South Dakotans know that our state is a true diamond in the rough, but it seems like the rest of the country is often quick to catch up (until, of course, they visit for the first time). That being said, we are always thrilled when we see one of our favorite SoDak destinations getting the recognition it deserves, which is what happened with the brilliant Black Hills.
Tucked away in the southwest corner of the state, the Black Hills are arguably one of the biggest gems in the Mount Rushmore State… and for a good reason!
Runner1928/Wikimedia Commons
Spanning an incredible 5,000+ square miles, the Black Hills are as historical as they are beautiful, as the area is not only home to gigantic trees and hills but also evidence of the ancient Lakota Native Americans, plus evidence of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures.
Grahampurse/Wikimedia Commons
In addition to the landscape itself, the Black Hills are home to 2 national monuments (Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse), waterfalls, caves, and open prairies, making for a place unlike any other.
Flickr/Paul Thompson
Obviously, we here at Only in South Dakota think that the Black Hills are pretty spectacular, but we are not the only ones, as Thrillist just named the area as The Midwest’s Best Winter Escape Isn’t Where You Think It Is.
Flickr/Drew Jacksich
As per Thrillist, “The scenery that makes this state such a gem in the summer gets a snowy layer of makeup in the winter, turning the Black Hills a stunning white and transforming the glimmering lakes of western South Dakota into iridescent frozen playgrounds,” adding that “The mountains, monuments, and canyons that attract thousands in the warmer months are left for you to enjoy solo.”
Flickr/Christine Warner
While the landscape itself is all that needs to be noted, Thrillist also mentions a few of the area’s best attractions, including the vibrant communities (a la Rapid City, Sturgis, and Keystone), delicious restaurants, ski and outdoor recreational opportunities, and breweries and wineries.
Flickr/Paul Pictured is the pristine Spearfish Falls.
To learn more about this list - or to check out even more travel tips - please visit Thrillist’s website.
Flickr/Thomas Hawk
To learn more about the beautiful Black Hills, check out The Next Time You Visit South Dakota’s Black Hills, Look Out For These 7 Surprising Things.
Runner1928/Wikimedia Commons
Grahampurse/Wikimedia Commons
Flickr/Paul Thompson
Flickr/Drew Jacksich
Flickr/Christine Warner
Flickr/Paul
Pictured is the pristine Spearfish Falls.
Flickr/Thomas Hawk
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Address: Black Hills, United States
