! Explore the many clothing stores, coffee shops, restaurants, and trinket shops there are to offer! The Chute Rooster in Hill City offers live music on Friday nights, so we recommend you stop by for a drink when you roll into town!
Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore is a must-stop when visiting the Black Hills! Whether you're wandering through the museum or simply there for the ice cream, it doesn't disappoint!
Other Recommendations
A few other things we recommend checking out includes Bear Country and Reptile Gardens. Both of these destinations are on your way from Rapid City to the Ranch. Also, if you have time on your drive out to the Hills, stop by and see the historic Badlands National Park!