South Dakota Travel Itinerary

South Dakota Travel Itinerary

Arrival and Mount Rushmore

• Arrive in South Dakota and head straight to Mount Rushmore. Spend about an hour exploring the grounds, learning about the monument’s history, and taking iconic photos of the four presidents.
• For the best shot, drive a mile north past the parking lot for a unique side-angle view of George Washington’s head. Use your telephoto lens (2x, 3x, 5x) for the best shot of the monument.

Exploring Crazy Horse and the Badlands

• Visit the Crazy Horse Monument for the alternative history of the South Dakota Native American lives. Spend time at the exhibits to learn about the history and the significance of the monument. Opt for the $5 bus ride for a closer view.
• Head to Badlands National Park. Explore the colorful buttes, spires, and pinnacles. Take advantage of the early afternoon light for stunning photos.
• Evening: Enjoy the changing colors and shadows of the Badlands at sunset. This is a prime time for photography, so take your time capturing the unique landscapes.

Wildlife and Scenic Drives

• Take a scenic drive along the Needles Highway. Stop at the Sylvan Lake area for a leisurely hike and photo opportunities. Visit Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop for a chance to see bison and other wildlife.
• Head to Wall Drug, a unique and expansive store that is a must-see in South Dakota. Take some quirky photos and enjoy the local charm. It’s about a 30 minute drive from the Badlands area.
  

Historical Sites and Local Attractions

• Head north and drive to Deadwood, an old western town with a rich history. Explore the theme park-like setting, visit the casinos and shops, and soak in the wild west atmosphere.
• Go south to visit the more authentic town of Custer. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Black Hills and take a leisurely walk or drive to appreciate the surroundings. From Custer, be sure to take a drive to the Custer State Park Wildlife Scenic Byway Trailhead, where in the evening, around sunset time, you are virtually guaranteed to see bison and other wildlife roaming.

Travel Tips:

• Photography: The best times for photography in the Badlands are early morning and late evening when the light is soft and shadows are long. Consider converting some photos to black and white for a more dramatic effect.
• Wildlife: Always keep a safe distance from wildlife, and use the telephoto lens for close-up shots.