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Badlands, Black Hills and Bravehearts
Black Hills Vacation Package: 3- Full Day Tour All-Inclusive
Badlands, Black Hills, and Bravehearts Overview
The Badlands and Black Hills are are sacred land with a long history. Let us reveal what makes this part of the country so special by taking you to experience the sights, sounds and activities offered throughout the region. It’s important to know there’s way more than Mount Rushmore. The most common and unfortunate decision we see is visitors underestimating the beauty of the Black Hills and Badlands, and cutting their time short. There are three areas that are a must-do when planning your Black Hills Vacation.
Sit back, relax and let us handle all the work for you. We know where to go, what to see, and how to get there. The Black Hills and Badlands is a 3-day experience that takes you from Mount Rushmore to Devils Tower and the beautiful Badlands National Park. With the highest ratings and reviews, you can be assured that your choice of My XO Adventures is a winner!
- Duration: 3 Full Day Tours
Key Highlights
- Black Hills National Forest
- Badlands National Park
- Mount Rushmore
- Iron Mountain Road
- Custer State Park & The Wildlife Loop Road
- Coolidge Lookout Tower
- Crazy Horse Memorial
- Needles Highway
- Needles Eye Tunnel
- Sylvan Lake
- Cathedral Spires
- Devils Tower and Spearfish Canyon
Tour Inclusions
- Bottled Water
- All Admissions and Entry Fees
- Fully Customizable
- Expert Guide of the Badlands and Black Hills
- Leisurely Pace, No Rushing
- Pick up & Drop off at your accommodations
- Photos Taken By The Guide
- Private Tour Exclusive to Your Group
Day 1: Black Hills Parks, Monuments and Mount Rushmore
Explore
Mount Rushmore
As you stand in awe before the faces of past presidents carved into the granite cliffs of Mount Rushmore, you’ll feel a sense of patriotism and reverence wash over you while learning the true meaning behind this colossus. Witnessing this engineering marble up close is an experience that transcends words, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.
Iron Mountain Road and the Pigtail Bridges
As you ascend Iron Mountain Road, the stunning view of hills and forests full of animals creates an unforgettable sight. Unforeseen attractions like the Pigtail Bridges are at every turn. Intended to make the ride fun, these bridges decrease our speed and allow you to take in the immense granite spires, Aspens, and Ponderosas.
The Tunnels of Iron Mountain Road
Iron Mountain Road takes you through three tunnels cut into the ancient Black Hills granite. They are narrow enough for us to fit and are designed to frame Mt Rushmore, just don’t stick your hand out the window!
We’ll take pictures, and if it’s not crowded, you can go inside to experience being inside a mountain. The tunnels are named after significant contributors to the road and area: Doane Robinson, CC Gideon, and Scoval Johnson.
At Norbeck Overlook, you’ll see Black Elk Peak, the Six Grandfathers, the Cathedral Spires, and a vast forest of Ponderosa Pines! On the ground, you’ll notice red rocks thrust up from the earth, which is why they call this place Iron Mountain. It’s the abundance of iron-rich schist. This rock is oxidized, has the color of rust, and looks like petrified wood.
Custer State Park and the Wildlife Loop Road
We now reach Custer State Park. Your first stop at the visitor center is an excellent introduction to Wildlife Loop Road, a well-known spot in SD. On the drive, Wildlife Loop Road is the best chance to view various birds, bison, elk, deer, prairie dogs, and pronghorn. Along with wildlife, the geology is also prominent, with red sandstone and yellow limestone seen in the Black Hills. Be prepared for bison approaching our vehicle – and stay inside!
Sylvan Lake and the Needles Highway
Depending on the weather, we’ll picnic, visit a restaurant, then journey to Sylvan Lake, South Dakota, renowned for its beauty in the Black Hills. We’ll ascend the Needles Highway and Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, then explore the lake and a side trail to the store. It’s a popular wedding spot, so we’ll take all the photos you want before continuing. As we journey, we approach the Needles Eye Tunnel, an often missed Needles Eye. The Needles Eye is an ancient formation that can only be observed from a few locations. In the small parking area, we’ll get out of the vehicle and look to the sky to witness the Needles Eye’s glory with the Black Hills National Forest as a background.
As we journey, we approach the Needles Eye Tunnel, an often missed Needles Eye. The Needles Eye is an ancient formation that can only be observed from a few locations. In the small parking area, we’ll get out of the vehicle and look to the sky to witness the Needles Eye’s glory with the Black Hills National Forest as a background.
The Cathedral Spires
The Cathedral Spires, in the mountains of South Dakota, are a remarkable rock formation. Doane Robinson envisioned carving faces into them, but Gutzon Borglum found the rock unsuitable. Locals were outraged when they heard about plans to carve the spires. Thankfully, the Spires remain intact, and we can visit them today to take pictures of this special antiquity. What’s not to love about Custer State Park besides the name?
Coolidge Lookout Tower
During their visit, you’ll also enjoy learning about the history of Coolidge Lookout Tower. While exploring its observation deck, you’ll learn about how it was used by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s to detect forest fires and monitor weather conditions.
Coolidge Lookout Tower is one of the most remarkable attractions in Custer State Park, offering breathtaking views and a unique glimpse into its past. Whether you’re looking for an awe-inspiring viewpoint or want to learn about its history, Coolidge Lookout Tower will surely provide a memorable experience that will last a lifetime. For those seeking an unforgettable adventure, ensure you don’t miss out on this iconic landmark!
Palmer Gulch
If you’re looking for a truly unique and breathtaking experience, let us take you on a drive down Palmer Gulch in beautiful Custer State Park. This winding dirt road is named after the original European Settlers of the area, Edgar and Lula Palmer. It is now a popular destination for visitors who want an up-close view of Black Elk Peak, the highest peak in South Dakota, and to take in all the beauty that Mother Nature offers.
On your journey through Palmer Gulch, you’ll be surrounded by stunning Aspen trees on either side of the path. These majestic trees are illuminated with gorgeous golden leaves during autumn, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities like camping or hiking. Keep your eyes peeled as you traverse this route; you may even spot some of the park’s wildlife, including wild turkeys and deer.
With its winding dirt road lined with Aspen trees and views of Black Elk Peak that will take your breath away, it’s a great spot to spend time outdoors with friends and family.
Crazy Horse Memorial
Lastly, we head to Crazy Horse. Once complete, it will be the world’s largest sculpture. Carved by Korczak Ziolkowski at Chief Standing Bear’s request, it’s an amazing sight. At the parking lot peak, we’ll share what we know about Crazy Horse. Inside the museum, you’ll learn about his family and foundation. Artifacts, as well as a plaster mini-replica, are displayed.
By the time we’re finished and have you safely back home, we hope you’ve had an excellent experience and recommend the Badlands, Black Hills and Bravehearts Tour. It’s our pleasure to share our knowledge and hopefully make new friends in the process!
Day 2: Spearfish Canyon, Devils Tower and Deadwood
Spearfish Canyon
Rugged Cliffs and Rushing Falls Ignite the Wild in You
Spearfish Canyon isn’t just a scenic drive—it’s a living masterpiece carved by time, water, and untamed beauty. Towering limestone cliffs rise from the forest floor, framing a world of cascading waterfalls, hidden hiking trails, and wildlife that moves like shadows through the pines. The canyon’s winding roads lead to jaw-dropping overlooks, where golden-hued aspens in the fall and ice-laced waterfalls in winter turn the landscape into something out of a dream. Whether you’re chasing adventure, photography, or just a moment of pure, uninterrupted nature, Spearfish Canyon delivers an experience that sticks with you long after you leave.
Historic Deadwood
Journey into the heart of history with a visit to Deadwood, a legendary town nestled in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Once the epicenter of the Black Hills Gold Rush, Deadwood’s storied past is filled with tales of fortune, intrigue, and the infamous characters who walked its streets, including Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, and Poker Alice.
As you stroll through the town’s preserved historic streets, the spirit of the Wild West springs to life. Explore iconic landmarks, visit old-time saloons like the legendary Saloon No. 10, and immerse yourself in a world where legends were born and history was written. For those feeling lucky, the town’s vibrant casinos offer a modern twist on its gold-rush roots.
Deadwood isn’t just a town—it’s an experience. From its reenactments of famous shootouts to its rich mining history, every corner tells a story waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or simply curious, Deadwood delivers an unforgettable mix of adventure and nostalgia.
Let My XO Adventures guide you through this extraordinary destination, blending fascinating tales with personalized touches to make your visit to Deadwood as legendary as the town itself.
Day 2: Devils Tower, A Geological and Cultural Icon
Our journey takes us to the awe-inspiring Devils Tower, one of the most striking landmarks in the Northern Black Hills region. Known as Mato Tipila or “Great Grey Horn” in Native American traditions, this towering monolith stands 867 feet above the plains, commanding attention with its otherworldly presence. Fun fact: it was even featured in the sci-fi classic Close Encounters of the Third Kind!
Formed millions of years ago from volcanic activity, Devils Tower National Monument is a geological wonder that captures the imagination of all who visit. Its iconic striated columns tell a story of ancient earth processes, while its cultural significance runs deep in Native American folklore. According to legend, the distinctive grooves along its sides were created by a giant bear clawing its way to the sky.
Designated as the United States’ first national monument in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt, Devils Tower isn’t just a sight to behold—it’s a testament to the timeless connection between nature, history, and humanity.
Take a leisurely 1.6-mile walk around the base of the monument, where you’ll encounter stunning views, diverse wildlife, and interpretive signs that delve deeper into the tower’s history and geology.
Day 3: Golden Hour and Sunset at Badlands National Park
What’s the most unforgettable way to see the Badlands?” A private sunset tour during the Golden Hour is the best way to visit the Badlands. As the sun sets, the rugged landscape transforms with breathtaking colors, shifting from golden hues to deep blues. This exclusive experience isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about witnessing nature’s most magical moments in the best locations, guided by experts who know where to find the most stunning views. Want to know more? Keep going for full details on the Badlands Golden Hour Tour.
Your tour starts with a private pickup directly from your hotel. Once on board, the adventure begins.
Driving out to the Badlands, you’ll learn about the geological history and diversity of the prairie lands along the way. Wall Drug is just ahead, and you’ll be stopping here just before we enter Badlands National Park.
Your Badlands Golden Hour Tour begins about 90 minutes before sunset—the perfect time to spot bison, antelope, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep as they emerge in the golden light.
Once we enter the Badlands from our preferred location, you’ll see what makes this tour so special. The Badlands rise up from the ground and appear as though you’re viewing a painting. It doesn’t seem real, but it is. The experience of seeing the Badlands can’t be fully captured on camera, so we stop to take it all in. Using our binoculars we can spot wildlife and enjoy the silence.
Many factors are involved in this special tour of the Badlands.
- Timing
- Angle
- Approach
- Expertise
We’ve worked hard to make this experience come together like a well-oiled machine, so you don’t have to.
Many of our guests are taken back at what they see. They can’t wait to get out of the car to experience the vast open landscape.
Each corner we turn offers up an entirely new view and more opportunities to see wildlife. It’s as if it never ends. We keep pace with the sun as we travel down the road, not missing an opportunity for fantastic photos.
You’re already experiencing the Badlands in a way most visitors never get to enjoy. Fewer people, less cars, more wildlife and endless vistas.
Don't just take our word for it.
See what our clients have to say.
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