6 Best Sights in The Southern Black Hills, South Dakota

Iron Mountain Road

Fodor's choice
Legendary former governor and U.S. senator Peter Norbeck personally oversaw the layout of this road, which was designed during the 1930s to complement the park's scenic beauty. The 17-mile route winds around several wooden, pigtail bridges and passes through three rock tunnels that frame Mount Rushmore. Plan an hour or more on this road, because the going is intentionally slow, and you'll want to stop for pictures. The road forms part of the longer Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway.

Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa

Fodor's choice
The warm, mineral springs that give this city its name are no longer believed to cure a range of ills, but they are definitely good for your soul, especially in a setting as unique and luxurious as this. An entrepreneur built this business atop the stone ruins of the 1890 Minnekahta Bathhouse, incorporating the remains of that long-ago retreat into a chic new spa. You can drop in for a soak, get a massage and other spa treatments, and even stay in a bungalow or cabin. This is big-city luxury in a beautiful, quiet, small-town atmosphere.

Needles Highway

Fodor's choice
Like Iron Mountain Road, the construction of Needles Highway was overseen by the late South Dakota politician Peter Norbeck, who took great care to complement the area's natural beauty. The winding, 14-mile road has numerous scenic overlooks, passes through two rock tunnels, and showcases the giant, fingerlike granite formations known as the Needles. The most popular stop on the route is the Needle's Eye, where one of the massive Needles formations sports a hole worn away by erosion. Because the Needle's Eye area is often packed with people and vehicles in tight quarters, use extra caution when passing through or stopping for a look.

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Sylvan Lake

Fodor's choice
People love to scramble around on the big rock formations that line this small, placid, picturesque mountain lake, which is high up in one of the most scenic parts of the park. The lake is very popular among paddlers, and there are kayak and canoe rentals available. Swimmers love the beach, and the campground is always full. A walking path along the shore is great for a relaxing stroll, while several other trails begin near the lake—including the most popular route to Black Elk Peak, the state's highest point. Snacks, drinks, apparel, and other items are available in the general store. All of these things make Sylvan Lake extremely popular, so you might consider getting up early to find parking and beat the crowds.

The Mammoth Site

Fodor's choice

While building a housing development in the 1970s, workers uncovered this sinkhole where giant mammoths came to drink, got trapped, and died about 26,000 years ago. The site has been protected with a high, domelike structure so archaeologists can dig up and study the bones. To date, the remains of 60-plus mammoths have been discovered, and most have been left in place, partially excavated, for visitors to see. You can watch the excavation in progress, take guided tours, and learn all about mammoths and archaeology.

Ruins Fodor's Choice
1800 U.S. 18 Bypass, Hot Springs, SD, 57747, USA
605-745–6017
www.mammothsite.com
Sights Details
Rate Includes: $12, May–Sept., daily 8–8; Oct., daily 9–5; Nov.–Apr., Mon.–Sat. 9–3:30, Sun. 11–3:30

Wind Cave National Park

Fodor's choice

With more than 150 miles of explored passageways (and counting), Wind Cave ranks as the seventh-longest cave in the world, several places behind Jewel Cave, which is also in the Black Hills. Cave tours at Wind Cave range from one to two hours and are first-come, first-served, so it's advisable to arrive early in the morning. If you miss the tour or want something to do afterward or while you wait, don't miss the opportunity to explore the park's surface area, which is one of the most underappreciated yet ruggedly beautiful parts of the Black Hills. You'll likely see some of the park's bison, prairie dogs, and other wildlife, and there are numerous hiking trails.

Please see the Wind Cave National Park chapter for more detailed information.