Private Custom Day Tour of the Southern Black Hills

Exploring the Southern Black Hills: An Honest Look at a Private Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring South Dakota’s stunning Black Hills but don’t want to get bogged down in rigid schedules or crowded groups, the Private Custom Day Tour might catch your eye. Offered by Keystone Trading Post & Custom Day Tours, this experience promises a personalized way to see some of the most iconic sights while enjoying the comfort of a private vehicle and a knowledgeable local guide, Mike Trike.

What we like about this tour? First, it’s highly flexible, giving you the freedom to spend more time at your favorite spots. Second, the personalized nature of the experience means you’re not just another face in a crowd, but a guest with your own interests. On the downside, it’s not the cheapest option out there, but considering the private service and tailored itinerary, many find the cost justified. This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed, customizable day with a local touch—perfect if you prefer not to be herded into large groups or follow a rigid schedule.

Key Points

• Private and Customizable: Your group, your schedule, your pace.
• Iconic Sights: Visit Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park.
• Comfort & Convenience: Travel in a classic air-conditioned Suburban.
• Flexible Itinerary: Spend more time at places that interest you most.
• All Entrance Fees Included: No surprise costs upon arrival.
• Good for a Full-Day Experience: Around 8-10 hours, providing an immersive day.

What to Expect on the Tour

This private Black Hills tour is designed to give you an intimate experience of some of South Dakota’s most famous landmarks without the rush or crowds often associated with larger group tours. Led by Mike Trike, a passionate local, you’ll start your day with a scenic drive through the Black Hills, soaking in the landscapes instead of watching the road from the window of a bus or cramped van. The journey is flexible, allowing you to linger at each stop as long as you like.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The Black Hills

Your adventure begins in Keystone, a small town that’s a hub for visitors heading into the Black Hills. It’s convenient to meet at 402 1st St, and from there, the day unfolds in a relaxed manner. You’ll enjoy watching the scenery change as you head deeper into the hills, with plenty of opportunities to capture photos of the lush landscapes and rugged terrain.

Mount Rushmore

The first major highlight is Mount Rushmore. Known worldwide, it’s a sight that lives up to expectations. The tour allows you to explore at your own pace, and since entrance fees are included, you won’t have to worry about additional costs. We loved the way the guide shared stories about the monument’s history, making the experience more meaningful. You might find the grand scale awe-inspiring, and evenings bring a different perspective with the lighting ceremony, which the tour concludes with.

Crazy Horse Memorial

Next, you’ll visit Crazy Horse Memorial, a work-in-progress that’s both impressive and thought-provoking. It’s interesting to see the scale of this project and hear about its cultural significance. The tour’s flexibility means you can spend as much time as you want here, taking in the art, learning about Native American history, or simply enjoying the views. One reviewer mentioned that “the size of Crazy Horse is just incredible,” and it’s easy to see why.

Custer State Park

This vast park offers stunning scenery, wildlife, and a chance to relax in nature. We loved the way the guide took us on scenic drives along Iron Mountain Road and Needles Highway, both famous for their twists, tunnels, and breathtaking views. These routes are the highlight for many, offering iconic Black Hills scenery in a compact drive. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop, photograph, or just soak in the surroundings.

The Flexibility and Comfort

What sets this tour apart is its flexibility. Unlike fixed itineraries, your guide is attentive to your interests, allowing unplanned stops or extra time at favorite spots. Traveling in a classic air-conditioned Suburban ensures comfort, especially on hot summer days, and the private setting means no noisy bus to contend with.

Ending with the Lighting Ceremony

The tour wraps up with a return to Mount Rushmore for its Evening Lighting Ceremony. It’s a powerful way to conclude a day of exploration, as the monument is illuminated against the night sky. This experience enhances the overall visit, providing a memorable finish.

Analyzing the Value

At $300 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest way to see the Black Hills, but it offers a level of personalization and comfort that many travelers appreciate. The included entrance fees mean no extra surprises, and the private nature ensures your group’s interests shape the day. If you’re traveling with a small group or want a more tailored experience, many find this price fair.

Some reviews highlight the stunning views and the relaxed pace as key benefits. One said, “Watching the scenery instead of watching the road made a huge difference—you can really take your time and enjoy the views.” The flexibility to spend extra time at sites like Crazy Horse or Mount Rushmore allows you to soak in the landscapes rather than rushing through.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for those wanting an intimate, flexible experience of the Black Hills. If you like the idea of having a local guide who can adapt the day around your interests, this is a great choice. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer comfort and personalized service over large tour groups or self-driving.

While it’s a full-day outing, the relaxed pace and private vehicle make it accessible for most travelers, including those less keen on rigorous schedules. If you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply want the convenience of a curated experience, you’ll probably find this tour worth the expense.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, this private tour could be suitable for children if your group prefers a relaxed, personalized experience. The comfort and flexibility might appeal to families wanting to avoid crowded buses.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, depending on your preference, with a fixed schedule in place during the season.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial are covered in the cost.

Can I bring snacks?
Snacks are not included, so it’s recommended to bring your own non-alcoholic beverages and snacks to stay fueled throughout the day.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from the meeting point at 402 1st St, Keystone, SD.

How long is the tour?
Expect approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore comfortably.

What is the vehicle like?
Travel is in a classic air-conditioned Suburban, providing a comfortable ride for the duration.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this a group tour?
No, this is a private, exclusive experience for your group only.

Final Thoughts

The Private Custom Day Tour of the Southern Black Hills offers a relaxed, personalized way to experience South Dakota’s most famous sites. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and local insights over rigid schedules or large crowds. You’ll get the chance to enjoy iconic landmarks at your own pace, in a comfortable vehicle, with a guide eager to tailor the day to your interests.

While it comes at a premium compared to self-guided options, many find that the ease and personal touch make it worth the expense. The stunning views, flexible itinerary, and the opportunity to explore at your leisure make this a compelling choice for those seeking a memorable Black Hills adventure.

If you’re after a laid-back, customizable day with a local expert by your side, this tour could be just what you need to make your trip to South Dakota truly special.