The Black Hills was one of my favorite places we explored on a long road trip out west this past July. There is so much to see, all packed within a reasonable driving distance. As I learned more about how the area was shaped, I had a much deeper appreciation for each breathtaking view.

You can see from the map that you can travel between Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park within an hour and the bonus is you can take one of two scenic drives. These roads were thoughtfully laid out by South Dakota Governor Peter Norbeck back in 1905. This man had an incredible vision for preserving the area’s significant beauty and creating a huge tourism industry. You read his name a lot as you stop at the many overlooks and points of interest along the way. You can read more about the history of the park on their site but let’s get into the photos!