BLACK HILLS & BADLANDS REGION Photo by Janine Kentfield Miner Brewing Concert Lawn 1880 Train’s Steam Locomotive Family Friendly Biking on George S. Mickelson Trail DISCOVER THE HEART OF HILL CITY Endless adventures are as close as your cabin’s back door in Hill City. Surrounded by lakes, campgrounds, woodsy resorts, marinas, hiking, biking and ATV trails, Hill City is your hub for it all. This picturesque town in the Hills is only minutes away from the George S. Mickelson Trail and nearby iconic attractions like Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial® and Custer State Park. Founded in 1877, the early years of the gold rush brought miners to the Hill City area. Today, this central location in the Hills, picturesque Main Street and charm-filled town make Hill City a favorite destination. all skill levels find it approachable. Several trails will lead you to the historic fire lookout tower perched atop the peak, providing a five-state panoramic view. The hike takes about four hours round-trip and is well worth the time and effort. The most popular route to the top begins at Sylvan Lake, follows Trail #9 along a leisurely stroll through the pine forest and becomes more strenuous closer to the summit. SHOPS AND GALLERIES Downtown Hill City is dotted with galleries and shops, including The Handbag Store, which is aptly named for its enormous selection of handbags, wallets and coin purses. From name brands to new brands, you’ll find classic, upscale and down-to-earth styles. You’ll also find unique vendors like the Beef Jerky Outlet, where you can discover the highest quality USDA approved jerky. You’ll be amazed at all the varieties and flavors of jerky and snacks this store holds. BLACK ELK PEAK For spectacular views, head for Black Elk Peak, south of Hill City. This hiking destination is nestled in a designated wilderness area surrounded by the Black Hills National Forest. One of the most popular and Black Hills must-do hikes, the summit reaches 7,242 feet, the highest point in South Dakota. At the top, check out the historic stone fire tower and the magnificent sights of the surrounding landscape. The summit is only accessible by hiking or on horseback, and the moderately difficult trail is around 7 miles round trip. Getting to the top doesn’t require any technical climbing skills, so hikers of 80 // #DiscoverBlackHills Hill City Continued on Page 82
South Dakota Vacation Guide South Dakota Vacation Guide South Dakota Vacation Guide 2020: Page 80
