The high season in the Black Hills runs strictly through the summer, from June to August, peaking dramatically in early August for the Sturgis Rally. September and October offer a smaller "shoulder season" for fall foliage. The slower season spans the winter months from November through April, when colder weather and snow limit access to certain roads and attractions, making it a much quieter time for tourism.

Most guests fly into Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) and book a rental car to explore the scenic byways and landmarks. The Rapid City Regional Airport provides a variety of nonstop flights to major hubs, so it’s easy to fly in and out of when planning a trip to the Black Hills. If you prefer a road trip, Interstate 90 connects the region to nearby states.

Top-attractions in the Black Hills include Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial®. Driving the scenic Needles Highway is noteworthy, as is spying bison in Custer State Park. Outdoor adventures await at Wind Cave and Black Elk Peak and history abounds in Deadwood. Other unique attractions include Reptile Gardens, Wall Drug, and Bear Country USA.

• Sturgis Motorcycle Rally: Held every August, this is the region's largest event—and one of the most famous motorcycle rallies in the world—drawing hundreds of thousands of enthusiasts to the rolling hills of South Dakota.
• Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo®: Taking place in Rapid City, this is South Dakota's second-largest event. It features livestock shows, PRCA rodeo action, and draws over 330,000 attendees to celebrate Western tradition.
• Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup: Held at the end of September, this massive event draws thousands of spectators to watch cowboys and cowgirls round up the park's free-roaming bison herd.
• Mount Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony: Running throughout the summer, this is the most attended program in the national park service, illuminating the iconic faces of the monument.
• Gold Camp Jubilee: Located in Lead over the 4th of July weekend, this event honors the area's rich mining history with live entertainment, a massive parade down historic Main Street, and some of the largest fireworks in the Black Hills.