Discover iconic landmarks, scenic drives, and natural wonders on expertly guided tours of the Black Hills National Forest, departing from Rapid City.
Rapid City serves as a perfect gateway to the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the Black Hills National Forest. This expansive protected area, covering over 1.2 million acres in western South Dakota and a small portion of northeastern Wyoming, offers a diverse tapestry of geological formations, abundant wildlife, and significant cultural sites. From towering granite peaks and whispering ponderosa pines to the solemn beauty of Mount Rushmore and the wild allure of Custer State Park, the Black Hills are a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Black Hills National Forest tours originating from Rapid City are designed to immerse visitors in this stunning environment. These excursions often combine iconic attractions with lesser-known scenic routes, providing a comprehensive experience that goes beyond a self-guided itinerary. Whether you’re captivated by the monumental sculptures carved into the mountainside, eager to spot bison roaming freely, or seeking the tranquility of the forest's deep canyons, these guided adventures offer a convenient and insightful way to explore. Expert guides share local lore, geological insights, and wildlife spotting tips, enriching the journey and ensuring you don't miss the forest's most compelling features.
Discover our top picks for black hills national forest tours in Rapid City

The best of the Black Hills in one day! Our most popular tour, and a wonderful way to make the most of your time in the beautiful Black Hills. Our experienced, local guides will take you to the highlights of the area. Private tour means you have more time to enjoy the things you want to see, a truly unique and personal experience. This tour is customizable. Questions? Contact us for more information.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a massive sculpture carved into Mount Rushmore in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. Completed in 1941 under the direction of Gutzon Borglum and his son Lincoln, the sculpture’s roughly 60-ft.-high granite faces depict U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. The site also features a museum with interactive exhibits.

Take in the best of the Black Hills on this half-day tour. We visit the must-see's of Mt Rushmore, Needles Hwy, Sylvan Lake and Iron Mountain Road. Experience Mt Rushmore with a local expert and make the most of your time in the Black Hills.

Enjoy the best of the Northern Black Hills on this day tour. As a private outing, enjoy the area at your time and pace. Wander through beautiful Spearfish Canyon, enjoying the lush greenery and waterfalls. Take in historic Deadwood, understanding its importance during the Black Hills gold rush, and how it served wild west celebrities like Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok. In Lead, see one of the largest goldmines in the world, and understand how it has found a place in a modern economy. Options include visits to Devils Tower (+$ fee), and a selection of museums in historic Deadwood.

Mount Rushmore is more than just the carvings. They have secrets that are not easily revealed. GeoFunTrek's guides are local experts with decades of experience. We have no seasonal guides, part-time guides or trainees. This is a family-owned business and all tours are conducted by family members: Cindy, Christopher and John Esposti. We have the knowledge and skills to make your day one to remember. You will always get the A-team when you tour with GeoFunTrek Tours! All tours are PRIVATE TOURS, exclusive to the group booking the tour, and no additional guests will be included. Children must be accompanied by one adult. Children 3 years and younger are free and will have their own seat. Children's car seats must be supplied by family members when required. Our vehicles are SUV's, and a larger vehicle (van) may be rented for larger groups. This is a great tour for 3-generation families with Children, multiple couples and groups of friends.

During a government shutdown, Mount Rushmore remains open and accessible to the public, but all services provided by the National Park Service (NPS) are suspended. The extent of the impact can vary based on the specifics of the shutdown, but past incidents provide a clear precedent for what to expect. Concessionaire operations: Third-party vendors who operate facilities like restaurants and gift shops (e.g., Xanterra) may remain open and provide limited services, including restrooms. These are privately-run services and are not affected by the government shutdown. State funding: During previous shutdowns, the state of South Dakota and private donors stepped in to provide funding to keep the memorial open and restore some services.

Discover the best of the Black Hills on this unforgettable evening adventure. Your tour begins with a scenic drive along the world-famous Iron Mountain Road, a winding masterpiece with pigtail bridges, mountain vistas, and tunnels leading to Mt. Rushmore. Along the way, your guide shares insightful stories of the region’s history, people, and natural beauty. Arriving at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, we’ll stroll the Avenue of the Flags for a first close-up view of the monument. Your guide will bring the story of its creation to life with engaging details about the vision, artistry, and challenges behind this American landmark. As night falls, you’ll take part in the moving Evening Illumination Ceremony, where patriotic music and storytelling culminate in the dramatic lighting of the monument. This tour blends breathtaking scenery with cultural heritage and national pride, making it one of the most memorable ways to experience Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.

Discover the most iconic landmarks of South Dakota on this full-day guided tour through the stunning Black Hills. Explore the legacy of Mount Rushmore, the cultural significance of Crazy Horse Memorial, & the untamed beauty of Custer State Park—all in one unforgettable day. Start your day at Mount Rushmore, where the faces of four presidents are carved into granite. Walk the Avenue of Flags, enjoy the views, & learn the story behind this American monument. Next, visit Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest mountain carving in progress. This monument honors Lakota leader Crazy Horse & celebrates Native American heritage. Tour the museum & see Lakota dancers. Your journey continues into Custer State Park, filled with dramatic granite peaks, pine-covered hills, and open prairie. Drive Wildlife Loop Rd, where you may encounter bison, pronghorn antelope, wild burros, & more.

The Badlands have many secrets and requires a seasoned guide to explain and reveal them. GeoFunTrek Tours' guides are local experts with decades of experience. We have no seasonal-guides, part-time guides or trainee-guides. This is a family-owned business and all tours are conducted by family members: Cindy, Christopher and John Esposti. We have the knowledge and skills to make your day one to remember. You will always get the A-Team when you tour with GeoFunTrek Tours! All tours are PRIVATE TOURS, exclusive to the group booking the tour, and no additional guests will be included. Children must be accompanied by one adult. Children 3 years and younger are free and will have their own seat. Children's car seats must be supplied by family members when required. Our vehicles are SUV's and a van may be rented for larger groups. Please enquire about vehicles if you have any questions. This tour is great for 3-generation families with Children, multiple couples and groups of friends.

TWO NEW LOCATIONS - Safe parking. Custer - 615 Washington St. 8:00am Depart Keystone - 519 1st St. 8:30am Depart Custer State Park in the one of the largest State Parks in the nation. Encompassing 71,000 acres in the Black Hills, home to abundant wildlife and adventures. Open-Top-Tours is the only company to offer 6 hour Jeep Bison Safaris to ALL of the Park. Including - seldom toured Mt Coolidge Fire Lookout - spectacular views of the Southern Hills from 6,020 ft. We tour in our unique modified Jeep Gladiators and Wranglers, with seating from 2 to 14 with great panoramic viewing. Perfect vehicles to travel the back country roads searching for roaming bison and wildlife. Our guides are professional, well informed and a 'hoot' to tour with. They will explain local history, wildlife and answer your questions. included: fees, bottled water and snacks. Tours depart Rapid City 8am - Custer 8am - Keystone 8:30am. Lots of restroom stops and extra wildlife/landscape photo ops.

This tour includes many of the most popular destinations and attractions in the Northern Black Hills. *Devils Tower National Monument ~ The First National Monument. Historically, many tribes of the Great Plains and Black Hills regions had connections with the area around Devils Tower. Stories and histories shared by tribal members indicate that the Tower was a sacred site - a place for winter camps, vision quests, and summer ceremonies. * Aladdin General Store which is the oldest general store in Wyoming since 1892. *Spearfish Canyon - Older than the Grand Canyon and is rated one of the best scenic byways in the US. Four ecosystems meet here (very rare) and several waterfalls were we picnic (included). *Sanford/Homestake Center - Old Gold and New Physics lots of info. *Deadwood - We visit Mt Moriah Cemetery, #10 Saloon, and Old Main Street. You will have time to shop on your own and you have option to watch the gunfight reenactments. * Sturgis option for photos and shopping.

Experience another world in Badlands National Park. Wildlife and fossil spotting is a favorite as we weave our way through the spires and pinnacles of the park. We make many stops, and can incorporate a hike if you wish! Lunch in the park with spectacular views will be a highlight. On to the Minuteman National Historic Site, for some incredible living WW2 history. On our way back to Rapid City, Wall Drug calls us in for homemade donuts. Tour with our knowledgable local guides and take in the park in your own time. Our private tours are flexible, with time to take photos, walk and enjoy the area as you wish to! This tour is customizable. Questions? Contact us for more information.

This tour provides a unique glimpse into the beauty and all the Badlands offer! Learn about the area's history, and spend the day taking in the rare geology of the Badlands. Lunch will be enjoyed at an exquisite local restaurant of your choosing. There is a two-person minimum to book this tour.

There's no better way to witness its raw beauty than with My XO Adventures' Badlands Sunset and Night Sky Tour. This isn’t just another tour; it's an immersive journey into one of nature's most spectacular displays, guided by experts who are as passionate about the region as they are knowledgeable. What sets this tour apart is the unparalleled access to the best sunset and night sky viewing spots in the entire Black Hills and Badlands region. As the sun dips below the horizon, the Badlands come alive with a symphony of colors that paint the sky in hues of pink, orange, and purple. Our guides know exactly where to position you for the most stunning views, ensuring you don’t just see the sunset—you feel it. To enhance this celestial experience, we provide zero-gravity chairs, allowing you to recline in ultimate comfort as you gaze up at the night sky.

Enter another world with the only e-bike tour of the Badlands, this is truly a unique way to experience this wonderful National Park. Ride along with the prairie dogs chirping and spectacular views. A private tour means we go at your pace and comfort level. A once in a lifetime opportunity awaits! If some in your group prefer regular bikes, we can arrange a mixed tour. Please contact us to discuss this option.
Experience world-renowned sites like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and the stunning granite spires of the Needles Highway.
Many tours offer opportunities to see bison herds, pronghorn, elk, and other native wildlife in their natural habitat within Custer State Park.
Learn about the history of the Lakota people, the pioneers, and the geological forces that shaped this unique region.
Tours provide comfortable transportation from Rapid City, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving.
Benefit from the insights of knowledgeable local guides who share fascinating stories and practical information about the area.
Explore everything from rugged badlands and vast prairies to deep forests and crystal-clear streams within the Black Hills.
These comprehensive tours typically cover multiple major attractions within the Black Hills National Forest and surrounding areas. Expect to see Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, and perhaps scenic drives like Needles Highway or Iron Mountain Road.
Perfect for those with limited time, half-day tours focus on one or two key highlights, most commonly Mount Rushmore and possibly a scenic viewpoint. They provide a good introduction to the Black Hills' grandeur.
These tours emphasize the stunning natural beauty and iconic viewpoints of the Black Hills. They often include drives along designated scenic byways, with ample stops for photos and appreciating the vistas. Custer State Park and its wildlife loop are common inclusions.
For those seeking a more active experience, these tours might incorporate elements like short hikes to viewpoints, guided walks, or even specialized excursions. While less common as full forest tours, they can be combined with other packages.
Tours typically range from 3-5 hours for half-day excursions to 8-10 hours for full-day adventures. Specific durations are listed on each tour's details.
The Black Hills experience variable weather. Be prepared for sunshine, potential rain, and cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations or in the evenings. Layering clothing is recommended.
Group sizes can vary from small, intimate tours with 6-10 people to larger coach tours accommodating 30-50 individuals. Check individual tour details for specifics.
Most tours include transportation, guided commentary, and entrance fees to major attractions like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse. Meals and personal expenses are typically not included unless specified.
Tours generally depart from designated pick-up points in Rapid City, often at hotels or a central visitor center. Specific meeting instructions are provided upon booking.
Prices vary based on tour length, inclusions, and operator. Expect to pay from approximately $35 for short sightseeing trips up to $150-$250 for comprehensive full-day experiences.
Book in advance, especially during peak season (summer and early fall), as popular tours fill up quickly.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. You'll be doing a fair amount of exploring, even on sightseeing tours.
Bring a reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated is important, especially during warmer months and at higher altitudes.
Pack layers of clothing. The weather in the Black Hills can change rapidly, so be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures.
Don't forget your camera and extra memory cards. The photographic opportunities are immense, from iconic monuments to wildlife sightings.
Check the specific itinerary of your chosen tour. Some focus heavily on monuments, while others prioritize scenic drives and nature.
Consider booking a tour that includes Custer State Park, as it offers incredible wildlife viewing and some of the most picturesque drives in the region.
Tip your guides and drivers if you enjoyed their service. It's a customary way to show appreciation for their effort and knowledge.
A: Guided tours from Rapid City offer a convenient way to visit Mount Rushmore, often including insightful commentary about its creation and history. They also typically handle parking and entry logistics, making for a stress-free experience.
A: Absolutely! Many tours, especially those venturing into Custer State Park, provide excellent opportunities to see bison, pronghorn, elk, and prairie dogs. Guides are often skilled at spotting them.
A: Some tours may include short, easy walks to viewpoints or short nature trails. If you're looking for extensive hiking, it's best to check the specific itinerary or consider a tour that focuses on active exploration.
A: It's wise to bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, a camera, and a jacket or sweater, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. A reusable water bottle is also a great idea.
A: Rapid City is situated right at the edge of the Black Hills National Forest. Most tours depart from Rapid City, and the drive to the first major attractions is usually quite short, often under an hour.
A: Many tours are family-friendly, especially those that focus on iconic sights and wildlife. Always check the specific tour description for age recommendations or restrictions, and consider shorter half-day options for younger children.
A: While the Badlands are geographically distinct from the Black Hills, some extended full-day or multi-day tours from Rapid City may include a visit to Badlands National Park. It's essential to check the tour itinerary for this specific inclusion.
Discover the gateway to Black Hills National Forest, offering stunning natural beauty and iconic landmarks.
Explore Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial, just a short drive from downtown.
Experience the unique Dinosaur Park, a fun and educational stop for all ages in Rapid City.
Immerse yourself in Western heritage at the Journey Museum and Learning Center, showcasing regional history.
Enjoy the vibrant downtown art scene with its famous City of Presidents statues and galleries.
Rapid City offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and accessible historical attractions.
Rapid City experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and can be hot, with occasional thunderstorms, while winters are cold and snowy. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, making them pleasant for outdoor activities.
Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) are often considered the best months to visit Rapid City, offering comfortable weather for sightseeing and fewer crowds than the summer peak.
The peak tourist season in Rapid City is typically from June through August, characterized by warm to hot weather, sunny skies, and the highest number of visitors, especially around national holidays.
The off-season includes the winter months (November-March), which can be quite cold with significant snowfall, and early spring/late fall. While weather can be unpredictable, you'll find fewer crowds and potentially lower accommodation prices.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Discover the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park on guided excursions departing from Rapid City.
Unearth ancient giants and prehistoric wonders with guided tours and activities around Rapid City, South Dakota.
Discover the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial with tours and activities departing from Rapid City, South Dakota.
Discover the rich heritage and traditions of the Lakota people through immersive cultural experiences in and around Rapid City, South Dakota.
Step back in time and explore Rapid City's rich heritage with engaging tours that bring its stories to life.
Navigating Rapid City is straightforward. While renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the surrounding Black Hills attractions, the downtown area is quite walkable. Public transportation options are limited, so consider ride-sharing services or local taxi companies for shorter trips within the city. For day trips to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, or the Badlands, a personal vehicle is essential. Getting around Rapid City and its vast natural surroundings is most convenient with your own wheels.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
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