What is more peaceful than a blanket of fresh fallen snow covering the Black Hills and Badlands landscape? As the winter season transitions into later dawns and early dusks, there is magic to be found throughout the region with fresh fallen snow, holidays with loved ones, and outdoor adventures at a new level.
Plan your trip to the Black Hills and Badlands using our winter itinerary with family-friendly activities, winter powder adventures, and signature events.
MAJESTIC WINTER SCENES
For stunning winter imagery, check out frozen waterfalls throughout Spearfish Canyon or take in the winter beauty and serene silence at Sheridan and Sylvan lakes.
Iconic monuments including Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial® are open and the light dusting of snow on the granite masterpieces offer a picturesque view. Take scenic drives through Badlands National Park and Wind Cave National Park photographing stunning buttes, pinnacles, and Western prairies where bison graze on the winter landscape.
THINGS TO DO
Family Fun
As the air cools, find indoor adventures from virtual arcades and glow-in-the-dark miniature golf. Museums allow you to interact with educational exhibits and take a look at the region’s prehistoric past. Experience an archeological dig, travel through time, or meet a dinosaur.
Outdoor Recreation
Outdoor adventures don’t stop when flurries fly. Winter activities like skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and fat biking let you hit the trails and explore! Bring your own gear or check out rental companies to get fully equipped.
Hit the ski slopes in Lead or check out the trails throughout the Black Hills National Forest that are designated for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking, as well as offering the opportunity to explore and wander through peaceful pines.
Unique Attractions
The winter months are filled with thrilling, one-of-a-kind events that incorporate holiday festivities and cultural and regional flares.
The 1880 Train offers a variety of holiday and winter themed train rides. Sip hot cocoa and munch on sugar cookies and candy canes while riding through the Black Hills, while gazing out at the snow-covered landscapes. And we have good authority there just might be a special visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus—so, you had better be good!
Step into your favorite childhood stories while celebrating the magic of the holidays with a stroll through Storybook Island’s sparkling Christmas displays while sipping hot cocoa. The holiday light show runs Friday-Sundays in November and December.
Kick off the New Year with exhilarating rodeo performances. The Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo® is an annual rodeo and vendor fair in Rapid City. More than 100 rodeo events are held throughout the week. The trade show includes more than 400 vendors, food, clothing, art, and jewelry. Live music and entertainment for kids are part of this event.
Check out all BH&B events here.
PLACES TO STAY
Cozy up in a rustic cabin, light the fireplace, and sip that morning coffee before a day of exploring. Cabins and bed and breakfasts are located throughout the Black Hills and Badlands, offering scenic views along with comforting accommodations. Hotel resorts offer full amenities and are located near downtown locales and regional attractions for easy accessibility during your stay. And just because it’s winter doesn’t mean kids can’t splash around in the pools! Indoor waterpark resorts ensure fun for the entire family. View lodging options and book in advance.
PLAN
Start planning your visit to the Black Hills and Badlands today, so you don’t miss the golden glow of the region. View and download the Black Hills & Badlands Vacation Guide, the perfect “While you’re here” guide for adventure. The BH&B website also has several downloadable maps, as well as digital coupons to help you do more while spending less!
