Caves and Nature

Gateway to the Badlands

Located at Exits 150 and 152 along I-90, Kadoka derives is name from the Lakota Sioux and literally means "hole in the wall." This references the easy entrance into the spectacular but foreboding Badlands just west of town. This also gives Kadoka the distinction of being the "Gateway to the Badlands."

Kadoka offers year around services which include: 9 motels, 5 restaurants, 3 convenience stores / gas stations, 2 auto repair shops, 3 churches, bank, post office, medical clinic, veterinarian, hardware, feed and grocery stores, city park, swimming pool and a 9-hole sand green golf course.

Kadoka is the home of Badlands Petrified Gardens, which features South Dakota's largest exhibit of petrified trees and logs, plus pre-historic badlands fossils, and minerals native to the area. While in town, visit the Depot Museum, which holds local memorabilia and historical items from the area. Kadoka is also in the process of restoring the 100-year-old Pearl Hotel to its original state.

Just minutes away along I-90 take Exit 131 where the Badlands Loop Scenic Byway (SD Hwy 240), takes you through the heart of the Badlands National Park. The Badlands not only includes an eerie and mysterious landscape of sharp ridges and steep-walled canyons, but also the largest preserve of mixed-grass prairie in the National Park system. Numerous overlooks, hiking trails and the Ben Reifel Visitor Center are located along the 35-mile byway.

Gateway to the Black Hills

Welcome to Edgemont, South Dakota - the gateway to the Black Hills!

Located on the southwestern flank of the Black Hills, Edgemont is a charming community that offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in stunning natural surroundings. To the north of Edgemont on US 18, the mountains of the Black Hills abruptly rise 1,500 feet in two miles, providing a dramatic and breathtaking view.

George S. Mickelson Trail

Starting in Edgemont, this premier recreational trail spans 114 miles north to Deadwood, offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Black Hills.

Nearby Hot Springs

Travel 25 miles northeast on Hwy 18 to Hot Springs and enjoy the natural spring waters at Evans Plunge. Visit the Mammoth Site and Museum to uncover the ancient bones of woolly mammoths through ongoing paleontology digs.

Visit Edgemont, South Dakota, and explore the beauty and charm of the Black Hills. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, historic landmarks or simply a peaceful retreat, Edgemont offers something for everyone. Plan your next getaway today!

Unique Blend of Outdoor & City Life

Spearfish, a charming city in the Northern Black Hills, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, culture, and history. From the stunning natural beauty of Spearfish Canyon to the vibrant downtown area, Spearfish has something for everyone.

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

This 22-mile drive takes visitors through one of the most beautiful areas in the Black Hills, with breathtaking views of waterfalls, towering cliffs, and lush forests.

Annual Events

Spearfish hosts many fun-filled events throughout the year, such as the Black Hills Corvette Classic, Festival in the Park, and the Downtown Friday Nights music series.

Outdoor Activities

Spearfish offers year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, rock climbing, skiing, and more. Take a dip in the refreshing waters of Spearfish Creek or explore the Black Hills National Forest.

Downtown Area

The downtown area features unique shops, galleries, and restaurants housed in historic buildings. Don't miss the Matthews Opera House and Art Center, where you can see live shows and exhibits.

D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery and Archives

This free attraction features a historic fish hatchery, aquariums, and exhibits about Black Hills fish and wildlife.

Natural History Attractions

Interstate 90 travels through this scenic rural valley that stretches 25 miles between Rapid City and Sturgis. The villages of Piedmont and Black Hawk are along the route. Natural history attractions include a petrified forest, a crystal cave and geology-rich Little Elk Canyon. Local resorts and campgrounds cater to vacationers, turkey hunters, and outdoorsmen.

Discover Two Parks in One

Wind Cave National Park is a unique destination that offers visitors the opportunity to explore one of the longest and most complex caves in the world, as well as prairies, forests, and an abundance of wildlife. With its diverse array of experiences and stunning natural beauty, this national park provides visitors with endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Cave Tours

Explore the awe-inspiring beauty of Wind Cave, one of the most complex and unique caves in the world. Choose from a variety of guided tours that provide insight into the park's geologic history, as well as stunning views of its underground formations.

Wildlife Viewing

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Wind Cave National Park by observing the park's diverse array of wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, elk, coyotes, and prairie dogs. With over 30,000 acres of grasslands, forests, and canyons, the park is a haven for wildlife and provides opportunities for visitors to observe and learn more about these magnificent creatures.

Hiking

Experience the park's outstanding beauty and natural scenery on one of its stunning hiking trails. With over 30 miles of trails available, visitors can take their time exploring the cave's unique geologic formations or enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the Black Hills.

Cultural Experiences

Discover the park's rich cultural history by visiting the park's historic structures, such as the Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center and the Alkali Ridge Historic District. Visitors can learn about the area's rich history and the cultural significance of the cave and its surroundings.

Whether you're seeking an underground adventure or looking to explore the natural beauty of the Black Hills, Wind Cave National Park offers something for everyone. Plan a trip today and experience the stunning beauty and natural wonders of one of America's most unique national parks.

A Natural Wonder

Black Hills National Forest is a diverse and stunning natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. From its forested mountains and canyons to its crystal-clear lakes and streams, the forest offers an abundance of recreational opportunities and breathtaking scenery.

Hiking

Explore the forest's many trails and witness its natural beauty up close. With more than 450 miles of marked trails, visitors can experience everything from leisurely walks to challenging backcountry adventures.

Scenic Drives

Take a scenic drive through the forest and witness the stunning beauty of the Black Hills up close. From the famous Needles Highway to the more remote backcountry roads, the forest offers plenty of opportunities for leisurely drives and wildlife viewing.

Water Recreation

Black Hills National Forest is home to several beautiful lakes and streams that offer endless opportunities for water-based recreation. Whether you prefer fishing, kayaking, or swimming, the forest has something to offer for everyone.

Winter Sports

In the winter, the Black Hills National Forest transforms into a winter wonderland, with plenty of opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and downhill skiing at the nearby ski resorts.

Wildlife Viewing

Observe the forest's diverse wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, deer, and black bears. With over 1.2 million acres of stunning natural beauty, the Black Hills National Forest is one of the few remaining intact native ecosystems in the United States and provides a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife.

With its stunning natural beauty and diverse array of recreational opportunities, Black Hills National Forest is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. Plan a trip today and explore the breathtaking beauty of one of South Dakota's most beautiful natural wonders.

Stunning Underground Formations

Jewel Cave National Monument is a natural wonderland with some of the most awe-inspiring cave formations in the world. Visitors can explore miles of underground passages filled with sparkling calcite crystals, intricate calcite formations, and unique natural wonders.

Cave Tours

Experience the natural wonders of Jewel Cave by taking one of its guided tours, which range from easy walks to more challenging adventures. Discover the beauty of the cave's unique formations and learn about its ecology and geology during your tour.

Hiking

Take a hike on one of the park's many trails to experience the natural beauty and diverse wildlife that make up the Black Hills. The trails vary in length and difficulty, so visitors can find the perfect trail to suit their needs and interests.

Visitor Center

Stop by the visitor center to learn more about the park's history, geology, and ecology. Check out exhibits on the park's unique features and pick up souvenirs and local crafts from the gift shop.

Natural Wonders

Explore the unique cave formations and discover stunning underground formations, rare boxwork, and unique geological features.

Jewel Cave National Monument is an unforgettable destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and majesty of nature up close. With cave tours, scenic drives, hiking, and rich history waiting, it's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Black Hills of South Dakota.

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