The Black Hills of South Dakota, on the western edge of the state are beautiful mountains, that seem black from a distance due to the thick covering of pine forest.
The Native American people call it Paha Sapa, and it is a center of their spiritual beliefs. If you have watched the moon rise over Harney peak or seen the waters of a crystal clear stream rush through the rocks, you will understand why.
The Black Hills offers so many vacation style choices, if you prefer hiking, climbing, biking and other sports, you will find it all here.
If you prefer seclusion and quiet with nature, the view from a mountain top or the wind through the pines, it is here waiting for you.
Or if you prefer sight seeing, shopping, ntural and historic points of interest, and even some quirky tourist sites, they are here as well.
The Black Hills are called the "friendly" mountains because they are so accessible. Older than the Rockies they have been beaten down by the elements and time, making them easier to climb and enjoy. Harney Peak is still a 3 hour walk to the top, but you do not need climbing gear. Or if you wish to try your hand at climbing, Needles Highway is a popular site.
Mt Rushmore is here, with a new visitors center that will amaze. At the foot of the mountain is Keystone, where you can pan for gold, ride a tram, book a helicopter tour, visit the Rushmore-Borglum museum, get an old fashioned picture taken, and so much more!
Hill City and Custer are small towns in the heart of the Hills, each with their own charm and flavor. I highly reccomend the Crazy Horse memorial. A small charge per vehicle helps to fund this work in progress, and there is often night blasting on the mountain which is amazing to behold.
There are many drives to take, with incredible scenery and wildlife. The three I recommend are: The Wildlife loop, with buffalo, antelope, dear and prairie dogs; Iron Mt. Road with its tunnels and views of Mt. Rushmore; and the drive through Custer State Park to Hot Springs where you go from mountains to plains and are able to enjoy vistas seen no where else.
There are so many activites geared to every age I can not possibly name them all, but I have gone to the Hills nearly every year of my life and plan to continue, taking my children now, to find their own fascination in the Black Hills of SD.