Northern Black Hills - Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish Canyon Tour

Rapid City , United States

Northern Black Hills - Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish Canyon Tour

Active

(7 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This Northern Black Hills Shared Tour is unique because it combines breathtaking scenery with a fascinating glimpse into the Wild West history that shaped the region. You'll experience the natural beauty of the northern Black Hills while also uncovering the stories and historical points that bring the legendary Wild West days to life. It's a perfect balance of natural wonder and historical intrigue!

Available options

Northern Black Hills - Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish Canyon Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Entrance fee

English Guide

Snacks

Umbrellas and blankets in van

Detailed itinerary

This narrated tour begins when we pick you up at your Rapid City hotel at approximately 8:30 AM. We drive to Sturgis, the town made famous by the Motorcycle Rally which is held the first week of August. We will tell you about the history of the town, the motorcycle rally and Ft. Meade, a peace-keeping fort built in 1878 that is still used by the Veterans’ Administration and the South Dakota National Guard.

Then we continue up to the town of Spearfish where we enter the scenic Spearfish Canyon with its limestone cliffs, waterfalls, evergreen, birch and aspen trees. We will stop for pictures and viewing.

From Spearfish Canyon we drive into the town of Lead to tell you about the history and view the historic buildings and landmarks there. There is a 30 minute stop at the Homestake Mine Visitor Center to see the open cut mine. This was the largest gold mine in the western hemisphere for 125 years before it closed. It was given to the State of South Dakota and is now being used as an underground National Science Lab. The mine is 8,000 ft deep.

After this visit we drive to Deadwood with a stop in Pluma at the Chubby Chipmunk Chocolate Shop where they make the best truffles in the Black Hills (if you want to stop!). We continue to Deadwood, the historic town that is part of the last Gold Rush in the Continental USA in 1876.

We can drive up to Mt. Moriah Cemetery where you may walk in to see the graves of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane and others. If you would rather not walk you may take the local one hour bus tour that takes you into the cemetery right up to the graves.

You may tour the 1892 Victorian home called the Adams House, go to the Tatanka Buffalo Jump bronze statues, or visit the Adams Museum. You will have time to explore the downtown area and its historic buildings including the place where Wild Bill Hickok was shot, Saloon #10 with all its antiques and historic pictures. Guests will have time to buy their lunch here during the tour.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Rapid City

Rapid City is the second-largest city in South Dakota, known as the gateway to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The city offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and cultural attractions, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Black Hills.

Top Attractions

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

A massive granite sculpture featuring the 60-foot heads of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (parking fee applies)

Badlands National Park

A stunning landscape of layered rock formations, deep canyons, and towering spires. The park offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.

Nature Full day Free (parking fee applies)

Crazy Horse Memorial

A massive mountain carving honoring the Lakota leader Crazy Horse. The memorial includes a museum and cultural center.

Historical 2-3 hours $12 per adult, $6 per child (ages 6-12), free for children under 6

Reptile Gardens

A family-friendly attraction featuring a wide variety of reptiles, amphibians, and birds. The park also offers live animal shows and a petting zoo.

Nature 1-2 hours $18 per adult, $10 per child (ages 4-12), free for children under 4

Must-Try Local Dishes

Chislic

Cubed, deep-fried meat, typically made from lamb or venison, seasoned with garlic salt. A South Dakota specialty.

Appetizer/Snack Not vegetarian/vegan

Bison Burger

A burger made from bison meat, often served with local toppings and sides.

Main Course Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian options available

Kuchen

A German-inspired dessert, similar to a coffee cake, often made with fruit and topped with a crumbly streusel.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Rock climbing Mountain biking Spa treatments Scenic drives Picnicking Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and all attractions open. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rapid City is generally safe with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas

Getting there

By air

Rapid City Regional Airport • 10 miles from city center

By bus

Jefferson Lines

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient bus service covering major areas of Rapid City. Fares are reasonable, and schedules are available online.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Rapid City West Blvd Black Hills

Day trips

Deadwood

35 miles • Half day to full day

A historic gold rush town with a rich Wild West heritage. Deadwood offers a variety of historical sites, casinos, and entertainment options.

Custer State Park

30 miles • Full day

A beautiful state park with scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a large herd of bison and offers a variety of outdoor activities.

Wind Cave National Park

45 miles • Full day

A unique national park known for its extensive cave system and surface features. The park offers cave tours, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Festivals

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally • August Days of '76 Rodeo • July

Pro tips

Visit Mount Rushmore early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
Check for special events and festivals before planning your trip.
Explore the Black Hills National Forest for stunning scenic drives and hiking trails.
Try local specialties like chislic and bison dishes.
Use the Rapid Ride bus service for convenient and affordable transportation around the city.