If you’re planning a weekend getaway from Denver, Fort Collins, or anywhere along the Colorado Front Range, Custer, South Dakota, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Just a scenic 5-6 hour drive away, the Black Hills region is packed with natural wonders, historic landmarks, and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re looking to explore underground caves, hike through beautiful state parks, or stand in awe before iconic monuments, this guide will help you make the most of your weekend trip.
Day 1: Wind Cave National Park
Kick off your weekend by exploring the unique geological wonders of Wind Cave and then head above ground to immerse yourself in the wildlife and scenic beauty of Custer State Park. This day is all about experiencing the natural diversity of the Black Hills, both below and above the surface.
Drive Time: 5-6 hours from Denver/Fort Collins to Custer
Wind Cave National Park
One of the longest caves in the world, Wind Cave is famous for its rare boxwork formations, which look like honeycomb patterns. It’s also one of the oldest national parks, established in 1903. Guided tours take you through narrow passages and reveal the incredible natural beauty hidden underground.
What to Do:
- Take a Guided Tour
- Choose from different tours based on your interest and comfort level. Whether you’re new to spelunking or a cave enthusiast, there’s a tour for you.
- Tours typically last 1-2 hours.
- Explore Above Ground
- Wind Cave isn’t just about the cave; the park is home to bison, elk, and prairie dogs. Consider a short hike on one of the park’s trails to see more wildlife.
Day 2: Custer State Park
Spanning over 71,000 acres, Custer State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It is one of the most impressive State Parks I have been to and reminded me of Yellowstone (minus the geysers and hot springs).
From scenic drives to see Bison to serene lakes, this park showcases the best of the Black Hills’ natural beauty. I recommend dedicated most of your day here, as there is so much to do and see.
What to Do:
- Drive the Wildlife Loop Road
- This 18-mile road winds through open grasslands and pine-covered hills, offering the best chances to see bison, pronghorns, and even wild burros.
- Picnic at Sylvan Lake
- Known as the “Crown Jewel” of Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake is a picturesque spot for a relaxing lunch, paddleboarding, or kayaking.
- Go for a Hike
- Try the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail for an easy, scenic 1 mile walk or the more challenging Black Elk Peak Trail for panoramic views of the Black Hills.
End the day walking the town of Custer and eating at one of the local spots for dinner.
Day 3: Iconic Landmarks
Your last day is all about visiting some of America’s most iconic monuments before driving back to Denver. Start with the famous faces of Mount Rushmore, then head to the inspiring Crazy Horse Memorial. I didn’t feel that I needed more than about an hour or so at each place, making it a great morning stop before the drive back to Colorado.
Drive Time:
- Custer to Mount Rushmore: ~30 minutes
- Mount Rushmore to Crazy Horse: ~20 minutes
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Mount Rushmore is a symbol of American history, featuring the carved faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. It’s an iconic sight that draws visitors from around the world.
What to Do:
- Walk the Presidential Trail
- This short, easy trail takes you closer to the monument and provides unique angles for photos.
- Explore the Visitor Center
- Learn about the history, construction, and significance of Mount Rushmore through interactive exhibits.
Crazy Horse Memorial
The Crazy Horse Memorial is a massive, still-in-progress mountain carving dedicated to the Lakota leader, Crazy Horse. When finished, it will be the largest sculpture in the world, symbolizing the spirit and culture of Native Americans.
What to Do:
- Visit the Welcome Center
- Discover the history behind the monument and the efforts to honor Native American heritage.
- Watch the Documentary Film
- Learn about the construction and the story of sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski, who started the project in 1948.
Jewel Cave National Monument (Optional)
Known for its dazzling calcite crystal formations, Jewel Cave is the third-longest cave in the world. If you’re up for more underground exploration, this is a great stop on your way back to Colorado.
What to Do:
- Join a Cave Tour
- Different tours offer various levels of difficulty, from easy walks to more strenuous adventures.
- Explore Above Ground
- Jewel Cave has scenic trails above ground, too, perfect for stretching your legs before the drive home.
Bonus Day (Optional): The Badlands Adventure
If you have an extra day for a long weekend trip, consider venturing out to Badlands National Park. Located about an hour and a half east of Custer, the park’s rugged landscapes of jagged peaks, vast canyons, and layered rock formations provide an unforgettable experience. It’s an excellent choice for a scenic drive, hiking, or simply taking in the otherworldly scenery.
Drive Time:
- Custer to Badlands National Park: ~1.5 hours
Badlands National Park
With its striking rock formations, deep canyons, and colorful layers, Badlands National Park is a geological wonder. The park is also home to bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
What to Do:
- Drive the Badlands Loop Road
- A 39-mile scenic route with plenty of overlooks to stop and admire the view.
- Short Hikes
- Trails like the Notch Trail or Door Trail offer an up-close experience of the park’s unique landscape.
- Stargazing
- If you’re staying overnight, the dark skies make for some of the best stargazing in the country.
Where to Stay: Accommodations
Whether you’re looking to camp under the stars or enjoy the comfort of a cozy lodge, Custer has a range of options to suit your needs:
- Custer State Park Campgrounds: There are a number of campgrounds in Custer State Park that for tents or RVs. You can reserve your campground here.
- Custer State Park Lodges: Custer State Park also has lodges and cabins if you are looking for more comfort. The State Game Lodge is a historic lodge with past visitors including President Coolidge and President Eisenhower. You can see lodge availability here.
- Wind Caves National Park: On your first night, consider a stay at Wind Caves campgrounds.
- Camper Vans: Do your weekend roadtrip in style. Escape Campervans has camper vans available for rent that can be picked up/dropped off in Denver. This is a great option if you plan to camp in multiple locations – a night at Wind Caves, a night at Custer State Park, and a night at Badlands would be a great weekend trip from Denver! Book a van here.
- Town of Custer: Custer has a variety of other accommodation as well, from affordable motels to quaint bed and breakfasts or camp resorts and cabins.
Final Thoughts
A weekend trip to Custer, South Dakota, offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. From spelunking in the depths of Wind Cave to marveling at Mount Rushmore, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories. And if you have an extra day, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the unique landscapes of the Badlands or add a detour to Jewel Cave.
So, pack your bags, set your GPS, and embark on a weekend trip from the Colorado Front Range to the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota!
Leave a Reply