Although walk-up guests are welcome, our tours often sell out in advance. To secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment, we strongly recommend booking early.
The Wind Cave and Wildlife Tour opens the door to one of the most fascinating regions in the Southern Black Hills. This part of South Dakota feels rich with character and natural charm, shaped by stories that reach far into the past. Guests often say the experience feels like stepping into a living classroom filled with wildlife, geology, and landscapes that make you pause for a moment just to take it all in. The tour blends quiet adventure with meaningful interpretation, giving travelers a chance to understand this region through the eyes of someone who knows it well.
What makes the Wind Cave and Wildlife Tour so memorable is the contrast between two worlds. Above ground, the Southern Black Hills stretch across rolling prairie, ponderosa forest, and wide open views that catch the sunlight in beautiful ways throughout the day. Below the surface lies Wind Cave, a place unlike any other in North America. This cave holds rare formations, a complex maze of passages, and a sense of wonder that’s hard to put into words. Visiting both the land and the cave gives your group a deeper appreciation of how this landscape formed and how much life it supports.
Wind Cave itself captures attention with its history and science. Known for its unique boxwork formations, the cave stands apart from more traditional cavern systems. Boxwork looks delicate and intricate, yet it has survived thousands of years tucked within the cave walls. Guests often talk about how surprising it is to discover a place that feels both ancient and fragile. The guided experience helps people understand how the cave developed, how air pressure interacts with the openings, and why it remains one of the most protected natural wonders in the entire region.
Stepping back outside brings another side of the adventure. The Southern Black Hills are home to some of the most impressive wildlife sightings in South Dakota. Bison move across the landscape with a calm confidence that reminds you of the area’s deep cultural and ecological history. Pronghorn graze near the hillsides. Prairie dogs pop in and out of their towns. Turkeys wander along the tree line. Now and then, a coyote appears in the distance, moving quietly through the grass. The animals create a sense of connection to a place that still feels wild and free.
The Wind Cave and Wildlife Tour gives guests the chance to experience these animals without rushing. People appreciate time to observe, take photos, and learn about the behavior and habitat of each species. You begin to notice patterns that might go unnoticed when traveling on your own. You see how bison interact with their calves. You hear how prairie dogs communicate with each other. You watch the way pronghorn stay alert as they graze. Every moment feels natural and unscripted, which is precisely what makes the Southern Black Hills so special.
As you travel through the area, the landscape tells its own story. Layers of limestone, pockets of forest, and stretches of open range blend in a way that feels peaceful. The Southern Black Hills carry a gentle energy that people feel the moment they arrive. The region has a slower pace and a natural rhythm that encourages visitors to breathe a little deeper and enjoy the view.
Guided interpretation brings everything together. The Wind Cave and Wildlife Tour offers insights into geology, ecology, Lakota history, conservation work, park development over the years, and the ongoing efforts to protect native species. Guests often comment that their visit feels much richer when they understand the land rather than just passing through it. This is the heart of the tour. It’s about sharing knowledge, sparking curiosity, and helping travelers see the Black Hills in a new light.
Wind Cave National Park and the surrounding prairies create a powerful combination of beauty and substance. The tour honors both. Guests leave with a stronger connection to South Dakota, a deeper appreciation for the natural world, and a sense of gratitude for landscapes that remain open, alive, and full of stories.
If you want a Southern Black Hills experience filled with wildlife, natural wonders, and thoughtful interpretation, the Wind Cave and Wildlife Tour captures the region’s true spirit. It’s a journey shaped by discovery, connection, and the quiet magic of a place that continues to inspire visitors year after year.
2 tours and 1 to go with XO Adventures. Both guides, Daniel and Kelli, have been absolutely fantastic! Highlighted the attractions for Black Hills and Devil’s Tower/Spearfish Canyon, but also tailored to meet additional requests. Highly recommended for your personal tours!
Tour guide Dan was awesome! He was very knowledgeable and did not rush us through, always willing to stop onlong the way if we seen anything interesting, like Hawks, Ram, Bison, Deer, Antelope, Prairie Dogs, Porcupine and a Badger! It was awesome with the evening golden light on the clay Badlands formations. Then when it got dark we enjoyed the night skys watching shooting stars, satellites and of course the milky way. Sitting in the provided zero G chairs provided comfort and a mind relaxing experience. Highly recommend this tour of the Badlands!
Spent 3 days in South Dakota with Daniel as our guide. Each day was a new adventure which we really enjoyed. He was very prompt and extremely knowledgeable with South Dakota history and landmarks. He made sure we had plenty of time at each monument, we never felt rushed. We requested to stay later in the Badlands to see the stars and he accommodated us. We would recommend anyone looking for a guide in South Dakota to call XO Adventures.
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.
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.
We don’t just show you the sights—we connect you to the stories that make them unforgettable. With a focus on responsible tourism and respect for the land’s rich heritage, we ensure your journey is meaningful and memorable.
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!
The Black Hills region is known for its stunning parks and natural attractions, including Custer State Park, the Cathedral Spires, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Visitors can enjoy granite spires, pine forests, lakes, and waterfalls, as well as attractions like Sylvan Lake, Spearfish Canyon, and Black Elk Peak.
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 natural 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.
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. It’s our pleasure to share our knowledge and hopefully make new friends in the process!
Click on a tour below for more information & booking.
Your questions answered
A personally guided tour. Avoid the crowds, learn the story, and observe the carving.
May, late September and early October are best to avoid crowds.
The Presidential Trail takes you close to the monument, provides unique vantage points, and leads you to the sculptor’s studio.
Yes! Iron Mountain Road leads you from Mount Rushmore to Custer State Park and Needles Highway.
It depends on your interests, but typically 1- 1 ½ hours.
Reusable water bottles, a camera, layered clothing, sneakers with a good grip, sunglasses, a hat, and your curiosity.
The Black Hills is known for its unpredictable weather. At 5,725 feet, Mount Rushmore can vary between cool and hot temperatures, with clear skies or rain and sometimes fog. The summer is usually very pleasant, but be prepared.
Yes! We will stop for lunch at a local restaurant at a time of your choosing.
We know all the bathroom facilities en route and prompt you when they are nearby.
The tour’s length can vary depending on several factors, but it typically lasts between 8 and 9 hours.
No, this is a private tour. We don’t mix groups.
Your guide will contact you on or a few minutes before arrival with the vehicle description.
We have Ford Transit passenger vans, GMC Yukon XLs, and a Chevy Tahoe.
We operate the tour rain or shine. The only exception is severe weather. In this case, we may delay pickup, pause along the tour to enjoy an attraction indoors, or allow a storm to pass. Our guests’ safety is the number one priority.
We customize the tour to your physical ability. If walking is a concern, Mount Rushmore tends to be the longest walk down the Avenue of the Flags. If you enjoy hiking, we’ll add as many moments as possible.
Yes, you’re chances at seeing wildlife are highest in Custer State Park along the Wildlife Loop Road.
Common wildlife seen throughout the tour are Buffalo, Deer, Pronghorn Antelope, Prairie Dogs, Raptors, Songbirds, Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goats, Turkeys, Yellow-Bellied Marmots, Chipmunks, Coyote, Elk and more.
While Daniel can be requested, it cannot be guaranteed. All of our guides are highly trained and personable. We have a great team focused on making your experience exceptional!
It depends. If you are outside the Rapid City area, a surcharge covers time, fuel, and expenses. Gratuities are not included and are appreciated. Daniel appreciates gratuities as well! We charge $99 an hour if you want to extend your tour length.
While this varies from person to person, we set the bar high and work very hard to clear it. Tips vary between $80 to $250.
Yes, it can be customized to your likes and interests. Please inquire directly about your customization requests.
Typically, we limit the number of guests to six but make exceptions for certain groups and can accommodate up to eight.
We are a door-to-door service. Our guides will pick you up directly from your accommodations. If your accommodations are outside the free pickup area within Rapid City and you do not want to pay the additional fee, we can meet at the Holiday Inn Convention Center parking lot at 505 North 5th Street.
Absolutely. We love our little adventurers. Our guides adjust to ensure kids are learning, happy, and engaged. Out of respect for the land, our guides, and the experience, we ask that cell phones, games, and other electronic devices be left behind or used extremely limitedly during the tour.
There are no additional charges for legal, certified service animals. However, any animal onboard will require additional work to clean surfaces, vacuum fur, and remove dander. You may want to consider this when tipping your guide.
We offer promotions from time to time. You can find these by subscribing to our newsletter on the website.
We offer two payment options. One is to make a deposit upfront, with the remainder due 14 days before the tour date. The other is to pay in full. For deposit details and terms, please call.
Yes, there are. We have an array of My XO Adventures swag and connections with local Native American artists who provide us with authentic items to sell.
The tours and customer service are not the same. We feel that booking directly gives you the best experience, care, and personal touch you deserve.
