The Road Less Traveled in the Black Hills
Most people follow the pavement. They file into Mount Rushmore, drive the scenic byways, and snap pictures at the same turnouts. But that’s not how we do things at My XO Adventures. We take the backroads.
Not the kind Google Maps sends you down, either. I’m talking about narrow gravel ribbons that wind through ponderosa pine, hug hidden streams, and open into meadows where you might spot elk, bighorn sheep, or wild turkeys. Roads that locals use, and visitors rarely see.
These are the Black Hills backroads — where the journey is the experience, not just a path to the next attraction.
Why Take the Backroads?
1. Avoid the Crowds
Places like Custer State Park and Needles Highway are stunning, but they can feel like a traffic jam in July. Our backroad routes skip the congestion. That means no lines of cars, no rumbling Harleys drowning out the birds, and no elbowing your way to a photo op.
You’ll see more, breathe deeper, and move at your own pace.
2. More Wildlife Encounters
Wildlife doesn’t hang out by the roadside selfies. They stick to the quiet corners — the forest edges, creek beds, and grassy hills that you only find by heading off the beaten path.
Backroads are where we catch that glimpse of a mountain lion darting across a trail. Where white-tailed deer raise their heads from a golden meadow. Where eagles soar above trout-filled streams.
3. Deeper Connection With Nature
The Black Hills are sacred ground — not just beautiful, but alive. Every stream tells a story, every rock has a name in Lakota. Driving the BLack Hills backroads means stepping into a quieter rhythm. We stop for wildflowers. We picnic by creeks. We take time to listen.
Favorite Black Hills Backroad Adventures
Here are a few of the roads and experiences we love to share. These are just a taste — the full magic comes when you’re in the passenger seat, and we tailor the day to you.
1. Castle Creek Road to Ditch Creek
This dusty track near Hill City winds along Castle Creek, a cold, clear stream known for fly fishing and solitude. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot brook trout flitting between the shadows of submerged logs.
Stop and walk the banks. You might catch the scent of pine and the sound of wind through the trees — and nothing else.
🎣 Fishing Tip: Castle Creek is ideal for barbless, catch-and-release fly fishing. Use small nymphs or dry flies in late summer.
More: South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks – Fishing Info
2. Camp 5 Road
Off Hwy 16A near Keystone, this rugged road cuts through dense forest and opens to views you won’t believe. It’s a favorite for spotting elk in the early morning and late evening.
Bring binoculars. And keep quiet — the animals know the difference between respectful visitors and nosy ones.
3. Elk Mountain Road to Black Fox Campground
High elevation, dirt road, and utter peace. You’ll pass alpine meadows full of wildflowers, trickling springs, and perhaps a porcupine crossing the trail.
Black Fox Campground is remote and unpaved. It’s one of the best picnic stops we know.
📷 Photo Tip: Bring a zoom lens and shoot just after sunrise. The morning light paints the forest gold.
Black Hills Backroads Streams and Hidden Waters
Water is life in the Hills — and it’s everywhere if you know where to look.
1. Rapid Creek (Above Pactola Reservoir)
Above the lake, Rapid Creek is tight, cold, and fast-moving — perfect for rainbows and browns. The road follows the stream, and pull-offs lead to deep pools.
Great place to cast a line, or just sit and listen.
2. Spring Creek (South of Sheridan Lake)
It’s shallow, clear, and full of small trout. Kids can splash in the bends, and shaded picnic spots are easy to find. Not many people stop here.
3. Spearfish Canyon’s Secret Tributaries
Everyone drives through Spearfish Canyon — but few leave the road. We guide you to where small waterfalls spill into hidden creeks like Iron Creek and Little Spearfish.
These spots aren’t on the map. That’s the point.
How to Respect the Backroads and Leave No Trace
If you’re lucky enough to explore these areas, treat them with care. The Black Hills are fragile — and sacred.
1. Stay on the Road (Seriously)
Driving off the path even a few feet widens trails, kills grass, and creates erosion. Don’t be that person.
Stick to established tracks. If you can’t pass, back up. The road doesn’t need your shortcut.
2. Pack It In, Pack It Out
No trash. No toilet paper. No excuses.
Even organic waste — like banana peels or apple cores — can take weeks or months to break down and doesn’t belong here.
Read: Leave No Trace Principles
3. Respect Wildlife
Stop the car. Watch quietly. No honking, no shouting.
Never feed animals — it ruins their instincts and can endanger both you and them. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens for photos.
Essential Tips for Driving the Black Hills Backroads
Most of our tours use a 4×4 for a reason. These roads can turn to ruts after rain or get steep without warning.
Don’t rely on cell service — it disappears quickly in the canyons. Always carry a paper map or download offline maps from GAIA GPS or AllTrails.
2. Watch the Weather
Rain can turn some dirt roads into mud traps. Always check conditions before heading out. Black Hills weather shifts fast — pack a rain jacket even on sunny days.
3. Respect Private Property
Some of these roads cross ranch land or border it. If you see a sign, gate, or fence, don’t assume you can go through. Always ask permission or stay on public routes.
How We Make Backroad Travel Safe and Special
At My XO Adventures, we go beyond the Google reviews and TripAdvisor rankings. We’re based in Rapid City, and we’ve driven the Black Hills Backroads — in every season, through every kind of weather.
We guide you to the places we love — places most travelers will never see.
We carry professional-grade binoculars for wildlife spotting.
We provide hands-on educational materials in the vehicle for geology, ecology, and history.
Our vehicles include CPR-certified guides, first aid kits, and AEDs — because safety always comes first.
You’re not just along for the ride — you’re part of the journey. We slow down, talk about what we’re seeing, and tailor every trip to you.
Want to get off the pavement? Book your private backroads tour here.
The Best Time for Black Hills Backroads Touring
Every season offers something different:
Spring: Flowing creeks, baby wildlife, fresh greens
Summer: Wildflowers, starry skies, shady forests
Fall: Flaming aspens, cool hikes, rutting elk
Winter: Snow-draped pines, quiet trails, frozen waterfalls
We operate year-round. And winter backroads? That’s a whole other kind of beauty — check out our Badlands Winter Wonderland Tour.
