Discover the Black Hills like never before with a fully private, 8-hour scenic tour featuring Mt. Rushmore, Sylvan Lake, and more. Customize your trip with personal stops and enjoy local wildlife encounters along the way.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking at stops but some brief hikes can be included.
Wildlife
History
The Black Hills region holds deep significance for Native American tribes and was a critical area during the Gold Rush era.
Conservation
Tours with Black Hills Adventure Tours prioritize low-impact travel and support local conservation efforts to protect natural habitats.
Black Hills Adventure Tours
Discover the Black Hills like never before with a fully private, 8-hour scenic tour featuring Mt. Rushmore, Sylvan Lake, and more. Customize your trip with personal stops and enjoy local wildlife encounters along the way.
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 layered clothing
Weather can change quickly in the Black Hills, so dressing in layers ensures comfort throughout your day.
Carry a refillable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially during summer hikes and outdoor stops.
Arrive early for better parking
Popular sites like Mt. Rushmore can get busy; arriving early helps secure convenient parking and avoids crowds.
Use sunscreen and sunglasses
Protect yourself from the sun’s rays, especially during mid-day excursions in open areas.
Comfortable walking shoes
Ideal for walking short distances at scenic viewpoints and trail areas.
Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)
Protects you from sun exposure during open outdoor segments.
summer
Light jacket or fleece
Keeps you warm during cooler mornings and evenings.
spring|fall
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing opportunities on the tour.