Are you looking for a road trip that’s packed with outdoor adventures, stunning landscapes, and family-friendly fun, all without breaking the bank? Rapid City, South Dakota, is the perfect base for exploring the Black Hills region, with tons of activities that are easy on your wallet.

Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, spotting wildlife, or enjoying local eats, this road trip offers a little bit of everything. Plus, using your credit card points and miles, you can save even more on accommodations, car rentals, and activities.

Here’s how you can plan a budget-friendly adventure to Rapid City and the Black Hills, including easy hikes, great wildlife, and wallet-friendly spots to eat!

Where to Stay: Hyatt Place Rapid City / Downtown

Stay at Hyatt Place Rapid City / Downtown, offering a fantastic location for exploring all that Rapid City has to offer. Book a spacious room (two queens and pull out couch) for 8,000 points per night (Category 2) during peak season.

If you have Hilton points, check out Tru by Hilton Rapid City Rushmore, which is available for 60,000 points per night.

By using your credit card points to book accommodations, you’re already saving money that can be used to explore even more of the Black Hills!

Top Outdoor Attractions and Hiking Trails in the Black Hills

1. Custer State Park

Custer State Park is a must-see destination just an hour from Rapid City. It’s perfect for wildlife viewing and hiking, with trails suitable for all skill levels.

• Sylvan Lake Shore Trail (Easy): This 1.1-mile loop around Sylvan Lake offers breathtaking views of granite peaks and is ideal for families. It’s also a great spot for a picnic.
• Black Elk Peak Trail (Moderate): For a more challenging hike, the 7-mile round trip to Black Elk Peak rewards you with panoramic views of the Black Hills. It’s a bit strenuous, but totally worth it!
• Spillway Creek Trail (Easy): A 1.5-mile trail through forests and meadows, offering views of the creek and surrounding wildlife. Perfect for a relaxing day out.

Wildlife Spotting: Expect to see bison, pronghorn, mule deer, wild turkeys, and bighorn sheep. Keep an eye out for elk and wild burros on the wildlife loop.

2. Mount Rushmore National Memorial

A visit to Mount Rushmore is a must! The Presidential Trail (0.6-mile loop) offers great views of the monument, and it’s a moderate hike suitable for families. Plus, parking is just $10.

Wildlife Spotting: The area around Mount Rushmore is home to red-tailed hawks, smaller mammals like squirrels and chipmunks, and the occasional deer.

3. Wind Cave National Park

Known for both its subterranean beauty and above-ground landscapes, Wind Cave National Park is a hidden gem.

• Rankin Ridge Trail (Moderate): A 1.3-mile hike offering sweeping views of the Black Hills and surrounding prairie.
• Red Shirt Table Trail (Easy): A 1.5-mile trail that provides stunning views of the park’s grasslands, where you might spot bison and mule deer.
• Cave Loop Trail (Easy): A 0.5-mile loop around the cave’s entrance, offering scenic views and a chance to see wildlife like wild turkeys and prairie dogs.

Wildlife Spotting: The park is home to bison herds, bighorn sheep, deer, and prairie dogs. It’s a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts!

4. Badlands National Park

Badlands is known for its dramatic landscapes of sharp peaks and deep canyons. Here are a few top hiking trails:

• Notch Trail (Moderate): A 1.5-mile hike that includes a climb up a ladder and offers amazing views of the Badlands formations.
• Window Trail (Easy): A 0.25-mile paved loop with spectacular views. It’s perfect for families looking for a quick hike.
• Fossil Exhibit Trail (Easy): A 0.25-mile walk through an area with fascinating fossil exhibits and interpretive signs.

Wildlife Spotting: The park is home to bison, bighorn sheep, mule deer, black-footed ferrets, and prairie dogs. Birdwatchers will love spotting golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, and prairie falcons.

Kid-Friendly Activities and Junior Ranger Program

Keep the little ones engaged with the Junior Ranger Program at Badlands National Park. They can complete fun activities to learn about wildlife, geology, and history, earning a Junior Ranger badge along the way (a free souvener).

Other kid-friendly activities include:

• Wildlife Loop Road: A scenic drive through Custer State Park, perfect for wildlife spotting.
• Minuteman Missile National Historic Site: A quick educational stop to learn about Cold War history and missile silos.

Cheap Eats Along the Way

You don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy delicious food in the Black Hills. Here are a few budget-friendly spots to check out:

• The Colonial House Restaurant & Bar: Cozy, classic comfort food with great prices.
• Sanaa’s 2 Mediterranean Street Food: Dishes like falafel, wraps, and hummus.
• Tally’s Silver Spoon: We love breakfast, and you’ll love this place.
• Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews: They offer a variety of burgers, fries, and craft beers that the whole family will enjoy.

If you’re planning to hike, consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots in Custer State Park or Badlands National Park.

Hidden Gems and Other Points of Interest

While you’re in the Black Hills, don’t miss these hidden gems:

• Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary: Take a guided tour to see wild horses roam the plains.
• Crazy Horse Memorial: An ongoing, massive sculpture that honors Native American heritage—it’s a unique stop in the region.

Final Thoughts

A road trip to Rapid City and the Black Hills offers the perfect combination of outdoor adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and fun for the whole family—all on a budget. From hiking Black Elk Peak to spotting bison in Custer State Park, there’s no shortage of exciting activities. Plus, by using your credit card points, you can save even more, making this trip affordable and unforgettable.

So pack your bags, grab your gear, and head to Rapid City for your next budget-friendly adventure. Remember, when you book accommodations, activities, and more using my affiliate links, you’re supporting Points and Miles Teachers at no extra cost to you. Ready to open your next credit card and start earning rewards for your next adventure? Reach out to me on Instagram or visit my “Best Offers” page to get started!

Pro Tip

Make sure to check for point redemption opportunities when booking your accommodation and activities! By using credit card rewards, you can save big on your trip to the Black Hills, ensuring you have more to spend on making memories.