What NOT to do in Deadwood & The Black Hills of South Dakota

[@johnsteele1667]

Something I would add is don’t touch any ribbons placed by natives. They’re especially present at devils tower, bear butte, and black elk peak.

[@Adam12128]

Is that what those sticks covered in different materials and colors are? I've done Black Elk Peak twice now and I was wondering both times why there the colored fabrics are there. It looks really similar to what a lot of mountains have to mark the peak, so I thought it was something to do with the trail/peak.

[@johnsteele1667]

@@Adam12128 if you’re talking about the pole with a bunch of cloths tied around it I’m not too sure I remember seeing it myself but I’m referring to the small colorful pieces you see tied to trees. I think the flagpole is like a way to mark you’ve been there since I have seen bandanas and other cloths that natives most likely wouldn’t use

[@celestepalm6949]

Devil's Tower should be called Bear's Lodge or Bear Tent. I've noticed we've had a bad history of re-naming beautiful areas "Devil's this" or "Diablo that."

[@PeterPeli]

@@doxop6109 it's not litter, pea-brain.

[@jonwagner2150]

Harney peak

[@roedhunt]

I grew up in Rapid City and I can tell you that it is so busy during Sturgis Rally that the Rapid City residents literally rent out their back yard for bikers. That's how busy and packed it is!

[@neildewitt2869]

I've don't that!

[@jamesmiddleton5304]

DONT skip the lighting ceremony at Mt Rushmore. It is so awesome and patriotic. Tells the story of all 4 presidents that were chosen. Simply wonderful. Oh , and dont forget to bring a jacket or sweater to it. Cools off quickly when the sun goes down.

[@wolfmaster3033]

Local here! I was born and raised here! He is right! It may be beautiful here but remember to pack warm clothes cause the weather here is kind of iffy!

[@Arkasha-Z]

I remember once it was 105° here in SD and then snowed the same night so you're right

[@wolfmaster3033]

@@Arkasha-Z yeah

[@foxyroxy162]

Local here! One thing I’d say is you made it sound like there’s only steaks and bar food in the hills. There’s phenomenal food all around the Black Hills. Alpine Inn in Hill City has authentic German cuisine and it’s amazing. There’s an Indian food restaurant in downtown Rapid City. Crab leg buffet in Deadwood. Trust me there’s much more than steaks! And the steaks that we do have are great too! :)

[@michaelsuzio4364]

Do they have vegan food??? I live in louisiana but want to drive to mt rushmore and yellowstone pretty soon

[@ldd5401]

@@michaelsuzio4364 pay attention to me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@Kermit46]

@@michaelsuzio4364 there are some places but I wouldn't expect much.

[@helgaharris4677]

Local here! Try the Prime Rip on Friday nights at the St. Patrick's Bowling Alley - very good and very reasonable priced!

[@danfurness5007]

@@michaelsuzio4364 no

[@onegirlarmy4401]

As a mom, I highly recommend that families do the Mammoth Dig Site, Reptile Gardens, Journey Museum, and 1880's Town. They're all near Rapid City!

[@halfassranch8363]

Reptile gardens is fun. We did the 1880 Santa train this year and our son enjoyed it.

[@stockinettestitch]

And Bear Country is so fun

[@Panther_420]

@@stockinettestitch I was just going to say that

[@ethelkalsow582]

1880 train ride in hill city is so fun for kids

[@gomogo2000]

And Evan's Plunge hot springs public pool. It's even more amazing that the bottom is made of stones! I found a turquoise stone there, and it's my favorite Black Hills souvenir.

[@cookwithsarah2136]

We went to the Black Hills for vacation this past Labor Day, and it was one of the best vacations I've ever had. We stayed at a hotel in Rapid City, so we were close to everything. All the people are very nice and patriotic. At Deadwood, we took a tour of the new Brothel museum, checked out the shops, saw Mount Moriah Cemetery, the saloon where Wild Bill was shot, and saw the play of The Trial of Jack McCall. Also took a stagecoach ride around town that talked about the history of the area. The second day, we checked out Mount Rushmore and drove the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway. For dinner, we went to the Chuckwagon Supper Show where you can see the set of Dances with Wolves. Third day, we went to Keystone and rode the 1886 Train. We checked out the National Presidential Wax Museum and did some shopping along the main street. Fourth day, we toured Rapid City. We went to one of the wineries and checked out the Sioux Trading Post as well as some other shops. For dinner, we went to a steakhouse called Delmonico Grill. On the drive home, we stopped at Wall Drug and got the slices of pie with 5-cent coffee. Wall Drug has everything from clothing, to home goods, to Western clothing, to pharmacy, and so much more. Plus, they have a scenic backyard. Also stopped at Sioux Falls during the drive home to get macarons from CH Patisserie (best macarons in the world!). I recommend the Black Hills to everyone. Even with 4 days of vacation, there was still a lot left to be explored. I can't wait to go back!

[@helgaharris4677]

I live in Rapid City for more than 30 years and love it!

[@crystalbluewire3339]

I delight in your wonderful account . Come and see us again.

[@neildewitt2869]

I've been to Sturgis Rally 11 times and try to not see the same things each time. There is that much within 100 miles give or take a few more miles!

[@stevedietrich8936]

@@neildewitt2869 If you haven't already done it, ride through the Nebraska sand hills. I think the road number is Nebraska 97 going south out of Valentine. Not a thrill ride but amazingly tall sandy hills.

[@neildewitt2869]

@@stevedietrich8936 for some reason every time I drive in Nebraska I get a speeding ticket. I guess I'm just not ready for another but thanks for the heads up. Sounds like you trip to the Black Hills was fun.

[@jegnur]

Iron Mountain Road and Needles Highway are a MUST

[@cerhart7172]

Absolutely.

[@greenidguy9292]

Yes, for sure...did both and more Aug. of 2020...will definitely be Bach Aug. of 2021

[@jhask64]

👍🏼 5/30/20 A must ride!! Loved it.

[@LegendStormcrow]

I miss those roads.

[@jerryshelby1128]

my son was a biker and like many brothers and sisters Sturgis was an annual trip to biker Mecca. he passed away and requested his ashes be spread around iron mountain road. what is the reality of that happening

[@truejaneysue8269]

I lived with my family on Ellsworth AFB when I was 7 years old. I absolutely loved all of the scenic areas, Mount Rushmore (and even Wall Drug😋). Crazy Horse has actually come a long way in over 50 years, but it's been a very slow process. I would love to visit again someday soon. Thank you for this informative video.

[@halfassranch8363]

A big don't you forgot, DO NOT PET THE FLUFFY COWS aka Buffalo. They will hurt or kill you....

[@mysteryxoxstarxo]

THANK YOU! It drives me CRAZY when I see tourists getting OUT of their car to get a better picture of a mother bison and calf.... They are just as protective as bears, only way bigger and have horns. Don't do it. Lol

[@lowercherty]

Don't forget Custer State Park wildlife loop or Needles Highway. I was in Custer for work during Bike Week. Even at the opposite end of the Black Hills from Sturgis the taffic was unbelievable.

[@keithsogge]

I wish you had mentioned the wood carving scenes in the Adams Museum. They were made by my Dad. You can see a glimpse of their cases at time stamp 3:02 in the upper left.

[@donaldbean6291]

I've been to deadwood twice and those carvings are the coolest

[@ninjamom1602]

We are currently in the area visiting. Is the museum wheelchair friendly?

[@Maryjobeug]

Local here- There's also over 450 miles of trails you can hike. Many allow biking or horseback riding too. Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park both have buffalo herds and other wildlife to spot. Late June is the best time to see wildflowers on the canyon drives. Especially Vanocker Canyon which isn't as known as Spearfish Canyon.

[@mattswisher6678]

Dear tourist, the Buffalo are tame please go pet them

[@crystalbluewire3339]

I think I love you.

[@Panther_420]

@@mattswisher6678 love it lol we always get tourists that want to take selfies with them

[@neildewitt2869]

It's a beautiful canyon too!

[@Tiffinysue]

i live in deadwood, i totally drove by you filming this one morning. haha!

[@woltersworld]

You should have stopped and said hi 👋

[@Tiffinysue]

i honked and you looked at me and nodded

[@doomslayer3036]

@@woltersworld you left out the top notch hunting opportunities we got you get out in the sticks and there's magnificent views if your willing to drive atv trails and take a short hike in places

[@damienosullivan193]

@@woltersworld I have always wondered, do you often have people walk up to you for travel advice in person? And I also developed a soft spot for the south with a good combination of great food and friendly people. Yes, a lot of us like to travel for well known sites we have seen on tv, but it is more about the people for me, even if where you are is not all that exciting, just as long as the locals are happy to spend time talking to you that alone will make me want to come back. Thankyou for your videos.

[@themarionette4468]

I live about 2 hours out of deadwood

[@jmn5600]

We spent 3 nights based out of Deadwood this past summer (no kids). We missed Sturgis bike week by about 3 weeks so traffic wasn’t bad, and hotels were reasonable. We hit Devil’s Tower, CrazyHorse and Mt Rushmore, Spearfish Canyon, Badlands, and lots of other sites. From there we headed up to NDakota to Theodore Roosevelt NP, then back to Ky via Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois. It was a nice road trip in a pandemic era.

[@CarrieV9]

Turned out to be a blessing missing Sturgis as it was a Covid superspreader event

[@jmn5600]

Yes, we were there after July 4 and before Sturgis, while numbers were still low in the Dakotas. We’ve been careful on our road trips to try to explore in areas without many crowds, and we don’t stick around where masks aren’t being worn

[@woltersworld]

Thats a cool trip

[@jerryprice5484]

I've been visiting the Black Hills since I was a kid (1957) and your advice is dead on. The only things I can add is that you forgot to mention Custer State Park and the wildlife loop. Also, you are so right about the food. However, speaking for myself as long as I get my buffalo burger I'm a happy camper. Once again, excellent advice.

[@smmichie]

We’re right in the middle of our 6 day vacation in the Black Hills. I’ve always wanted to visit this area. It is absolutely beautiful here.

[@ARandomDonut]

Fun Fact: if you go to Rushmore early enough (5 or 6AM) you won't have to pay for parking because there is no one to enforce it at those hours. I think the first parking people show up at 7 or 8AM. The monument is open 24 hours so if you go between midnight and 6AM, you can get in completely free.

[@timfischer]

Great tip but I'd pay money to not get up that early personally lol.

[@mickthedawg4575]

My Most favorite trip to any area I have ever been to. The beauty of this place and the Badlands cannot be described and picture do not do it justice. Amazingly beautifull place.

[@lottiewright6836]

South Dakota is Beautiful! There are plenty of places to go I must admit Crazy Horse is mt absolute favorite! There is so much more to the Black Hills, as my sister used to live there . and is now buried there I had the advantage to see many things!!R.I.P sis I'm ready for a road trip!!! Your headstone coming soon

[@mountainman0522]

I used to work as a seasonal park ranger at Wind Cave National Park, having lived in the Black Hills for a few years. Don’t skip out on taking a guided tour of both Wind Cave and Jewel Cave. Two of the longest cave systems in the world, and each vastly different from one another with their own unique formations; located just 40 minutes apart. You don’t have to be a biker to go enjoy Sturgis even during the rally. Yes, it will be insanely busy because it’s a tiny town that suddenly takes in half a million people or more one week of the year, so be patient if you do go and remember your manners. But you can enjoy the live music, and festival atmosphere there as well if motorcycles aren’t your cup of tea. I’ve generally found most of the bikers to be pretty friendly and respectful overall. Lastly, don’t skip out on the Purple Pie Place in Custer!

[@rexoliver7780]

My brothers live in SouthbDakota-one in Soux Falls,other in Rapid City. I am in Greenville,North Carolina. When I go to Rapid City-always vist Mount Rushmore,Badlands,Crazyhorse,and Wall Drug. Always visit in the summer when the attractions are operating and the weather is best. Winter is just too cold and snow. This is an excellent little video-love the enthusiastic and bubbly-happy presentation!

[@chocolate_sauerkraut]

Local here: I highly recommend checking out Cosmos mystery area that's between Rapid City and Hill City. It's a great time for families and is a really fun experience. And if you have the chance, if you're traveling between West River and East River I'd recommend stopping to observe the Dignity of Earth and Sky statue off of Chamberlain. It's not near as in depth like crazy horse or Rushmore but it is an incredibly beautiful piece of art and serves as a great symbol of respect for the Native American culture

[@joselase6894]

IF that Cosmos Mystery Area hasn't changed at that time :()

[@joselase6894]

Crazy Horse - what a tragic tale of family greed. Taking in donations, but never finishing the build. That 40' foot feather will only take 90 more years to build.

[@christinacupil7801]

Born and raised ❣️ been all over the country and Mexico (currently living) and nothing compares 😁

[@barbaraadleman8645]

We started taking our kids back in 1996 and was amazed at everything to see. This year we are bringing the grandkids and we are trying to figure out what to show them because it does take more than one trip to see it all. Two sites we really like is just outside Rapid City. It is Bear Country, where you drive thru the park and just back from there is Reptile Gardens. Both of these are fun and must see for kids. Thanks for the video. We love it in South Dakota.

[@Tinyoak2]

storybook Island is a good spot, depending on the grandkids ages ( anything under 10-ish, mostly). That is in Rapid City, and then Flintstone village in Custer ( again aimed towards a younger crowd, I guess). If all else fails, growing up we use to drive down to Hot Springs to the Indoor water park ( it's heated by the hot springs ). That is good for everyone.

[@stevemullen2963]

We live in Des Moines and go to the Black Hills every year around early September. We spend at least a week there and stay at the hotel on the KOA campground near Mt. Rushmore. You need to go there for the night lighting ceremony. That is one of those ceremonies that truly makes you proud to be an American. Alpine Inn in Hill city has the absolute best dessert menu anywhere - the bread pudding will make you drool like a dog when you just think about how good it is! We go to all the sites and do some horseback riding and rent the 4 wheelers - you can drive them all over the Black Hills area. So much to do. We spend at least a week there every year. Awesome vacation.

[@foxyroxy162]

YES! Alpine Inn has some of the best food in the black hills.

[@stevemullen2963]

@@foxyroxy162 I live about 10 hours from there and I craved some of their food so bad that I was trying to get a weekend figured out where I could drive there in time for the evening meal and get the bread pudding, spend the night and get back in time for work on Monday! I couldn't convince my GF to join me but I was pretty close to doing it.

[@DaveBondJr]

My wife and I were there late August - early September , we biked the Mickelson Trail both directions and ran into some folks from Iowa on ATVs in Rochford

[@giraffes_suck]

I live in rapid city and just spent the long weekend in Des Moines, I loved the breakfast at machine shed

[@stevemullen2963]

@@giraffes_suck Did you tour the Living History Farms while you were here?

[@fernandochavez4312]

My wife is from Brookings SD. We both love the Black Hills. Why I’d go so far as to say they got the seven wonders of the world beat by three.😁

[@janestaples1046]

I'm lucky enough to live out side of Deadwood. There's something going on all the time. In October there was the buffalo run in Custer State Park while there definitely do the needle's highway . Yesterday there where more animals out and about in Spearfish Canyon we saw 6 mountain goats grazing along the road. A BIG DON'T that you forgot was DON'T SPEED there's lots of wild life the deer mule and white tail can be seen almost everywhere and along the highway to

[@reesy6176]

Oh yeah right! Wild animals are not tame and when you are getting that good shot with them you are in danger. Just ask the lady that tried to pet a buffalo calf this summer.

[@allyshoup4402]

I liked the crazy horse memorial more than mount Rushmore. I feel like there's more heart put into the memorial, the museums, the shops, the presentations, everything.

[@yousircantknow8987]

Lol, it will never be finished.

[@michaelpitonak3396]

You didnt mention the best place in the area! Custer State Park...Needles Highway, iron Mountain rode, 1500 head of buffalo, sylvan lake, many restaurants, cabins and rooms to rent, wildlife, scenery, horseback and wagon rides.

[@777jamesrc]

Nicely done, sir! I was skeptical as a lifetime resident. You are well informed and provided some great advice. Good suggestion on Crazy Horse. You’ll be blown away on how much unique history and collections in the museum. The Needles Highway is a treasure.

[@jameschandler2776]

Very nice presentation. I have been to Mt. Rushmore a dozen times and to Keystone and Rapid City but when we were working, we were usually headed for Yellowstone and we just sort of passed through. I wish I had taken more time to visit all the other towns in the region. The Black Hills are an over looked gem by many people. It is one of the most beautiful areas in the U.S. I wish more stuff was open after Labor day because that is when we travel the most because we don't like the big crowds.

[@smhart67]

When we visited Mount Rushmore the entry fee was $30 for a thirty day pass! The National Parks pass is worthless!

[@jameschandler2776]

@@smhart67 WOW, we never had to pay when we went there.

[@mollyadames377]

Great video! As a SD native, I'd add just a couple of thoughts... spend an afternoon at one of the lakes- my favorites are Sylvan Lake and Lake Pactola. Both are absolutely breathtaking! You can rent a pontoon at Pactola, and the hiking, shore fishing and swimming at Sylvan is amazing. For a few more eclectic food options, you can go into Rapid City - bit of a drive, and still not the most varied, but definitely some fun options there. Picnicking in the Hills is by far the best! Oh, and when its open ride the 1880 train from Key Stone to Hill City . If you like art, jewelry, etc,, Hill City shouldnt be missed. 😊

[@Dragon-Slay3r]

Thanks guys that's nice

[@ardyrides834]

I'm glad you warn vacationers when not to visit Sturgis and the Black Hills area. Autos simply are in the way and cause traffic problems. Automobiles and their drivers learn the hard way, when not to visit Sturgis and the whole Black Hills area.

[@brendapayne6603]

I visited Mt Rushmore and Deadwood in 2000. The faces looked smaller in person than I thought they would, but it was still great to see them.

[@macconmara7252]

I agree! I was just there in September and I was amazed at how small Mt. Rushmore really is but definitely worth the trip! There entire area is magnificent!

[@movingforwardLDTH]

Yes! I was expecting them to be much larger than they are! (That’s not a criticism ... I wonder what tv program made so many of us think they were larger?) I visited Crazy Horse after Mt. Rushmore. His head alone seems to be larger than all of Mt. Rushmore. Both are impressive in their own ways. Well, Crazy Horse touched my heart more, as he was someone who tried to defend his people & their way of life against the invading white forces. When will we ever learn?

[@backcountry164]

Technically the saloon where Wild Bill was shot burned down in 1878 along with the rest of downtown. You can hike into Mt Rushmore from right down the road at the Horsethief Lake recreation area. And the Crazyhorse monument does a Volksmarch twice a year that let's you hike right up to the top

[@jacobkoch1931]

I work at Custer State Park in the summers and live at a campsite out there. My biggest don’t is don’t stop to look at every animal. I get stopping to look at buffalo and mountain goats cuz I still do that, but with the crazy terrain, the deer and turkeys are going to be in the same general area most of the day. If you see deer coming in, you’ll probably see them leaving.

[@DM-wy5hy]

We have visited the Black Hills several times. Each time we found more to see. It is an amazing experience. Going after Labor Day has its advantages. No crowds and the room rates are considerably lower than summer. Looking forward to going back soon.

[@misanthropicmusings4596]

Don't skip out on Rapid City -- nice little city with some nice eating places. Also has statues of every president at various street intersections downtown. Badlands is awesome -- the scenery seems to change every few minutes. Skip Wall Drug.

[@reesy6176]

But the Food Network voted the donuts at Wall Drug to be among the 10 best in the US. So stop at Wall Drug because, well DONUTS. LOL

[@misanthropicmusings4596]

@@reesy6176 I didn't think of that cause I don't eat donuts. Diabetes. : - (

[@halfassranch8363]

I live in custer and honestly rapid has become a shithole. Meth has devastated the blackhills.

[@jenniferk782]

@@reesy6176 I've been to Wall Drug, and maybe the donuts were a week old or something, but they weren't good. Local places in Rapid City are way much better and have much better selection

[@mikekinsey216]

Rapid city is behind the times, The power goes out outta nowhere There's nothing to do, deadwood is alright, but it's boring as hell, they don't have but 1 grocery store unless you like shopping for food at target Or wallyworld, outdated tourist traps, windy as hell, wall drug is cool, you find yourself lookin around saying to your self ,I'm %=÷#$^& bored, overpriced homes , it's lonely out there, not a dam thing To do , you would think they'd have 1 pro team out there hell no, you have The rapid city rush, semi pro hockey Woop dee dooo,

[@GoingYooper]

Bikers make it better and is a great time to come and drive by. Dont stay in town but stop in and enjoy it.

[@scotty1004]

It's always been a dream of mine to travel America and see all the different attractions and cultures and stuff

[@ProfessorWolters]

it's a fun place

[@lewjames6688]

@@susieasado6675 Yes, the distances especially for a European, are LooooooOOOOOoooong!

[@brendapayne6603]

I have lived in Southern California for 48 years and I do recommend it for tourists. It is big and complicated, but worth it. Just remember Socal is essentially several regions and it pays to organize your trips by region. It saves time and gas.

[@lewjames6688]

@@brendapayne6603 Yes, but if you want to see the REAL California, you have to go to San Francisco. Sincerely, a Giants fan. ;)

[@nooneherebutuschickens5201]

@@lewjames6688 No, if you want to see the Real California, avoid both LA and SF. Drive the coast from Ventura to Monterey, the head inland. There are several sites you should see from there - Yosemite, the gold rush towns east of Sacramento, Napa Valley, Muir Woods, and the geyser in Calistoga. Then head up to Lake Tahoe, then down the eastern highway 395. Stop at Mono Lake, Bodie ghost town, stay a couple of days in the Mammoth Lakes area. Heasing further south, see Manzanar and Mt. Whitney, take a side trip to Death Valley, then head back to LA or go further south to the sand dunes befor taking I-8 through the mountains to San Diego.

[@stevebeals819]

The state is pretty obsessed about Mt Rushmore. It's not like we're going to put the Corn Palace on our license plates. I am a local. Lived in the northern hills most of my life. I've been to a lot of places but always glad to come home. The Mickelson Trail is good. Mount Coolidge fire tower is one of my favorite places to go up in Custer State Park. If the road is open. Great view of everything.

[@ssQ2U]

Corn Palace yay!

[@noahdonohoe520]

I really recommend cosmos. It’s an old shack the was built in a spot where the gravity is really weird. Fun experience for the kids and parents.

[@Squiddystitties]

The house is tilted everything in the house is level, I used to work there it’s not special

[@noahdonohoe520]

@@Squiddystitties when

[@Squiddystitties]

@@noahdonohoe520 year ago

[@cowboykelly6590]

I love that place. Mom & DaD took us on vacation in 1975 . All over there. But , my lil brother and I and my lil nephew had a blast at that place !! Loved Wind cave alot too . Ahhh.. to be a child.. on vacation.

[@cowboykelly6590]

@@Squiddystitties : WHAT ?? REALLY? I thought it was earth's magnetic pull or somthing.. lol..🤣🤪. Awe.... but, it's still fun. 🤠🖖

[@bmetoxen]

Regular, routine driver/visitor to this area twice per year. Everything you said was right on the mark, nice work. Bob & Susan

[@SargonofQueens]

I drove across the country from NYC to Washington state last month and just flew back. I visited and camped in several national parks along interstate 90, so I got to know the parks well. But the places I want to come back and visit more are in South Dakota. I drove the needles highway in Custer state park, visited Deadwood, Adam’s museum, the digital information desk was amazing. But I missed wind cave and jewel cave. So I definitely will come back to South Dakota. It’s such an exciting state.

[@denalinde]

Something fun to do if you’re visiting in the summer is to check out a cave or two. There are several in the area & it’s nice & cool underground when it’s 90 degrees outside. 😉 Check out a guide to decide which to go to. A few are similar but there’s a variety the further out you go. 💜

[@christinasohl]

thank you for this video! every 5 years I go to the Black Hills with my parents for their anniversary, and I love helping plan for places to go!

[@carolynlazzell5316]

My daughter and I visited Keystone a few years ago. It was awesome, and I'd love to go again.

[@cerhart7172]

There are so many places throughout the Hills that you could spend years wandering around and taking in the sights. The Needles Highway is a Must See. If you have an open-top vehicle, it is even better. It is also a landscape artist's paradise for plein aire painting, sketching, and photography. My favorite time is from late April to June when the snow is melting and everything starts blooming and before it starts getting too warm and dry.

[@mskrislewis]

I am a western South Dakota girl. Don't forget to drive Iron Mountain Road, spend some time at Rushmore Mountain Coasters ( or Alpine Slides. We like the Coaster better, but like Alpine's zip lines better),. When in Spearfish canyon, hike down to Spearfish Falls or drive up to Dances with Wolves film site.

[@admranger]

Crazy Horse is awesome. I've been right up to the face and the craftsmanship is excellent. Very dedicated people building that monument.

[@PLBizon]

Twice a year you can hike to the arm of the Crazy Horse during the Volksmarch. The hike is not that difficult, and the views from the top of mountain are spectacular.

[@TheBandit7613]

Too bad they're never going to finish crazy horse. It's too much of a cash cow for the family. What a scam

[@wevdog]

Also, bike week. I was in the hills once for it, never again. "Traffic jams" is the key word here. I get that during the weekly commute. Go riding out before or after.....unless you like huge crowds and sitting with your feet down on the road waiting.

[@Rudevette]

We’ve been going to the black hills four or five times a year for over 25 years. The one thing I’ll say is if you plan on staying in Deadwood eat in Sturgis or Spearfish before you go there. Unicorns are easier to find than food in Deadwood. There are some food places but it’s a gamble if they are open and if you catch one open the waiting lines will be forever long. I’m surprised that the businesses in Deadwood haven’t figured it out after all these years. We like The Knuckle in Sturgis, Luckys in Spearfish, or Cheyenne Crossing at the end of Spearfish Canyon.

[@rhondakaman4310]

Staying in Deadwood next two days …love this place, don’t miss it!

[@jessicameidl372]

Just got back from the Black Hills. Loved it! We drove our Ram pick up all over

[@tocsin1977]

What a great video! Thanks so much for the information. My wife and I are riding over there from Idaho in July (outside of the rally.) First time in SD, and looking forward to it!

[@abbyjorolston7811]

Don't be afraid to ask locals!! My husband and I went to SoDak in March, and found Deadwood had a St Patricks day parade and bar crawl! Definitely not for children, but so much fun! Also, Rockerville there is a bar named Gaslight has a great bar and food! Alpine Hill in Hill City is amaaazing!! I would suggest going in the afternoon for their supper specials :)

[@Dragon-Slay3r]

🙀

[@susanberger8550]

I went there last summer and loved the area. Mount Rushmore was great and I did get that ice cream! I drove twice through Custer state park! I went to devils tower in Wyoming also, worth the trip! It was absolutely one of the best areas I have traveled to.

[@warrenuecker683]

Yeah, do not miss Custer State Park and the wildlife loop there!

[@Kidderrgaming]

Great video on the main points of the Black Hills. I would say another don't is don't forget to go through Needles Highway. Beautiful views with hiking as well.

[@danneyboy1000]

I absolutely love riding there. We left southeast Texas and rode 3 days up there than spent 4 days riding there. It was a bit chilly at night but we had our cold weather gear.

[@mystikka1gaming740]

Thanks for the tips... I will be moving to South Dakota from Oregon not to long from now...

[@megang9563]

For some one who has never been further west than the Mississippi, this video seems very helpful. Hoping to visit the Blackhills in 2022

[@mrslimee2674]

My wife and I stop By Chubby Chipmunk in Deadwood for Truffles and we go to the Purple Pie Place in Custer every year. Lots of other great places to stop. So much to doin the area. Even Hot Springs SD has the mammoth dig.

[@kathleenweigel5936]

I’m doing an internship in the black hills for the winter! It’s been beautiful so far! Coming from south Texas it still amazes me that I get to be here for a while! Also Custer has an amazing burger place called “Black Hill Burger and Bun”!!! 10/10 would recommend

[@reesy6176]

Sanford's in Spearfish.

[@zarnoffa]

@@reesy6176 That’s closed now, unfortunately. Best option is Killian’s right next door.

[@TaylorStaab95]

its gonna be cold and invest in some winter stuff for your car too!

[@pandorae7362]

I live in S Texas too...can't wait to drive there.

[@dhblan8591]

I am amazed that Badlands was mentioned as an afterthought although it is probably technically not in the ‘Black Hills’. Shocking that you did not mention Custer State Park and driving the Needles Highway. Both are must-see and do in that area. And although it is a pure tourist trap, you have to stop at Wall Drug. How can you not after seeing all those road signs?;-) Thank you for the video.

[@neildewitt2869]

If your at Wall you might as well stop at the nuke missile silo and check it out!

[@jj-eo7bj]

I like wall drug

[@dhblan8591]

@@jj-eo7bj Nothing wrong with a good ‘tourist trap’ and I enjoyed my stop at Wall Drug. As I said, how can people NOT stop there?

[@Bessy21]

I was in all these places back in July. Miss it so much😞

[@toejam503]

Crazy Horse Monument is awesome. The US Air Force uses the skies over the monument as a turn around and it's quite a show in itself.

[@NBZW]

Haven’t been there in 15 years, but The filet and lettuce wedge at the Alpine Inn at Hill city was phenomenal as was the service. Still wear a hand tooled belt I purchased from Trevino’s, looks as good as the day I bought it. At the time numerous minerals and stones for the rock hounds were available from a number of locations. Was staying in Custer at the time. Would recommend this area highly for those who wish to visit. What amazed me was the friendly local people. Wife and I purchased gold wedding rings in Rapid City, still on our fingers. Would love to return but age has its way. Forgot about this, the clerk where we purchased our rings invited us to lunch with her, she treated us like family, wonderful experience.

[@neildewitt2869]

Your never to old! Just do it!

[@NBZW]

@@neildewitt2869 Driving skills diminish with age as well as stamina but I thank you for the encouragement. God bless.

[@NBZW]

@@neildewitt2869 : Another pitfall Of growing old is, after 85 when you feel the urge too pass gas take care there may be lumps.

[@neildewitt2869]

@@NBZW 😅🤣😂 true but really not funny! It's life and we will all go through it if we live that long.

[@NBZW]

@@neildewitt2869 My friend, this is a he voice of experience, 88 good years has its down side, it’s kinda like living in reverse, going back in the direction from which we came. No complaints.

[@PaulMikolasuk-ue6gq]

You've covered it as well as it can be covered well done

[@lindadickson783]

I love the black hills and have been there several times. I love Custer wildlife loop, Mt. Rushmore, walking through the shops of Keystone, etc. etc. etc. I have ridden on the train out of Keystone and have hiked Harny peak. I don’t like hikes but hiked all the way to the top.

[@glenndavis4452]

SD definitely on the list.

[@randomstuffwithjoe]

This was a fun video. My wife and I are heading out for bike week for my first time. Looking forward to all of the riding, sites, scenery, etc. Thx for the tips.

[@erniew5805]

if you plan to go to Deadwood during any event . bring a parking spot with. as there is very limited parking in the canyon

[@jojanew]

Well, my "bike" is two wheels, no motor, quite silent. And my favorite ride us up Spearfish Canyon, and finding the Devils Swimming Hole. Also the pigtail road makes for a truly unique ride, and of course, I avoid the week of motorcycles. To each his own.

[@BrakerLane]

Excellent! I give an A+ for this video. Everything you said was spot on!

[@DeeAnnieFL]

Watching your videos on my lunch break has been my longtime tradition - they help me get through my day! ♥️

[@woltersworld]

Glad I can help. :)

[@marissasurrounded]

I love that I was born and raised and still living here. For hikers there’s silver city, about three miles back is a ghost town. Though I heard they might mine back there. So I’d hurry and visit that secret beautiful spot.

[@kchilz32]

My brother is moving there soon and I’m planning on following at some point

[@marissasurrounded]

@@kchilz32 it’s a beautiful place to live! lots of fun stuff to do in the hills and in the surrounding towns!🤙😊

[@billk8579]

I would add visiting Hot Springs which is on the southern end of the Black Hills. The mammoth digs are a must see there. A great facility as you watch paleontologists unearth 70 or 80 mammoths in one location. An interesting note every mammoth uncovered so far has been a male. Also, on the way to Devil’s Tower look for the Buffalo Jump in Wyoming. Another interesting location where native Americans would drive buffalo off the cliff and then collect their reward. The Black Hills has been my favorite vacation for many years.

[@gregwarner3753]

Take the train out of Keystone. Great ride through the woods.

[@christinacupil7801]

Is that the 1880 train? Can't really remember?! Just remember my school went on an older train as a field trip, it was amazing!

[@cowboykelly6590]

I Love Trains & Train yards , and the old depot stations . When I head up there someday I'll just do that, thank you Sir.

[@johnpowell9202]

Wife and I did that, fantastic

[@loribreitbarth2215]

Train runs between Keystone and Hill City. Can board from either town

[@gregwarner3753]

There is a road that follows the train tracks. Provides great opportunity for great photography.

[@davidrocha9493]

I'll be going to S. Dakota in September and I'm really looking forward to it! Great video!

[@rnb8328]

My grandparents took me when I was a kid to deadwood, during the day though. They were doing one of those mock shootouts in the street while we were eating at a restaurant

[@esthershankula6760]

Visiting a friend in Rapid City the end of June 2021. So excited! Mostly plan on hiking but looking forward to the full adventure!

[@gnomeones]

Definitely visit Bear Country, Reptile Gardens, M Hill, basically everywhere downtown, Rushmore Mountain, Wind Cave, and Spearfish Canyon!!!

[@Rilanwarejcka2545]

Don't forget Custer state park, and Needle's highway. They are worth checking out. Too bad you weren't there during the summer, in Deadwood they have actors that put on scenes from the old wild west. My kids loved it!! The trial of Jack McCall.

[@sandraujeneza6853]

Glad i came accross your video because we are planning to go in May. Thank you so much for this

[@marksauck3399]

They’ve changed the viewing area in front of Mount Rushmore so many times over the decades. If your into old movies with that nostalgia in mind, check out the great Alfred Hitchcock 1950s movie, North by Northwest. You will see quite a difference in the parking as well as the viewing area as well as an interesting climb by Cary Grant and Eva Marie Saint around the presidents faces. 😳 it’s fun to watch.

[@williambalyx1053]

Coming from BC Canada next June, doing a southwest USA tour, on the way home plan on coming through the black hills.

[@joselase6894]

Don't forget to tell them about the backside of Mt. Rushmore (driving around to see them from a different angle on the bottom). Don't miss the helicopter flight between Hill City and Custer. It flies right up to Crazy Horse (or extended flights) and across my families property.

[@ssQ2U]

I did the backside of Mt Rushmore! and helicopter over the Badlands - both are awesome

[@adamstone4366]

I have lived in Rapid for about 12 years total and this video cracks me up 😂

[@Skelem0]

If you are ever back in Montana, sapphire panning in Philipsburg is a must! Cute little town to spend the day.

[@crystalbluewire3339]

Montana Sapphires are the BEST.

[@user-ru9gf7ky2y]

You forgot Harney Peak aka: Black Elk Peak. That is an absolute must in the Black Hills. The highest point east of the Rockies until you get to France. Unbelievable view from the top. On a clear day you can see 5 states. Also, Kids can go into casinos in Deadwood. I grew up in that area. There is alot to do for kids in Deadwood and Lead. Crazyhorse is a 300 year project. It is a very very amazing place. Wind Cave and Jewell caves in the south part of the Black Hills is a must. Custer State Park. That's just the tip of many things you missed.

[@MariaMendez-rg3co]

I accidentally booked a trip with 3 teens during Sturgis this year. I'm a bit nervous but hoping to make the best of it. Our accommodations are all booked. Planning an overnight in Devil's Tower, WY too.

[@im_agine852]

Be on the lookout for ticks at Devil's Tower in the summer.

[@jessicashackle595]

I'll be there during Sturgis as well (not a biker). I hope you have fun and be safe!!

[@MariaMendez-rg3co]

@@im_agine852 Thanks for the tip!

[@MariaMendez-rg3co]

@@jessicashackle595 Thanks you too!

[@MariaMendez-rg3co]

Update: my trip was wonderful! We barely noticed any bikers. We were up and out early every morning. One highlight was sleeping in a tipi within eyesight of Devil's Tower and hiking around it at night!

[@loganolson8764]

I live here and I recommend going to Custer state park if you want to see wildlife

[@brittneyrae1956]

If u have kids and stay in deadwood stay at the lodge has a pool and restaurants but adults can still go down and gamble and drink..they also do the Volksmarch weekend where u can hike up on to the arm of crazy horse

[@mikekisch5563]

I loved and used the tips from your Florida Keyes Video, Ill use this for our Dakota trip! thanks so much

[@deanurbanek6577]

Make sure sure to drive the needles, spearfish canyon, roughlock falls, ALL the caves, indian tacos at cheyanne crossing, roosevelt tower, silverado crab buffet in deadwood, hill city train to keystone and back, mount rushmore, iron mountain road, custer wildlife loop, rochford lol, devils tower, hells canyon, custer peak, spearfish hatchery, full throttle saloon, all the winerys, sxs riding in the mountians.

[@cindygreen9487]

Sir, I really appreciate you and everything you said in this video. We just attended our 1st Sturgis event and I appreciate the fact that you did not “bad mouth” motorcyclists as we have been asked many times if we were afraid to go to a “biker rally” (bad guys) go there? Happily just the opposite, we have reservations for next year just because of the beauty we saw during our (not nearly enough) time while there! Camping included and we can’t hardly wait so we decided to arrive earlier than before and will be RVing it for, who knows how long? LOL I also appreciate you pointing out that there are some places you might want to avoid taken your children to. Anyway, 👍👍👍AWESOME VIDEO

[@MrThebirddog]

Don't miss the Mammoth Dig! It is awesome. Kids love it!

[@teresah7886]

I love living in Deadwood.

[@codymanthey5694]

Fun fact: crazy horse memorial is carved on thunder head mountain. And mount Rushmore is carved on a part of the black elk mountains