Why I Prefer South Dakota Over Yellowstone

Custer State Park and the surrounding Black Hills have an atmosphere that feels calmer and more personal compared to the grandeur of Yellowstone. While Yellowstone can sometimes feel overwhelming with its vast size and constant streams of tourists, the Black Hills offer a more intimate experience. The trails are less crowded, the pace is slower, and it’s easier to find moments of solitude, allowing you to truly connect with nature.

Another South Dakota gem that left a lasting impression on me was Badlands National Park. The dramatic, otherworldly scenery is unlike anything I’ve seen in Yellowstone. Towering spires, deep canyons, and layered rock formations create a landscape that’s as awe-inspiring as it is unique. What really stood out was how easy it was to explore—short, accessible hikes and well-placed overlooks meant we could soak in the views without feeling rushed or crowded.

Both Yellowstone and Custer State Park are rich with wildlife, but in my experience, Custer provides more reliable and less stressful viewing opportunities. The park’s famous Wildlife Loop Road is home to large herds of bison, pronghorn antelope, elk, and even wild burros that come right up to your car. Unlike Yellowstone, where you might find yourself stuck in a traffic jam just to catch a glimpse of a bear or bison, Custer’s wildlife encounters feel more natural and unhurried.

The Black Hills region is a driver’s paradise. Roads like Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road provide breathtaking views of rugged granite spires, dense forests, and distant peaks. Add to that the engineered tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore in the distance, and you have a driving experience that’s as memorable as any hike. These routes are not only stunning but also more navigable and less congested than Yellowstone’s main thoroughfares.

Yellowstone is known for its geothermal features, but the Black Hills have their own unique geological appeal. From the impressive granite formations of Sylvan Lake and the Cathedral Spires to the massive underground network of Jewel Cave and Wind Cave, there’s plenty to explore. Hiking, rock climbing, paddleboarding, and spelunking are all easily accessible activities, and they come without the need to battle Yellowstone’s summer crowds.

While Yellowstone’s remote location is part of its charm, it also means a more isolated trip. In contrast, the Black Hills region offers a variety of nearby attractions. From Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial to the historic town of Deadwood and the scenic Badlands National Park, there’s no shortage of things to see and do within a short drive. This diversity makes the Black Hills an excellent hub for a family road trip.