Experience the Badlands like never before with a private, guided 6-hour hike near Rapid City, South Dakota. Explore unique geology, hidden trails, and enjoy a customized adventure with lunch included.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a reasonable fitness level to handle uneven terrain and several miles of hiking at a moderate pace.
Wildlife
History
The Badlands have been home to Native American tribes for thousands of years and contain significant fossil beds important to paleontology.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated paths to protect fragile rock formations and the surrounding grasslands that support native wildlife.
Black Hills Adventure Tours
Experience the Badlands like never before with a private, guided 6-hour hike near Rapid City, South Dakota. Explore unique geology, hidden trails, and enjoy a customized adventure with lunch included.
Black Hills Adventure Tours operates out of Rapid City, South Dakota, offering private guided tours across the Black Hills and Badlands. The company specializes in customizable experiences for small groups, families, and travelers seeking outdoor adventures and cultural insight. Tours include hikes, scenic drives, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding, bicycle rides on the Mickelson Trail, and open-air jeep safaris in Custer State Park.
Many itineraries highlight regional landmarks such as Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Sylvan Lake, Spearfish Canyon, Pactola Lake, and the Badlands National Park. The operator partners with local providers for specialized experiences, including Indigenous cultural programming through Tatanka Rez Tours. Private tours are timed to accommodate sunrise, midday, or sunset departures when available.
Meals, snacks, park fees, and equipment are included on select itineraries as described per trip, and guides provide local knowledge about geology, wildlife, and cultural history. Group sizes are kept intentionally small for a personalized experience and better access to hidden or less-crowded viewpoints. Transportation departs from Rapid City and can be arranged to meet guest needs.
Black Hills Adventure Tours emphasizes safety and local stewardship, following park regulations and guiding best practices. Reviews and features, such as being listed on The Adventure Collective, reflect a focus on guided, private exploration of Western South Dakota’s most iconic landscapes. Travelers interested in interpretive walks, active outdoor days, or culturally focused tours will find clear, bookable options tailored to varied interests and abilities. Bookings are typically arranged in advance to ensure availability and guide preparation.
Based In
Rapid City, SD
Gateway to the Black Hills
Tour Lengths
5.5–9 hrs
Half-day to full-day private tours
Private Tours
11 Experiences
Small-group, customizable trips
Top Destinations
Mt. Rushmore & Badlands
Iconic Black Hills landmarks
Reserve a guided tour from Rapid City today — check availability and secure a private guide.
Bring Plenty of Water
The Badlands can get very dry and hot—carry more water than you think you'll need.
Wear Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat; there’s little shade along the trails.
Choose Comfortable Hiking Footwear
Opt for sturdy shoes with good grip to navigate rocky and uneven terrain safely.
Bring a Camera or Smartphone
You’ll want to capture the stunning colors and geological formations throughout the hike.
Hydration Pack or Water Bottles
Ensures you stay hydrated throughout the hike, especially important in the dry, hot Badlands climate.
summer
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Protects your face and neck from intense sun exposure during the hike.
summer
Layers and Windbreaker
Allows you to adjust to changing temperatures and wind conditions common in the Badlands.
spring
Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Provides good support and traction on rocky and uneven terrain.