The landscape of the Southern Hills is easy on the eyes. The hills are soft, and the sky is a dominant feature. There is a sense of great distance here and the presence of humans is small. Approaching storms are visible for miles, and lightning and rainbows color the vast plains.

For scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activity, there is no place better in the region than 71,000-acre Custer State Park. Hiking trails to lakes and peaks crisscross the park, and bison ramble unfettered throughout. Reminiscent of the great architecture of our national parks, four beautiful lodges provide international dining and accommodations that range from simple cabins to luxury rooms.

The Southern Hills are also home to the monumental work-in-progress mountain carving in honor of Crazy Horse, one of the greatest warriors and leaders of the Lakota Nation.

Two of the world’s longest caves, the calcite crystal–encrusted Jewel Cave National Monument and Wind Cave National Park offer exciting looks at the world below the surface.

The historic town of Hot Springs looks and feels much as it did 100 years ago, with beautiful sandstone buildings and a spa culture that originated in the warm, spring-fed “healing waters” that inspired early-20th-century train travelers to come and “take the cure.”

The Best of the Southern Hills

• Crazy Horse Memorial
• Jewel Cave National Monument
• Needles Highway
• Wildlife Loop
• Harney Peak
• Mammoth Site
• Cave Tours at Wind Cave National Park