There is nothing quite as empowering as solo travel. Solo travel offers opportunity to discover on your own terms and truly engage in the activities and experiences you connect with.
Carrie Gerlach, owner of Black Hills Adventure Tours noted the Black Hills and Badlands is a prime destination for solo travelers.
“There are so many opportunities in a condensed area,” Gerlach said. “Solo travelers want to hit the highlights. They can knock items off their bucket list while doing other great activities.” She added that in addition to ability to see and do so much, a trip to the region is affordable.
The Black Hills and Badlands offers urban and outdoor adventures, live entertainment, and unique hidden gems and events to showcase the regional spirit!
While it can seem daunting if it’s your first solo adventure, we’re here to help guide you in planning your next solo trip to the Black Hills and Badlands!
Outdoor Adventure
With a variety of vast hiking trails, there is something for every traveler. Popular trails like Black Elk Peak, Little Devil’s Tower, and the Mickelson Trail will be heavily trafficked, so you won’t be alone. However, there are many hikes throughout the region that will offer serenity and a chance to connect with nature and yourself as a solo adventurer.
Maps of popular trails, mountain bike treks, and other outdoor excursions are available at the Black Hills Visitor Information Center in Rapid City and other visitor centers throughout the region. Learn more about hiking in the region here.
Check out Local Flavors
Dining at the locales offers a fresh taste of regional cuisine, as well as open the door for conversations with fellow travelers and locals. Many restaurants have patio seating to soak in the views and listen to live music while you dine or bar top seating, perfect to meet other solo travelers or diners in the area. Strike up a conversation with the person next to you!
National Parks, Monuments, & Historic Sites
The Black Hills and Badlands is home to two national parks and several national monuments and historic sites, all of which are exceptional spots for a solo traveler.
You can hop on a guided tour or navigate sites at your leisure. Check to see what locations audio tours to learn more about the parks and monuments as you explore.
Schedule a Spa Day
Take a day in between adventures to visit a local spa for a hot stone massage or a soak in a natural hot spring. You’re on no one’s time but your own, so why not treat yourself!
Museums & Artwork
The region is home to a variety of cultural and artistic exhibits. From exhibits that showcase the Native American heritage of the Black Hills and Badlands to street art and community murals to bronze statues in the City of Presidents, the region has opportunity to peruse unique works of art.
Attend a festival
The summer season is filled with festivals, live music, and art events that draw a crowd, and are perfect for solo travelers to mingle with other visitors and locals alike. The unique events are scheduled throughout all our Black Hills and Badlands communities. Check out our events calendar for a list of regional Must Dos!
Rent a bike
Cycling is a popular pastime in the region, and whether you prefer the adrenaline-boost from a mountain bike rip or a peaceful cruise near a creek, there are options for you. Several facilities are available to rent bikes and adventure the region. The Mickelson Trail is a moderate to easy limestone crushed path that weaves you through pine trees, granite rocks, and open prairies, away from the bustle of crowds. The trail is accessible throughout several trail heads in the Hills, making it easy to find no matter where you’re staying. You do need to purchase a trail permit.
Book a guided tour
The Black Hills and Badlands offer guided tours to sight see, bike, hike, and horseback ride. A tour allows you to adventure while meeting other fellow travelers and adds an extra layer of security to the trip. Guided tours curate an itinerary that works for your time and budget. Tour provide rich history and education of the wildlife, landscape, and other aspects of the Black Hills and Badlands.
Where to Stay
Depending on your sense of adventure, spend a night under the stars at a National Forest campsite or rejuvenate in a canvas tent for the ultimate glamping experience. Lodging options are available for peaceful, remote retreats to resorts where you will be surrounded with other travelers to the region.
Getting around
If you’re flying into the region, there are several options to get to your destination. Renting a car offers freedom to travel at your leisure, and many destinations in the Black and Badlands are located within a few hours of each other, meaning you can pack much action into your trip! Ride share services are available but be sure to check with drivers to ensure there will be adequate services along trailheads and other destinations further from urban hubs.
Book ahead
Book guided tours and lodging in advance if you can. Even though you’re a party of one, popular tours and attractions and lodging may fill up during your desired time frame. Booking ahead also saves you time – and money – so you can add even more adventures to your trip. When booking a guided tour, Gerlach recommends calling or emailing to talk to the tour operators. Working with tour operators directly, she notes, allows them to curate an itinerary that is based on the traveler’s interests, time frame, and budget.
Safety
Gerlach encourages travelers to research the area and proximity to destinations when booking lodging. However, she also notes the Black Hills and Badlands is a safe destination for solo travelers.
It is important to make sure you share your location with a close friend or family member. There may be areas where cell phone service is spotty, so it is important someone knows where you are. Familiarize yourself with emergency contacts and forest ranger districts in case of an emergency.
Pack essentials like a GPS system or map, first aid kid, and ample water, especially if hitting the trails. Dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes on the trails, and have a waterproof jacket in case of rain showers.
Take Your Time
Since you’re on your own schedule, take the time to journal and reflect on your solo adventures. Take photos and create a keepsake scrapbook that you can look back on years later.
No matter the adventure, the Black Hills and Badlands will be sure to fill any solo adventurer’s itinerary whether you’re seeking solace or community on your travels.