Black Hills 4-Day Itinerary: Mount Rushmore, Badlands, and Custer State Park
By Jeff Lowe • November 15, 2025
The Black Hills of South Dakota may not be the first place everyone thinks of when planning a family getaway, but for our family, it’s been one of those destinations we keep coming back to.
Over the years, we’ve visited the Black Hills several times, and somehow it never feels repetitive. Each trip brings a slightly different experience—new trails, new wildlife sightings, and new memories layered on top of old favorites.
This region packs an impressive amount of variety into a relatively small area. You’ll find iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore, rugged landscapes in Badlands National Park, and wide-open grasslands filled with roaming bison in Custer State Park.
Best of all, the drives between these spots are scenic and manageable, which makes it a great destination for families or anyone who prefers exploring without constantly feeling rushed.
If you’re planning your first visit—or even a return trip—this four-day Black Hills itinerary balances the must-see highlights with the kind of experiences that tend to stick with you long after the drive home.
Day 1: Mount Rushmore and the Surrounding Scenic Drives
Mount Rushmore is usually the first stop for visitors, and honestly, it’s a great way to kick off a Black Hills trip. We’ve been here multiple times as a family, and it never gets old. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, standing there in person still feels impressive.
We always make time to visit the museum and watch the presentations at the visitor center. They add helpful context and make the monument feel more meaningful, especially for kids. If you can, stick around for the evening lighting ceremony. Seeing the monument illuminated after sunset is a completely different experience and one we’ve really enjoyed.
One of our favorite parts of Mount Rushmore is the Presidential Trail. It’s a manageable hike and gives you closer views of the sculpture while still feeling like you’re out in nature. It’s a great way to burn off some energy after traveling and ease into the trip.
After Mount Rushmore, take advantage of the scenic drives nearby. Iron Mountain Road is especially memorable, with its tunnels and winding curves that frame Mount Rushmore in unexpected ways. The drive itself becomes part of the adventure.
For the evening, Keystone and Hill City are both excellent places to stay—and we’ve enjoyed time in both. Keystone puts you right near Mount Rushmore, while Hill City has a slightly quieter feel with charming shops and solid dining options. Either way, it’s easy to end the day with a relaxed dinner and a stroll through town.
Day 2: Badlands National Park and a Stop at Wall Drug
Day 2 usually means an early start, but it’s worth it. Badlands National Park feels completely different from the Black Hills, and that contrast is part of what makes this itinerary work so well.
Our family has visited the Badlands on more than one trip, and we’ve spent time hiking several of the trails. Even the shorter hikes offer big views, layered rock formations, and wide-open landscapes that feel almost otherworldly. Trails like Door, Window, and Notch are great options depending on how adventurous you’re feeling.
One thing we’ve learned is to take your time here. The overlooks are frequent, and it’s easy to stop often just to take it all in. The colors and shadows change throughout the day, so no two visits ever look exactly the same.
On the way back, we always stop at Wall Drug. It’s quirky, crowded, and unapologetically touristy—and that’s exactly why we enjoy it. Whether it’s wandering through the shops, grabbing a snack, or just soaking up the oddball atmosphere, it’s become a tradition for us on Black Hills trips.
By late afternoon, the drive back toward the Black Hills feels calm and familiar, making it a good evening to relax after a full day of exploring.
Day 3: Custer State Park and the Wildlife Loop
Custer State Park is one of those places that surprises people the most, and it’s easily one of our favorite parts of the Black Hills. Driving through the park feels like stepping into a nature documentary.
We’ve spent time driving the Wildlife Loop Road, and every trip seems to bring new sightings. The herds of buffalo are always the highlight, but you’ll also see prairie dogs, pronghorn, and other wildlife along the way. It’s not unusual to slow down—or stop entirely—while animals cross the road.
From there, head toward Sylvan Lake and the Needles Highway. The scenery shifts quickly, with granite spires rising around tight curves and narrow tunnels. Even if you don’t hike, the drive alone is worth it.
If you’re up for a walk, Sylvan Lake offers easy trails with great views, and it’s a nice spot to pause, eat lunch, or just enjoy the surroundings. The balance of open grasslands and rocky formations makes this area feel especially scenic.
Dinner back in Custer or nearby towns is a relaxed way to wrap up the day. After hours of wildlife watching and scenic drives, a simple, hearty meal feels just right.
Day 4: Crazy Horse Memorial, Spearfish Canyon, or Local Towns
The final day is a good opportunity to slow the pace and choose what interests you most. Many visitors start with the Crazy Horse Memorial, which offers insight into Native American history along with an impressive scale that’s hard to grasp until you see it in person.
From there, you can head north toward Spearfish Canyon for a quieter, scenic drive. The waterfalls and forested canyon walls feel peaceful and make for an easygoing final day.
Another option is spending time exploring local towns. Deadwood offers a step back into frontier history, while Spearfish feels more modern and relaxed, with local shops and coffee spots that are fun to wander through.
If your trip loops back through Rapid City, it’s a nice place for a final dinner before heading home. The downtown area is walkable and makes a smooth transition back to everyday life after days spent in nature.
Why the Black Hills Keep Calling Us Back
After several family trips to the Black Hills, it’s become one of those destinations we recommend without hesitation. The mix of history, outdoor adventure, wildlife, and scenic drives makes it appealing for a wide range of travelers—and it’s especially great for families who want variety without long travel days.
Every visit feels familiar but never stale. There’s always another trail to try, another scenic overlook to stop at, or another buffalo sighting just around the bend. And that’s what makes the Black Hills special—it’s a place that invites you back, again and again.