PlanningRiding the 1880 Train: a steam trip from Hill City to Keystone
How the 1880 Train works: where to board, how long the ride takes, when it runs, and how to fit the steam railway into a day out from Custer.
Stories & guides
The CusterCity blog
Itineraries, wildlife guides, day trips and practical advice for exploring Custer and the Black Hills.
Latest posts
Planning
Black HillsVisiting the Crazy Horse Memorial: what to see and how to plan it
A visitor’s guide to the Crazy Horse Memorial near Custer: the story of the carving, the museums, the bus to the mountain, the night laser show and the Volksmarch.
OutdoorsWind Cave or Jewel Cave? Choosing a cave tour near Custer
Two of the longest caves in the world are a short drive from Custer. Here is how Wind Cave and Jewel Cave compare, which tours to choose and how to get tickets.
PlanningThree days in the Black Hills: an itinerary from Custer
Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and the caves in three days, all from a base in Custer, with tips on timing and what to book.
WildlifeSeeing bison on the Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park
Where and when to see bison, pronghorn, prairie dogs and the famous burros on the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road, and how to stay safe.
Day tripsVisiting Mount Rushmore from Custer: routes, timing and tips
The fast route and the scenic route from Custer to Mount Rushmore, the best time to visit, the evening lighting and how to add Crazy Horse and Keystone.
Day tripsA Badlands day trip from Custer
How to see Badlands National Park in a day from Custer: the route, the Badlands Loop Road, short trails, wildlife and Wall Drug.
EventsThe Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup: a visitor’s guide
Every September, cowboys drive the Custer State Park bison herd across the prairie. When it is, where to watch, what to bring and where to stay.
Scenic drivesThe best scenic drives in the Black Hills
The Needles Highway, the Iron Mountain Road, the Wildlife Loop and Spearfish Canyon: the Black Hills’ greatest drives, and how to fit them together.