South Dakota | Black Hills & Mount Rushmore | Adult Only

Begin your vacation by exploring Bear Butte State Park and summit the mountain trail yielding sweeping panoramic views for miles and miles. Experience the Old West and learn why Bear Butte is considered one of the most sacred lands by the Plains Indians. After a short tour of the visitor’s center, we head over to the famous biker town of Sturgis for lunch at a local spot. Load up in the van to travel a short distance away to the town of Spearfish for a bike ride through a neat canyon. This evening, we arrive at Deadwood, our home for the night. We’ll walk the same sidewalks as the likes of Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, Wyatt Earp, and Buffalo Bill, to name just a few. Tonight we enjoy dinner in downtown Deadwood, a short walk from our hotel.

About Four Points by Sheraton

Located in the heart of historic Deadwood, Four Points by Sheraton is just steps away from museums, shops, nightlife, and more. conveniently attached to the casino action and Deadwood’s most popular attractions.  Plus, your favorite cup of coffee is always within reach — they have an on-site Starbucks! Whether you’re partaking in Deadwood’s Legendary gaming halls, exploring the stunning backcountry of the Black Hills, or enjoying a romantic rendezvous, the tastefully appointed guest rooms offer welcome and luxurious comforts.

After a hearty breakfast, we head up to the old gold town of Rochford to begin our first leg of the Mickelson Trail. The trail follows the historic Deadwood to Edgemont Burlington Northern rail line, which serviced gold country for nearly a century. We ride the trail “backward” as we make our way back towards Deadwood. Enjoy lunch and some downtime before spending your afternoon exploring Deadwood on your own. Deadwood is a National Historic Landmark that was originally settled illegally by gold rushers. Experience the historic town that embodies the lawless west as you explore Deadwood’s museums and downtown. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Today, eat a big breakfast because we have a big and exciting day ahead of us! We’ll first transfer by van to Rochford where our continuing ride up and down the Mickelson Trail begins. Pass by the Mystic Trailhead as you make your way to Hill City, the second oldest town in the Black Hills. Near here, we’ll do lunch and perhaps even a bit of swimming. We’ll check into our accommodation for the next three nights, Sylvan Lake Lodge before we depart for a scenic tour of the Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road. Explore Mount Rushmore, America’s Shrine of Democracy before dinner at a local restaurant.

About the Sylvan Lake Lodge

Rich in history and natural beauty, Sylvan Lake Lodge holds the designation of Custer State Park’s “crown jewel”. This property features beautifully renovated lodge rooms and cabins, a lounge, a restaurant, and an outdoor veranda that offers breathtaking views. The location of Sylvan Lake Lodge can’t be beat, thanks to the design inspired by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. When the original lakeshore resort burned down in 1935, Wright suggested the current location amidst a forest of pine and spruce trees. The recently renovated Sylvan Lake Dining Room features the best in steaks, seafood, and chef’s specialties.

Another amazing day awaits you! We’ll resume our Mickelson Trail bike ride, pedaling a 29-mile stretch with rewarding views of Crazy Horse before we pedal back down to the town of Custer where picnic lunch awaits. This afternoon, we’ll begin our ride where we left off to pedal to the tiny town of Pringle. This afternoon we will take in natural beauty as we transfer to Wind Cave to tour one of the most complex and longest caves in the world. Enjoy tonight’s dinner at our accommodation’s restaurant.

Today we will continue our journey south on the Mickelson Trail, completing the final section of our 110-mile journey. This easygoing section of trail passes through rolling foothills, expansive private ranches, and “as-far-as-the-eye-can-see” prairies. Lunch is at the City Park in Edgemont, the official end of the trail, where we will celebrate our last day of biking with a toast! After lunch, enjoy a bit of free time before shuttling to the State Game Lodge for a final dinner together. Tonight, toast to a great week spent exploring the Black Hills!

This morning we head over to the world’s largest mountain carving, Crazy Horse. Still, in progress, the Memorial is destined to be some 10 times the size of Mt Rushmore. This is more than just carvings in stone; it is a compound that will eventually pay tribute to the American Indians and the great Indian Chief, Crazy Horse, housing the Indian Museum of North America, Indian University of North America, and a host of other properties. After your tour we will say good bye to the Black Hills and head back to Rapid City for our final farewells.

We hope you’ll join us again soon!

** Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, weather, wildlife, and other factors outside of our control, for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, as deemed necessary and appropriate by Austin Adventures.