1.  Go spelunking – There are many caves in the Black Hills such as Rushmore Cave, Jewel Cave and Wind Cave.  They offer such wonderful protection from the elements that you will not even be able to tell what the weather is doing outside.  Most offer walking tours through the caverns.  Be sure to call ahead of time however, as many require reservations and offer specific times that tours are available.

2.  Find a restaurant – Rapid City and the Black Hills have many places to sit down indoors and enjoy a fantastic meal.  Be adventurous and take in some local flavors of bison, Indian tacos, or perhaps a walleye fillet.  If you really want a unique experience, attend a chuck wagon dinner show.  These include western entertainment, metal chow dishes, and cowboy cuisine.

3.  Visit a museum or art gallery – Hill City has no shortage of the arts.  From the trains at the South Dakota State Railroad Museum to the dinosaur bones at the Black Hills Institute, you are sure to be entertained and maybe even learn something new.  The town also has several art galleries to stroll, featuring local artists who capture their surroundings in a way that is true to their unique culture.

4.  Go see giant rock carvings – Even in the rain both Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial offer indoor options.  Explore the museums and watch the history of each carving in an informational movie offered several times daily.  Both also have gift shops and restaurants right on site for a trinket or bite to eat.  Both monuments are visible from viewing terraces, however, in bad weather the carvings are sometimes obstructed by low lying clouds.

5.  Go swimming – The Southern Black Hills hold many natural hot springs.  The town of Hot Springs is home to Evans Plunge, the World’s Largest Natural Warm Water Indoor Swimming Pool.  Try the water slides or just relax in the 87 degree naturally heated mineral water pool.

No matter what your preference for a rainy day, there is plenty to do in the Black Hills if bright sunshine is not in the forecast.  When the sun does come out, there are an abundance of hiking trails and outdoor attractions.  The climate is classified as semi-arid so those gloomy days do not generally last long periods of time.  If it happens to still be raining when you climb into your tent for the night, what better way to fall asleep than to be surrounded by the sound of raindrops and nature.

The northern Black Hills climate is also suitable for the healthy and abundant growth of numerous varieties of grapes. That’s not to mention a surplus of flavorful, native fruits that make Black Hills wines uniquely local. Wild plums, apples, buffalo berries, chokecherries, rhubarb, raspberries, and crab apples speckle the landscape of awe-inspiring mountains and thick Ponderosa Pine forests.

Highway 16 provides a scenic roadway that carries you through the center of the Black Hills’ wine country. This drive is for avid sightseers who don’t mind a little meandering through appealing wilderness and breathtaking rock formations. All in all, it’s an ideal way to journey through the beautiful Black Hills region made for perfect romantic weekend getaways.

As you make your way through a variety of interesting Black Hills attractions, keep the following fruitful pit stops in mind:

Naked Winery of the Black Hills

When you’re ready to shake things up, head off to the Naked Winery where they dress their grapes up in risqué labels. Read the fun, and somewhat badly-behaved, wine descriptions that “aim to tease,” as their tagline promises. While most of their wines are made from grapes of the North West, this is one fun stop with locations near Hill City and Custer. Naked Winery offers several varieties of wine preferences, including reds, whites, pinks, and fruit wines, to make up one of the naughtiest Black Hills attractions.

Visit Naked Winery

Prairie Berry Winery of the Black Hills

Prairie Berry Winery is a family owned and operated facility with a family history of winemaking. With a convenient central location on the outskirts of Hill City, tourists and locals flock all year round to join in celebrating five generations of award winning wines. With 15+ grape, honey, and fruit-infused brands that are offered for both tasting and sale, there’s a little something for all tastes at Prairie Berry!

Visit Prairie Berry

Stone Faces Winery of the Black Hills

Stone Faces Winery is only a short trip away from your first stop—in fact; it’s just down the road from Naked Winery and Prairie Berry! Stone Faces is a newcomer to the Black Hills winery scene—yet in its short time in operation, it’s proved its grapes to be a fierce competitor for local and imported tastes. As an added draw, Stone Faces Winery uses distinctive and inventive labels to showcase the flavors, bodies, and aromas to be found inside their bottles. In addition, the winery is housed in a charming little abode that speaks volumes of the location’s attraction and appeal.

Visit Stone Faces

Belle Joli’ Winery of the Black Hills

According to their website, the Belle Joli’ Winery boasts “South Dakota-made wine… made for wine drinkers.” Owned and operated by Jackson Winery and Vineyards, these delicate tastes are pressed from grapes grown on 20 acres of fertile land on the Belle Fourche River. Once harvested, the raw product is crafted into delicious bottles at the winery in Deadwood, SD. To visit the actual vineyard near Belle Fourche, a reservation must be made. However, the winery location in Deadwood features a tasting room for those merely stopping through for a refreshing glass of white or red to cleanse their palette.

Visit Belle Joli’

If you’re looking for a romantic mid west getaway, why not surprise your significant other with a wine tasting weekend in the Black Hills? Make your getaway complete with a stay at Crooked Creek Resort in a cozy cabin, perfect for snuggling after a day of sight seeing. Or, for a more outdoor adventure, stay in a tent next to a babbling brook and let the sounds of nature carry you away.

Custer State Park offers premier hiking opportunities including the popular Harney Peak hike. There are four different trail heads for the hike ranging from 2-5 hours hiking time. Though most of the trails do begin in Custer State Park, they enter the Black Elk Wilderness and Black Hills National Forest, so it is important to abide by the rules of the land. The hike is well worth your time and climb as an elevation of 7,242 ft. provides a sense of achievement along with breathtaking views.
If climbing isn’t your style, the Grace Coolidge Walk-In Fishing Area Trail is a wonderful experience. The one-way 2.8 mile trail follows Grace Coolidge Creek and finishes at Center Lake. Be sure to bring your fishing pole as there are excellent fishing opportunities along the way. This is a wonderful hike during the summer months as the many creek crossings are rejuvenating and refreshing. Grace Coolidge Walk-In is a relaxing and enjoyable hike that is suitable for children and those who aren’t quite up for an extreme challenge.

Sunday Gulch Trail is tucked away behind Sylvan Lake and sinks into a granite canyon followed by waterfalls over steep boulders. Note that forging this trail should only be exercised during the summer months, as winter snow and ice remains packed deeply until June. This is a difficult hike at times as you will find yourself scrimmaging over boulders and climbing steep hillsides, however; the scenery is simply amazing. Wear sturdy shoes and/or boots on this trail and enjoy what nature has to offer.

If you are looking for a good old fashion back country trail, French Creek is a 12-mile hike with approximately 42 creek crossings. The trail dissipates after the first two miles and hikers are left to follow the creek as a trail guideline. Downstream you will come across “the narrows” where the canyon encloses and you will be forced to either climb the canyon cliff or swim through the creek for a short distance. Flora and fauna and the transformation in geological formations in this region are impeccable. Hiking the French Creek Trail is experiencing hiking in the Black Hills at its very best.

Preparations and Cautions

Remember you are in South Dakota where weather frequently changes on a moment’s notice. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you begin your adventures. Hail and severe weather often rise without notice during mid-afternoons in the Black Hills so it is best to plan your hike morning to late morning or late afternoon into early evening. Pack rain gear, plenty of water, bug spray, a first aid kit, and always remember to tell others where you are venturing in the wilderness. Cellular phone reception is spotty at best in most remote locations, so do not rely on your phone to get you out of a bind. Ticks are a common and do carry disease; be sure to wear pants (preferably with bottoms tucked into stockings), long sleeves and a cap.
We share the Black Hills with humans and creatures alike.

Do not approach buffalo when hiking in Custer State Park. They are dangerous and will charge if provoked. Mountain lions live in abundance in the hills, however; you would be lucky to see one on your hike. They are nocturnal beings and very reclusive, yet, in the rare instance you come across a lion there are precautions you should take. Don’t run or crouch, doing so will stimulate the lion’s instinct to chase. Instead, make yourself appear larger by raising arms, opening your jacket, and throwing rocks and/or stones. Make eye contact, speak in a firm voice, and slowly wave arms. This will convince the lion you are not prey and potentially a predator. In the extremely rare situation of an attack, fight back with any objects you may have and try to remain standing.

Above all, when hiking in the Black Hills, enjoy the beauty and surroundings and tread lightly. There are plenty of hikes to choose from that fit the most physically active to the one who enjoys a stroll through the woods. This jewel of South Dakota offers man hikes and an abundance of beauty.

The George S. Mickelson Trail is a 109 mile packed gravel path that stretches almost the entire length of the Black Hills, from Deadwood in the north to Edgemont in the south on an abandoned railway line, along with an additional nine miles of branch trails. This picturesque path includes four tunnels, more than 100 converted railroad bridges, and spectacular views of the forest and granite outcroppings. In 1998 efforts were completed to convert this once functional Burlington Northern operated railway line into trails maintained by the South Dakota Fame, Fish and Parks Commission. The trail is named after George S. Mickelson, the South Dakota governor who assisted in spearheading the project.

There are a variety of activities to take advantage of on the trail, other than hiking. In addition to Hill City, the Mickelson Trail also passes through the small towns of Deadwood and Custer, where bicycle rentals and horseback trail riding outfitters are available.

The entire length of the trail still meets railroad standards for grade, so most of it does not exceed 4% grade, however, there are parts that are considered strenuous, so a bit of pre-planning depending on your individual needs should be considered. The trail has 15 different trail heads that offer parking, water and restroom facilities. Some of the trailheads offer small picnic shelters.

Along the Mickelson Trail, there is a good chance that you will come across some South Dakota wildlife. Care should be taken if an encounter happens, as some can be dangerous. Mountain lions, rattlesnakes and big horn sheep can be aggressive if startled. There are also free range cattle that can be found on or crossing the trail that could also become aggressive or spooked to a stampede if they are frightened. You may also catch a glimpse of deer, elk, turkeys and beavers which are generally more elusive of humans and more apt to hide upon your passing.

The Mickelson Trail holds several racing events annually, including the Deadwood-Mickelson Trail Marathon and the Run Crazy Horse Marathon. For bicyclists, the annual Mickelson Trail Trek is a three day ride that covers almost the entire expanse of the trail.

There is a small fee for a trail pass that you may purchase for the day, or you may purchase an annual pass. These can be obtained at self service stations along the trail, from authorized vendors, or online.

Crooked Creek Resort is located just outside of Hill City, right next to the Mickelson Trail. If you are looking for a place to stay with full trail access and a variety of accommodations, check out www.crookedcreeksd.com for details.

All of our single and double queen rooms have outdoor access, a bathroom with a shower tub, ac, heat, flat screen TV, cable, WI-fi and a great view. Rooms are pet free and non-smoking.

Book by March 31st 2013 and receive a pancake breakfast for your entire stay!

Nestled just outside of Hill City in the center of the Black Hills, Crooked Creek offers stunning views of the lush Ponderosa pines and a babbling brook runs right through the center of the property.

The Black Hills resort boasts fabulous outdoor spaces to host wedding ceremonies and receptions. Brides and grooms can choose an intimate wooded area for their ceremony – or a lush green grassy overlook of the creek. With abundant nature in the background, each wedding ceremony is sure to have the unique, rustic feel of a Black Hills wedding.

Also at the resort, there are two excellent pavilion shelters for smaller and larger receptions. One pavilion has full-kitchen amenities available. The smaller pavilion has a stove/oven and refrigerator. Catering can also be provided at an additional cost. There are also many lodging options your guests can choose from to stay over night.

Located near Hill City, S.D., Crooked Creek is central to many Black Hills attractions. Mount Rushmore National Memorial is within just a few miles, and Crazy Horse Memorial is a picturesque 12 miles to the south. Custer State Park and Badlands National Park are also close within the region.

Travelers coming into the area for a wedding at Crooked Creek can fly into Rapid City Regional Airport, which provides a shuttle service to the resort.

Guests can stay at the newly remodeled Country Inn Motel, which offers one or two queen bed rooms, or in a cabin located within the campground area. For the more adventurous guests, there are RV and tent campsites also available within the facility.

At the Crooked Creek Resort, the bride and groom can stay in a room at the Country Inn, or in a full size cabin. Planning and booking in advance will ensure top choices for rooms and other facilities at the resort. Group rates are available.

Some of the cabins at Crooked Creek have air conditioning, flat screen tv’s, kitchen and bathroom facilities and fabulous views. The cabins come in a variety of styles with a variety of amenities to suit the individual needs of your wedding guests. There are even Tipi’s for those considering a true Black Hills experience!

While staying at the resort, guests can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, cave exploration, horseback riding, and water sports in the area. The resort also has a pool, arcade, bath houses, and laundry facility.

The staff at Crooked Creek Resort can supply guests with a full list of activities and entertainment – from live music to movies to shopping to miniature golf – all located within a short distance of the resort.

Whether it’s penned in a journal, fastened to the fridge with a magnet, or logged safely away in your memory bank, chances are good that you’ve devised for yourself a list of things you’d like to see and do while here on earth. Do you want to travel abroad and experience unfamiliar cultures? Or maybe you’d like witness the broad and diverse countryside of your own home nation, here in the United States… for there’s no country as culturally colorful and diverse as this one!

A popular vacation destination, the Black Hills offers many activities and sights that will be forever imbedded in your memory. A great way to get there is in the comfort of an RV. This allows you the luxury of your home away from home, and the freedom of having the road at your fingertips.

Here are some thoughts to get you started on that bucket list item:

Get Wheels! Choosing an RV to take you across the country is like choosing a summer home. Make sure it’s comfortable and spacious enough to accommodate all of your travelers. RVs can either be rented or purchased, new or used. Prepare yourself for the “RV hunt” by making a list of must-haves before hitting lots and test-driving vehicles. Necessary amenities include a bathroom, kitchen, sitting room, and plenty of sleeping and storage space. Also consider how you will get around when you reach your destination. Will you tow a car? Do you plan to use a bicycle? Be sure that the RV you choose can accommodate your long term as well as short term transportation needs.

Stock your RV. While you’re out looking for the perfect mobile summer home, start making an RV camping trip planner master list of all of the necessities you’ll need to pack on board to get you through the voyage. This includes clothing, toiletries, onboard food and drink, activities for long driving stretches, etc.

Go! All too often, we find ourselves bogged down by the everyday grind, wishing that we were in a position to just get up and go! Kiss reality goodbye for the time being and spend some time taking in life from a different perspective—from the road!

If you decide to strike out and tour the country, make sure the beautiful and deeply historical Black Hills of western South Dakota are on your list. When you arrive, we hope you’ll come visit us at Crooked Creek Resort and tell us about all you’ve seen while on the road. With RV camping sites, tent sites, cabins and hotel rooms, the Crooked Creek Resort is the complete outdoor experience with picturesque granite mountain views and Ponderosa pine panoramas.

Bucket list items only get checked off by those who are determined to make them happen. When traveling in an RV the journey meets the destination. Save, plan, prepare, and perhaps most importantly – go!

As the holidays tend to draw close families together, distant relatives often miss the opportunity to reunite. Having a family reunion allows adequate time for gathering relatives far away, an idea that may seem out of reach. Although the process of planning a family reunion may appear overwhelming, Michele Olson, General Manager at Crooked Creek Resort, a popular Black Hills family vacation resort, offers these simple tips for planning a family vacation.

1. Determine the details of the family vacation such as who is invited, when the reunion will be take place, how long it will be, and where it will be located.
2. Establish a reunion budget and coordinators for finance, lodging, entertainment and games, memorabilia, photography and video etc.
3. Choose a kid friendly vacation that fits all family types, offers a variety of activities, and considers families’ preferences such as lodging accommodations and entertainment opportunities.
4. Use a social networking site to communicate clearly, quickly, and easily with all family members throughout the planning a family reunion process.
5. Enjoy an unforgettable family reunion vacation, creating memories and sharing experiences with the people that have made your family who they are today.

Olson explained that having a variety of family entertainment and lodging options helps satisfy all family members and creates a relaxing central meeting point of the family reunion.

“Families can enjoy a peaceful morning together at the resort, enjoy a Mount Rushmore tour, hike Harney Peak or explore the Mickelson Trail and then return to the campground and relax in the pool before cozying up around a campfire with relatives.” She continued to explain that with the Country Inn Motel, tipi campsites, and tenting sites, every family can choose the atmosphere that best fits their families’ style, but still be close to the members of their extended family that they may not get to see on a regular basis.

Using these tips to help ease stress and organize your family reunion accommodations to surely create a memorable family adventure that everyone will enjoy.

• Plan the camping trip together – let the kids be involved and make decisions. This will keep them excited and build anticipation for the trip.
o Decide on places to go – consider interests, outdoor experience and children’s ages. Do a bit of research and make a list with photos for the kids to rank by ‘must do’ and ‘if we have time.’
o Choose activities such as swimming, horseback riding and hiking.
o Plan and shop for your meals. This will save you time and money.
o Prepare and pack the equipment and supplies.

• Try a backyard campout before you go for the first time. This will help prepare the kids for what to expect.
o Teach the kids how to set up a tent.
o Try some outdoor cooking – there are many recipes that you can make over a campfire other than hotdogs and marshmallows!
o Experience a night outdoors in sleeping bags.
o Plan a few activities such as storytelling or board games.
o Search the sky for constellations and shooting stars.
o Listen to the many night sounds and try to identify them.

• Try to experience outdoor activities with your kids
o Teach them about safety and to respect nature.
o Teach outdoor skills and outdoor ethics. Thing such as ‘take out what you take in’ are simple, yet important, concepts.
o Make camp chores fun. Collect firewood, hammer tent stakes, help set up chairs – kids will enjoy feeling helpful.
o Take a small day hike in the woods at a local park. Take time to point out different flowers, leaves and wildlife along the way.
o Visit a nature center or observatory.
o Read books about camping and the outdoors.
o Go on a flashlight walk after dark.

Once you have had some camping ‘practice,’ when the time comes to take your trip, do not underestimate what you will need. Be sure to bring extra clothing and shoes – the kids will get wet and extremely dirty. Also pack plenty of warm clothing – mountain air can be chilly, especially after the sun goes down. Dressing in layers is the best option, as the daytime temperatures can be quite warm. Also remember to bring bug spray and sunscreen. Most of the day you will probably be outdoors and will want protection from the hot sun and pesky bugs. It is also a good idea to bring a swimsuit. Even if you are not planning on swimming, if you happen upon a creek or stream, it will save you a wet outfit. Also pack a small first aid kit for any accidents, bumps and bruises. Rain gear should be included, as well as activities for indoors in case of uncooperative weather.

When going camping for the first time, take your time getting there. Make lots of stops on the way there and on the way home. Do not plan on staying more than two or three nights, and be sure to bring comforts from home such as special toys, blankets and pillows. Bring lots of snacks and plenty of drinks to stay hydrated.

Most of all, enjoy the time and make memories that will last your children a lifetime. Take plenty of photos, and even consider letting the kids use a disposable camera that they can snap whatever they would like during the trip. These can be incorporated into a scrapbook or photo album that everyone will enjoy for years to come.