The Black Hills of South Dakota are best known for Mount Rushmore, but there’s much more to see in this rugged region. From granite peaks and scenic drives to quirky roadside stops and historic towns, the Black Hills offer plenty of attractions that don’t cost a dime. Whether you’re road-tripping through South Dakota or planning a budget-friendly family vacation, you’ll find plenty of free ways to experience the area.
This guide highlights the best free things to do in the Black Hills, from nature walks and viewpoints to cultural stops.
Scenic Drives
Needles Highway
One of the most famous drives in the Black Hills, Needles Highway (SD Highway 87) winds through sharp granite spires, tunnels, and forests.
- Highlights: The Needles Eye Tunnel, Cathedral Spires, and Sylvan Lake.
- Cost: Free to drive, but Custer State Park has an entrance fee if you go further inside. Sticking to the highway is free.
Iron Mountain Road
This winding road connects Mount Rushmore to Custer State Park.
- Highlights: Scenic pigtail bridges and framed views of Mount Rushmore through rock tunnels.
- Why go: A favorite for photographers and motorcyclists.
Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway
Running between Spearfish and Cheyenne Crossing, this byway follows a limestone canyon carved by Spearfish Creek.
- Highlights: Bridal Veil Falls, Roughlock Falls, and towering canyon walls.
- Best time: Fall, when the leaves turn golden.
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
Black Elk Peak
At 7,242 feet, Black Elk Peak is the highest point east of the Rockies.
- Trailhead: From Sylvan Lake (Custer State Park) or alternative access points outside the park if you want to avoid fees.
- Experience: The summit offers panoramic views of the Black Hills and the old stone Harney Peak Fire Tower.
Roughlock Falls Trail
Located in Spearfish Canyon, this short, family-friendly trail leads to one of the prettiest waterfalls in the region.
- Trail length: About 1 mile round trip.
- Accessibility: Well-maintained and easy for most visitors.
Sunday Gulch Trail
A loop trail near Sylvan Lake with boulders, creek crossings, and wooden railings.
- Why it’s great: Less crowded than Black Elk Peak and still offers great scenery.
Other Free Hikes
- Buzzard’s Roost (near Rapid City): Quick hike with sweeping views.
- Flume Trail: Historic route along an old flume bed with tunnels.
- Mickelson Trail: Most sections require a pass, but some trailheads are free for short walks.
Historic and Cultural Stops
Mount Rushmore (Viewing Area)
While parking at Mount Rushmore costs $10, it’s free to visit if you find alternative transport or walk in. Even better, you can see the monument for free from nearby pullouts on Iron Mountain Road.
Crazy Horse Memorial (Highway Viewpoint)
The Crazy Horse Memorial charges admission, but you can see the enormous carving from the highway for free.
Deadwood Historic District
Deadwood is famous for its Gold Rush history and Wild West legends like Wild Bill Hickok.
- Free activities: Stroll Main Street, admire restored buildings, and browse historic markers.
- Paid extras: Casinos and museums charge, but the town itself is free to explore.
Rapid City’s City of Presidents
Downtown Rapid City features life-size bronze statues of U.S. presidents on street corners.
- Cost: Free self-guided walking tour.
- Tip: Pick up a map at the visitor center.
Nature and Wildlife
Pactola Lake
The largest reservoir in the Black Hills offers free access at certain pullouts and picnic areas. Great for swimming, fishing, and photography.
Wildlife Viewing
Bison, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep roam the Black Hills region. While Custer State Park charges an entry fee, you can often spot wildlife along roads outside the park or in open prairies.
Badlands Overlap
Though technically outside the Black Hills, the nearby Badlands have free overlooks along SD Highway 240 if you don’t enter through the main park gates.
Unique Roadside Attractions
Dinosaur Park (Rapid City)
A quirky WPA project from the 1930s, Dinosaur Park features life-size concrete dinosaurs on a hill overlooking Rapid City.
- Cost: Free admission and parking.
- Fun factor: Great stop for families.
Wall Drug
The famous roadside attraction near the edge of the Badlands is free to enter.
- What to see: Oddball displays, photo ops, and the iconic free ice water.
- Shopping and dining cost extra, but browsing is free.
Chapel in the Hills
Located just outside Rapid City, this wooden chapel is a replica of a 12th-century Norwegian stave church.
- Cost: Free entry (donations welcome).
- Highlights: Peaceful grounds and beautiful architecture.
Festivals and Seasonal Events
Summer in the Black Hills means free festivals and community events.
- Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (August): While lodging skyrockets, you can wander downtown Sturgis and take in the spectacle for free.
- Rapid City Summer Nights: Weekly concerts downtown.
- Spearfish Art in the Park: Local crafts and food stalls.
Always check local calendars for events during your visit.
Best Time to Visit the Black Hills
- Summer (June–August): Lively, with festivals and long days, but busiest.
- Fall (September–October): Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful colors.
- Spring (April–May): Quiet, with wildflowers beginning to bloom.
- Winter: Some attractions close, but snow adds beauty to hikes and drives.
Pros and Cons of Free Activities in the Black Hills
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Saves money for families and budget travelers | Some areas require park passes for full access |
| Wide variety of outdoor and cultural experiences | Summer crowds at popular free spots |
| Great photo opportunities | Limited public transport, so a car is essential |
| Many roadside stops require little time | Weather can affect access to hikes and drives |
Suggested Free Itinerary
Day 1: Drive Needles Highway, hike Sunday Gulch Trail, sunset at Sylvan Lake (outside park area if avoiding fees)
Day 2: Explore Spearfish Canyon, hike Roughlock Falls Trail, picnic at Bridal Veil Falls
Day 3: Visit Rapid City’s City of Presidents, Dinosaur Park, and Chapel in the Hills
Day 4: Walk Deadwood’s historic Main Street, stop at Crazy Horse highway viewpoint, end with Wall Drug
This itinerary mixes nature, history, and quirky fun without spending much.
Conclusion
The Black Hills are famous for their paid attractions like Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park, but you don’t need a big budget to enjoy the area. From scenic drives and waterfalls to historic towns and quirky roadside stops, there are plenty of free things to do in the Black Hills.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Spearfish Canyon, hiking to the highest peak in South Dakota, or strolling through Deadwood’s history, the region proves that some of the best experiences really are free.
FAQs
Is Mount Rushmore free to visit?
Yes, entry is free, but parking costs $10. You can also see the monument from nearby viewpoints without paying.
What are the best free hikes in the Black Hills?
Black Elk Peak, Roughlock Falls, and Buzzard’s Roost are all excellent free hikes with great views.
Can you see wildlife in the Black Hills without paying?
Yes. While Custer State Park charges admission, bison, deer, and pronghorn can often be seen along roads and open prairies outside the park.
What’s the best free attraction in Rapid City?
Dinosaur Park and the City of Presidents are both fun, free stops downtown.
Is Wall Drug worth a stop?
Yes. It’s quirky, free to enter, and a classic South Dakota roadside experience.
