Capture memories that last a lifetime with these top 10 Instagram worthy photo opps in the Black Hills and Badlands.
What makes an Instagram Worthy photo? To capture an Instagram worthy photo, you want to evoke emotion and tell a story with the image, as well as provide an adventurous or mindful aesthetic.
And don’t forget the lighting – capture landscapes and wildlife at the golden hour or at sunrise, as the light peaks over the edges of the Black Hills.
Sunrise or Sunset over Badlands National Park
Take a drive along Badlands Loop, pull off at one of several scenic overlooks or take a short hike to a lookout point as the sun sets over the rugged buttes and spires of the Badlands and on an epic day of adventure. If you are photographing in the morning, we suggest traveling from East to West. In the evening, West to East, this will ensure beautiful illumination.
Historic Main Street in Deadwood
The cobblestoned street is lined with buildings that tell the stories of Wild
West legends Wild Bill Hickock, Calamity Jane, and Seth Bullock, all against the backdrop of the Old West.
Spearfish Falls
A short hike from the top of Spearfish Canyon, nature lovers meander a short distance through deciduous trees leading to a towering waterfall framed with seasonal foliage flowing into Spearfish Creek.
Iron Mountain Road
While the Black Hills and Badlands are anything but short of scenic routes, a cruise along Iron Mountain Road and you will capture Mount Rushmore National Memorial peeking out from the other side of the granite rock tunnel, which provides a unique photo of the Memorial.
Little Devils Tower
Atop of Little Devils Tower provides the most photogenic panoramic view of the Southern Black Hills. Capture Black Elk Peak, the Cathedral Spires, and granite and pine-clad hillsides. For an even more epic shot – capture the view during the Golden Hour.
Custer Peak
Take a UTV ride to the top of Custer Peak and become mesmerized with the 360-view of the granite and pine landscape from the historic Custer Peak fire tower.
Bison roaming the prairie
The majestic iconic bison is a photographer’s dream, set among the backdrop of rolling hills or the swaying grass of the South Dakota prairies. Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park offer photographers the opportunity to capture shots of the bison. Exercise caution and use a zoom lens so you can keep a safe distance. If visiting Badlands National Park, you will find bison roaming the South Unit. To note: The Badlands bison herd is known for its relatively high genetic purity compared to many other bison populations, though it still has some genetic diversity from its founding lineages.
Birdseye view of the Black Hills
Take a hot air balloon ride and float above the treetops or book a helicopter ride for a panoramic, sunrise view of the Black Hills.
Mount Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony
A monumental photo at any time, Mount Rushmore National Memorial is extra iconic when illuminated in the night sky. If you’re an early bird, catch the sunrise over the majestic monument. Or attend an evening ceremony at the Memorial, which begins around dusk.
Pine-Clad Hills Mirrored in a Black Hills Lake
Spend a day exploring area lakes like Sylvan, Sheridan, or Legion, and capture the Hills mirrored atop the glassy water. Most lakes have walking or hiking trails available.
Forever 605
As you adventure into the Black Hills and Badlands, in search of the next epic shot, be aware of State Park and National Forest regulations, and pack in what you pack out to preserve our sacred lands for locals and guests alike.
We also want you to share your exploration with us by using the hashtag #DiscoverBlackHillsBadlands when sharing your adventures!
