The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Aurora, Colorado to Rapid City, South Dakota

Are you planning a road trip from Aurora, Colorado to Rapid City, South Dakota? If yes, this post is perfect for you. This scenic drive is a great way to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains and explore the great plains of South Dakota. In this blog post, we'll give you a detailed list of some of the best places you should visit on this road trip. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.

The drive from Aurora, Colorado to Rapid City, South Dakota is approximately 430 miles that will take you around 6 to 7 hours. Before you hit the road, make sure to check your car for any issues and bring plenty of snacks and water. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

Top Places to See When Driving From Aurora, Colorado to Rapid City, South Dakota

1. Black Hills National Forest

Our first stop is the Black Hills National Forest that covers an area of 1.2 million acres. It is located in western South Dakota, and it is the perfect place to explore the natural beauty of the area. The forest is home to several hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic drives. One of the must-do things in the Black Hills National Forest is to drive the Needles Highway. It is a 14-mile scenic drive that takes you through narrow tunnels and the iconic Needle's Eye.

2. Mount Rushmore National Memorial

The Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a bucket list destination that should be on every traveler's list. It is located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, and it is widely known for its massive sculpture of the four American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The best time to visit the memorial is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to catch the sunrise or sunset.

3. Crazy Horse Memorial

The Crazy Horse Memorial is another impressive landmark near Rapid City, South Dakota. It is still under construction and will be the world's largest mountain carving when completed. The memorial is dedicated to the great Lakota warrior, Crazy Horse, and it is a symbol of the Native American culture and heritage. You can take a bus tour to reach the monument and explore the Indian Museum of North America.

4. Custer State Park

Custer State Park is one of the oldest and largest state parks in South Dakota. It covers an area of 71,000 acres and boasts of diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and scenic drives. One of the popular scenic drives in the park is the Wildlife Loop Road, where you can spot bison, elk, prairie dogs, and other animals in their natural habitat. The park also offers several outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and camping.

5. Chapel In The Hills

Our last stop is the Chapel In The Hills. It is a beautiful Norwegian-style stave church located in Rapid City, South Dakota. The chapel is a replica of the famous Borgund Stave Church in Norway and is surrounded by serene gardens and a prayer walk. If you're looking to experience some peace and quiet, visiting the Chapel In The Hills is a must-do activity.

Conclusion

This road trip from Aurora, Colorado to Rapid City, South Dakota is one of the most scenic drives in the country. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the vast plains of South Dakota, this trip will undoubtedly leave you breathless. Explore the natural wonders of South Dakota, visit historical landmarks, and take a trip back in time through the state's rich culture and heritage. Are you ready for an adventure? Pack your bags, hit the road, and go explore!