Top Places to See When Driving From Abilene, Texas to Rapid City, South Dakota
Are you planning a road trip from Abilene, Texas, to Rapid City, South Dakota, and wondering what sights to see along the way? Look no further! This route is full of stunning landscapes, unique city attractions, and historical landmarks. Buckle up and get ready to explore some of America's most beautiful destinations.
Before we dive into the list of top places to see, let's talk about the route itself. The drive from Abilene to Rapid City is approximately 1,100 miles and takes around 16-18 hours, depending on your stops along the way. It's recommended to split up the drive into multiple days, so you can fully enjoy the sights and avoid exhaustion. Now, let's get into the good stuff!
Top Places to See
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
The first must-see spot on your road trip is Palo Duro Canyon State Park, located just outside Amarillo, Texas. Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the United States and offers visitors breathtaking views of vibrant red rock formations. The park offers over 30 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as opportunities for fishing and camping. Don’t miss the park’s famous outdoor musical, TEXAS, which tells the story of the Lone Star State through song and dance.
Garden of the Gods, Colorado
As you make your way into Colorado, be sure to stop at the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This National Natural Landmark features magnificent red rock formations against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The park offers several hiking trails, along with rock climbing and mountain biking opportunities for the adventurous. For those looking for a more laid-back experience, take a scenic drive through the park and enjoy the views from the comfort of your car.
Mount Rushmore National Monument, South Dakota
No road trip through the Black Hills of South Dakota is complete without a stop at the iconic Mount Rushmore National Monument. Four of America’s most beloved presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln – are memorialized in magnificent stone sculptures. In addition to the famous mountain, the park also offers hiking trails, a museum, and a visitor center with exhibits and films about the monument’s history.
Badlands National Park, South Dakota
As you continue through South Dakota, make sure to check out Badlands National Park. This otherworldly landscape features dramatic canyons, towering spires, and vibrant rock formations. Visitors can drive along Scenic Byway 240 for breathtaking views of the park, or take one of the many hiking trails through the rugged terrain. Be on the lookout for wildlife such as bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep.
Crazy Horse Memorial, South Dakota
Last but not least on our list is the Crazy Horse Memorial, located just a few miles from Mount Rushmore. This massive sculpture, which is still a work in progress, honors the Lakota warrior Crazy Horse and his people. The statue is being carved into the side of a mountain and will be the largest sculpture in the world once completed. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Lakota people at the on-site museum and cultural center.
Conclusion
From the stunning red rocks of Palo Duro Canyon to the iconic faces of Mount Rushmore and the rugged terrain of Badlands National Park, a road trip from Abilene to Rapid City offers something for every type of traveler. So hit the road, take your time, and enjoy all the beauty and adventure this route has to offer. Happy travels!