What to Do in the Black Hills of South Dakota – Top Attractions, Scenic Views, and Unforgettable Helicopter Tours

The Black Hills of South Dakota are one of America’s most underrated gems. Rich with history, brimming with natural beauty, and packed with unique attractions, this region is a bucket-list destination for outdoor lovers, families, and adventure seekers alike.

From iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial to thrilling experiences like helicopter tours of the Black Hills, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do. In this guide, we’ll explore the top attractions in the Black Hills—and highlight one of the most extraordinary ways to experience it all: from the sky.

🚁 Take in the Black Hills from Above with a Helicopter Tour

If you’re searching for the best way to experience the Black Hills, a scenic helicopter tour is hard to beat. Flying high above the pines and granite peaks, you’ll witness breathtaking views that most visitors never see. Whether you’re on a quick 10-minute flight or a deluxe 30+ minute aerial adventure, these tours offer a once-in-a-lifetime perspective on South Dakota’s wild beauty.

Top Helicopter Tour Providers in the Black Hills:

Black Hills Aerial Adventures – One of the most popular aerial tour companies in the region, offering flights over Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, and even the Badlands. With multiple locations throughout the area, they’re a top choice for helicopter rides in the Black Hills.
Rushmore Helicopters – Conveniently located near Keystone, SD, Rushmore Helicopters specializes in scenic flights over Mount Rushmore and the surrounding hills. Perfect for visitors short on time but craving a unique view.
Badlands Helicopters – Offering tours over the dramatic landscapes of Badlands National Park and eastern reaches of the Black Hills, this is a top pick for those looking to expand their adventure beyond the forested peaks.

🏞️ Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

No guide to the Black Hills is complete without Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This American icon is carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore and depicts Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

Pro Tip: Combine your visit with a helicopter flight over Mount Rushmore for a stunning aerial view that few get to experience.

🐂 Explore Custer State Park

Custer State Park spans over 71,000 acres and is home to abundant wildlife, including a herd of over 1,400 bison. Visitors can drive the famous Wildlife Loop Road, hike to Black Elk Peak (South Dakota’s highest point), or paddle across Sylvan Lake. The park is also visible on many helicopter tour routes—adding a new layer of awe to its natural beauty.

🏛️ Witness the Majesty of Crazy Horse Memorial

Still in progress but already immense in scale, Crazy Horse Memorial is the largest mountain carving in the world. It honors the legendary Lakota leader and stands as a powerful tribute to Native American heritage. Several helicopter tour routes include this massive sculpture for a jaw-dropping view from the sky.

🕵️‍♂️ Step Back in Time in Deadwood

For Wild West enthusiasts, Deadwood, South Dakota, is a must-visit. Walk the same streets as legendary gunslingers like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. With historic reenactments, museums, saloons, and a vibrant nightlife, this town is rich in frontier charm.

🌌 Go Underground in Wind Cave and Jewel Cave

The Black Hills aren’t just impressive on the surface. Beneath them lie two of the world’s longest and most complex cave systems:

Wind Cave National Park – Known for its rare boxwork formations and vast network of underground passages.
Jewel Cave National Monument – Famous for glittering calcite crystals and expansive rooms.

Both caves offer guided tours that make for unforgettable subterranean adventures.

🚗 Cruise Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

Drive through the heart of the Black Hills along Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, where waterfalls, towering cliffs, and lush forests create a tranquil escape. Don’t miss Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls—two of the region’s most picturesque spots.

In fall, this canyon becomes a corridor of fiery foliage, making it one of the best places for autumn leaf peeping in South Dakota.

✈️ Why a Helicopter Tour Should Top Your Itinerary

Still wondering whether a helicopter tour is worth it? Here’s what makes it a top-tier experience in the Black Hills:

Unparalleled Views – Capture stunning aerial photos of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and the Badlands.
Time Efficient – See multiple attractions in under an hour.
Exclusive Access – Fly over places you can’t reach by road or trail.
Memory-Making Experience – It’s one of the most unique and unforgettable things to do in South Dakota.

Whether you choose Black Hills Aerial Adventures, Rushmore Helicopters, or Badlands Helicopters, you’re guaranteed a flight filled with breathtaking moments.

Final Thoughts: The Black Hills Like You’ve Never Seen Them

The Black Hills of South Dakota offer an amazing mix of nature, culture, and adventure. While driving through the hills and hiking the trails will always be a highlight, seeing the Black Hills by helicopter elevates your trip to another level—literally.

For the ultimate itinerary, combine ground-level exploration with a sky-high perspective, and experience the very best that South Dakota has to offer.

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