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INTERIOR. Sprawling across some 244,000 acres, this national park preserves some of the country's most inhospitable terrain. Native Americans and early explorers alike knew of its perils, bestowing on it the name "bad." Even so, the area's beauty is unmistakeable, as the rugged landscape, expansive plains, and multi-hued rock formations prove. The region is also an abundant repository of fossils, which have given scientists a new perspective on evolution and biology. Visitors may best tour the park on Route 240 (32 miles long); other portions of the preserve are available to hikers. The remote lands are absolutely worth exploring, but nature lovers should plan carefully. A handful of visitors centers are well-equipped to orient folks about the Badlands' history and allure.
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RAPID CITY. This ancient chain of rugged granite peaks, swathed in evergreens, does indeed appear black from a distance, which is why the Lakota Sioux called it "paha sapa," or "black hills." Extending across a million acres, the national forest also stretches into eastern Wyoming. The terrain's natural beauty is rife with meadows, lakes, streams, and caves, and a bounty of wildlife roams the territory. Trails for mountain bikers, hikers, and horses offer opportunity for recreation, as do campgrounds and picnic sites.
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CUSTER. Best known for its resident herds of roaming bison, this 73,000-acre park offers not only gorgeous scenery but planned activities to boot. Plains and mountains are available to hike and explore, and scenic drives provide an easy way to observe the park's wild beauty. Resorts and campsites cater to visitors with varying needs, and rangers direct folks on nature tours and while panning for gold. Hayrides, campfire activities, and demonstrations of crafts and cooking delight guests as well.
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Dinosaur Park
Quincy St and Skyline Dr, Rapid City, SD · 605-394-4175
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RAPID CITY. In the tradition of slightly kitschy roadside art, this park offers a glimpse of early American tourism, courtesy of its life-sized dinosaur figures. Conceived of by a local academic during the Depression and dedicated in 1936, the dinosaurs were a project of the WPA. Constructed of iron pipe and concrete, the sturdy creatures have been a favorite of kids for decades now, and they're eminently climbable. The green-painted figures sit on a ridge above the city, easily visible from town. Within the reptile band are a T-rex, brontosaurus, stegasaurus, triceratops, and apatosaurus.
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CUSTER. Discovered in 1900 and named a national monument in 1908, this intricate cave boasts a wealth of delicately colored calcite crystals. These, along with other geological formations, mesmerize visitors who descend into the earth for a glimpse of nature's handiwork. Currently, 129 miles of the cave have been mapped, and speculation suggests that Jewel Cave is one of the world's longest such formations, extending well beyond these measurements. A variety of tours is available. Above ground is a lovely park.
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Memorial Park
8th and Omaha Sts, Rapid City, SD 57701 · 605-394-4175
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DOWNTOWN. After the devastating flood of 1972 roared through Rapid City, wiping out portions of the town, this park was created to commemorate both lives lost and the city's renewal. Set along the banks of Rapid Creek, the park offers plenty of open space, along with a beautiful rose garden. A water feature adds focus, and a band shell makes outdoor concerts a terrific experience. Other memorials honor city founders and war veterans, and fragments of the Berlin Wall stand as a reminder of freedom.
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HOT SPRINGS. You'll find no shortage of beauty at this park, either above ground or below. Up top, forest and prairies cover 28,000+ acres of terrain and play home to everything from prairie dogs to bison and coyotes. Miles of well-maintained hiking trails are also available. Down under, extensive caverns tempt visitors to stare in awe at rock and mineral formations, an underground lake, and other attractions. Discovered in 1881, Wind Cave was declared a national park in 1903. A variety of tours lets you experience the caverns according to your degree of interest.
Looking for some peace and quiet? An idyllic spot to relax and unwind? You've made it to the right category. Here, we list some of the most beautiful and functional parks in the city. Many provide jogging and cycling trails, picnic sites, and large, open areas for throwing a Frisbee or walking your dog.
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