Author: Randy Peterson

Fall in the Black Hills

Posted on | by Randy Peterson

Now that Summer is over and school is back in session, we want to invite you to stay with us at Holy Smoke Resort this September and October! 

Mount Rushmore National Monument in FallAfter the Labor Day weekend and before the holiday season is our favorite time of year in the Black Hills. We want more vacationers to know why they should come experience western South Dakota and the Black Hills during the Fall. The majority of travelers come during the Summer months, meaning this is prime time for families, couples, and individuals looking for a low-key, more affordable vacation to experience our part of the country.

Three quick reasons why this time of year is the best time to rent a cabin or bring your RV for a Black Hills vacation:

  • The Fall colors are starting to show, meaning gorgeous views of our terrain.
  • The heat of summer has subsided, but there’s still plenty of sunshine and warm weather to experience the great outdoors!
  • Popular attractions and the national parks near us are still open.

Annual Buffalo Roundup in Custer State Park, South DakotaTo help you plan your stay, we’ve highlighted our favorite Fall events and traditions (like the Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival) so our campers can get the most out of their experience here. Meanwhile, any outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and mountain biking trail availability, and this time of year is especially popular among hunters. 

For travelers only able to stay with us over the weekend, check out our suggested 2-day itinerary! You’ll hit all the “must-sees” and get the experience of a local with our Keystone, South Dakota recommendations.

Cabins, vacation rentals, and RV spots are available until mid-October. 

Be sure to give us a call if you have any questions. Let us know when you plan on staying and some information on what you would like to do and we’ll be happy to help you book your reservation, let you know if your desired attractions will be open during your stay, and give you any other helpful insight as you plan your vacation! 

Main Street of Keystone South Dakota located in the Black Hills near rv camp site and cabin camping Holy Smoke Resort

Your Budget Friendly Black Hills Vacation

Posted on | by Randy Peterson

With the rising concerns of inflation, cost of gas, groceries, and interest rates, an affordable family vacation is a MUST – and there’s still time to squeeze on in this summer!

The Black Hills of South Dakota has been a popular vacation spot for families, especially those within driving distance, due to the many free and budget friendly options parents can find for themselves and their children. We are also becoming a popular destination for young adults and couples who loves the great outdoors or want to know more about our part of the country’s rich history.

Of course, there are the staples: 

And other family favorites nearby:

Main Street of Keystone South Dakota located in the Black Hills near rv camp site and cabin camping Holy Smoke ResortHowever, we want to share a few activities to check out that are also FREE!

Make a stop at Dahl’s Chainsaw Carving to watch the artist Jarrett Dahl in action! He carves bears, eagles, and more out of wood with a chainsaw! The gallery showcases his creations available for purchase and Jarrett can also create an original carving for you. This is a must stop photo opportunity and the show will wow the kids (and you!).

Explore Keystone by following the numbered signs of the Old Town Walking Tour.

There are a total of 19 stations throughout the tour, each stop sharing the history of Keystone’s unique history and how its growth impacted our area of the Black Hills. It’s a great way to get those steps in, snap some photos, and learn more about the city nearby Holy Smoke Resort!

Those seeking adventure will want to check out Wind Cave National Park, one of the most complex caves in the world, and Jewel Cave National Monument – with over 210 miles of mapped and surveyed passages, its the longest cave in the world!. Admission to each of the cave’s parks are free, with tour prices ranging based on age and the tour you choose. Check other their websites for fee free days!

For visitors staying with us for the peace and quiet, but interested in seeing the “City” during the day – check out these Top 10 Free Attractions in (and around) Rapid City! 

The list covers a ton of must-see stops and offers a good variety to hit everyone’s interests. Military buffs will be interested in the South Dakota Air and Space Museum, while Prairie Edge Trading Company showcases the heritage and culture of the Northern Plains Indians, and the Chapel in the Hills is a replica of the famous Borgund Stavkirke of Leardal, Norway!

And of course, families with young children (or even those who are just young at heart) will want to stop by Dinosaur Park and Storybook Island!

If you’re more interested in scenic cruises or outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and paddlesports, then you’ll want to read our blog Outdoor Adventures in the Black Hills.

Only here for a few days? Read up on our Black Hills 2 Day Vacation Itinerary!

Still looking for a place to stay? Check out our rv sites, cabins, and vacation rentals or give us a call and we’ll help you make your reservation.

Outdoor Adventures in the Black Hills

Posted on | by Randy Peterson

Here in the Black Hills of South Dakota, we pride ourselves on the abundance of outdoor experiences – not just for the locals, but for the travelers who come visit!

Most of our favorites are right next to Keystone – right next to Holy Smoke Resort.

Aside from the obvious, Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, the Rushmore Tramway Adventures, the Rush Mountain Adventure Park, Big Thunder Gold Mine, and 1880 Train are just a few we want to shout out.

But our area has everything from hiking, cruises, mountain biking, paddlesports, and rockclimbing – plenty to do while you’re here exploring the area!

Hikers will enjoy Black Elk Peak – previously Harney Peak – a natural, historical, and cultural gem to our Black Hills Area. The trail ends at the fire lookout tower, which is only accessible by a hiking trail (just under 4 miles). You’ll start out near Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park. We would say the trail is moderately difficult, but because of its significance and popularity, the trail is heavily traveled. 

TIP: Many mountain bikers also enjoy the same trails as hikers, so be sure to take out the ear buds and watch out for your fellow adventurers!

Bikers (motorcycles) will appreciate Iron Mountain Road, one of the most scenic areas of our great country. The turns are fun and the views are truly spectacular, unlike any you’ve ever seen! We promise you’ll have a great time.

For bikers here for the Sturgis Rally, we recommend being exceptionally cautious as some of the turns do not give you a direct line of sight for oncoming traffic. We would recommend arriving a few days before the Rally or extending your stay to a few days after for increased safety precautions.

Mountain bikers, shouldn’t feel left out either! The Black Hills offer many different trail experiences at a variety of difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone.

The Centennial Trail (also open for hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding), George S. Mickelson Trail (also open year-round for our off-season guests) and Storm Mountain Trail (another popular hiking trail) are our top three picks – but there are several others to enjoy on our side of the state as well.

If you’re more interested in water activities, our lakes and reservoirs offer the opportunity to beat the heat by boating, kayaking, and canoeing! If you don’t have a way to bring your own equipment, families and travelers have the ability to rent from a majority of local businesses.

For the brave, you can also rockclimb in Custer State Park, at Devil’s Tower National Monument, Falling Rock, Spearfish Canyon, and more! We recommend you are an experienced climber and have a spotter or a group with you for this specific activity. We want everyone to stay safe and have an enjoyable vacation! If you’re a beginner or traveling solo, you should look into Sylvan Rocks, a climbing school and guide service and only 24 miles from us!

TIP: We suggest anyone venturing out for the day to bring some snacks, sunscreen, and a few bottles of water with you. If you’ve forgotten any these necessities, we have some available at the office or if you’re looking for a place to eat, we can recommend restaurants based on where you’ll be spending your day!

Ready to book your stay? Give us a call or find your cabin or RV site on our website.

Cabin Camping at Holy Smoke Resort in the Black Hills at Keystone South Dakota

Summer Camping in the Black Hills

Posted on | by Randy Peterson

Cabins 22 and 23 at Holy Smoke Resort Keystone, SD, Mt Rushmore, lodging, black hills

Cabins, vacation homes, and RVs… oh my!

What is your preferred way to camp during the summer?

Cabin camping lets you and your family be in the great outdoors, while keeping their preferences for a comfortable vacation experience. Being one with nature doesn’t mean you have to undergo the discomforts and inconveniences that traditional tent camping comes with. In fact, cabin camping offers a long list of perks and some cabins are complete comfort for families traveling during the summer and is a popular option for many of our guests!

Cabin camping means…

A structurally sound place to stay with the comforts of home, but away from home.

Most cabins come with amenities and utilities that offer you the same flexibility and comfort of home, without bringing everything and the kitchen sink. For example, each of our cabins are equipped with modern facilities – air conditioning, satellite TV, wifi, fully furnished (all queen size beds!), and are complete with a full kitchen!

The full kitchen ensures a way to cook meals without worrying about a possible burn ban or hauling coolers and cook-top options with you during your stay. This is incredibly appealing to our travelers who are trying to pack light and have planned to travel across the midwest and have several other stops planned.

That’s not even addressing the lovely indoor plumbing and electricity.

Multi-generational families will see the benefit as well since sleeping arrangement for infants, young children, and grandparents are more comfortable than an air mattress (or the ground).

Something our travelers should know, is the Black Hills are also no stranger to thunderstorms or hail weather during the summer. This means a cabin would provide adequate and safe shelter during the night! (PS – bikers coming for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally should take the appropriate measures for the weather too!)

Little to no consuming campsite setup – which more time for fun!

Tent camping requires a lot of setup (and equipment!) to bring and cuts into valuable family bonding time. Especially for larger families when tent camping could also mean multiple tents! Whereas a cabin offers more comfortable sleeping arrangements without the extra packing (and unpacking).

Instead, your time can be spent enjoying the beauty of the Black Hills in South Dakota – and if you’re only here for a few days, we’ve built an ideal two-day itinerary as a suggestion for how to spend your time here! Of course, if you’re here longer or have other interests, you can always let us know more about your trip and we would be happy to help you plan so you get the most out of your experience.

Enjoy the Black Hills while staying IN the Black Hills!

Camping is about enjoying the great outdoors, being one with nature, having adventures, and creating memories. Cabin camping provides a great balance between hotels (often located in more populated areas, away from nature, and/or in a city) and RV or tent camping.

For families looking for a place in the Black Hills or in the Keystone or Hill City area, you’ll wake up to the smells of pine, a breathtaking view, and a tranquil setting with our cabins!

Still unconvinced about cabin camping? Holy Smoke Resort also hosts 21 spacious, shaded RV sites and our RV park is open mid-April through mid-October! In addition, our vacation homes available for visitors to the Black Hills are great for larger parties or multi-family vacations looking to bunk together.

Black Hills 2 Day Vacation Itinerary

Posted on | by Randy Peterson

Here in the Black Hills but only have limited time?

We’ve created an adventure-filled, two-day itinerary option for you!

With Mount Rushmore National Memorial only 4.2 miles from Holy Smoke Resort, this is an obvious place to go – and honestly, it’s probably one of (if not THE) main reason most of our visitors come to western South Dakota. Unsurprisingly, Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park are also common locations that draw people to the area.

The plan below can be interchanged to best fit your family and fellow travelers, and if you have any questions at all – be sure to let us know any time during your stay at Holy Smoke Resort so we can help you out!

DAY 1: Mount Rushmore and Downtown Keystone

  • We recommend heading south to the Powder House to fuel up on a tasty and filling breakfast and coffee to get your day started. This is also a great place for lunch or dinner.
  • On your way to Mount Rushmore, be sure to spend some time in downtown Keystone.

Rushmore Tramway Adventures is the perfect place to bring the kids and burn off some energy. With a zipline tour, alpine slide, aerial adventure park, and more; it’s a fun way to spend your morning!

Dahl’s Chainsaw Art is an impressive gallery featuring, you guessed it, chainsaw carvings! Black Hills Glass Blowers, Black Hills Gifts & Gold, Turtle Town, and Iron Creek Leather are also notable shops we recommend you swing in and visit.

The Big Thunder Gold Mine is a fascinating mining museum in a replica 1895 gold mill. With guided tours of the old gold min and gold and gem panning, it’s a fascinating experience for all ages.

Make the stop for a refreshing treat too! Order the VANILLA ice cream cone – because the recipe is from Thomas Jefferson.

If you time your visit after Memorial Day, be sure to spend the evening for the Mount Rushmore evening lighting ceremony! After sunset, a park ranger shares the history of the monument in this spectacular and patriotic scenery.

DAY 2: Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park

  • Custer State Park encompasses 71,000 acres!! Grab your breakfast to-go and enjoy the scenic drive as you make your way from Holy Smoke to the park.

Hikers will want to hit the trails of the park where breathtaking views of granite spires and the Black Hills await you. Make the stop at Sylvan Lake – consider the crown jewel of Custer State Park – for a tranquil stroll around the lake or pick up a paddleboard or kayak (available for rent – ask our front desk for details) and take your adventure to the water!

The best part of making this an early morning activity is the Wildlife Loop – with the cooler temperatures, it’s more likely the buffalo and begging burros will be out!

PS… do NOT pet the buffalo!!!!

  • Crazy Horse Memorial is much more than a memorial, be sure to explore the campus and the incredible exhibits and gallery available for learning about American Indian history and culture.

Take a tour! Grab a ride on the bus and get a close-up view of the Crazy Horse carving – those who choose to make a charitable gift will also have the opportunity of standing on the arm of the memorial.

Visitors who come between Memorial Day weekend through the end of September are in for another after-sunset show. Reserve one of your nights in the Black Hills to see the “Legends in Light” laser light show that is displayed on the side of the mountain!

Now that you’ve stayed with us for the last two days, were we able to charm you into staying for an additional day or so in the Black Hills? Add these must-visit stops!

Reptile Gardens
Bear Country USA
1880 Train (there’s a stop in downtown Keystone!)
Rushmore Mountain Adventure Park
National Presidential Wax Museum
Holy Terror Mini Golf
Rockin’ R Trail Rides

…and more!!

Let us know what you’re looking for in your Black Hills vacation when you book your RV site or cabin.

We’ll be happy to help you create your perfect getaway!

Multi-generational family with dog

Planning your 2022 family vacation!

Posted on | by Randy Peterson

Multi-generational family with dogWhy does it feel like it’s getting harder and harder to plan a family vacation that everyone is going to enjoy? 

After all, a family vacation sounds simple.

Pick a place. Go there. Have fun. Make memories. Come home.

Easy, right?

We have found, the challenge comes when parents are trying to pick a summer vacation that will entertain and interest everyone in the family – brothers, sisters, toddlers, teens, and even grandma and grandpa. Sometimes, that also means bringing fido along too! So now, you have a group of people with not only different interests but also various ages.

In short, you’re looking for an affordable way for your entire family to take a break and have some relaxation… and unplug for a little while. Maybe see a part of the country you’ve never been to or you find yourself looking for places with things to do that are only within a day or two’s drive.

We are a little biased, but the Black Hills of South Dakota is the perfect location for your next multi-generational family vacation. 

We have history, outdoor adventure, wildlife experiences, shopping, dining, and so much more – for families of all ages and stages! There really is something for everyone here in the Black Hills. Plus, we have absolutely stunning views, and seeing wildlife is easily an everyday occurrence. 

Parents of little ones will enjoy seeing their children’s eyes light up at the live shows at Reptile Gardens and playing with storybook characters at Storybook Island.

Experience the 1880 Train, Rush Mountain Adventure Park, and Big Thunder Gold Mine to keep pre-teens and teenagers engaged and satisfy their need for thrill-seeking. You can also stop by Rushmore Cave if you want to squeeze in a 7-D video game experience. They’ll have so much to share with their friends on TikTok and Instagram!

If Grandma and Grandpa are art and history lovers, this is the vacation of a lifetime for them. The Black Hills is probably most known for our Native American culture and history as much as we are known for Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Custer State Park.

And if you’re looking for outdoor adventure, we have plenty of scenic hiking and biking trails with breathtaking, unique views just ready for you to explore! Water-lovers can even take advantage of paddlesports rentals and make a splash in the lakes and creeks of the hills.

Regardless of what your family is looking for in a vacation, the Black Hills has it! Many of our guests come to the area knowing what they’re going to do… but if you are staying with us at the RV park or in the cabins and need some ideas, just let us know! We would be happy to help you with any recommendations to help you make the most of your time in Keystone and the Black Hills!

RV Family Vacation in the Black Hills of South Dakota

Why RV Camping is Perfect for Families

Posted on | by Randy Peterson

RV Family Vacation in the Black Hills of South DakotaAs we enter the end of the year and the holiday season, more and more families are buying experiences for their children over traditional gifts. And we encourage you to look at everything South Dakota has to offer!

RV camping isn’t new – and it’s seen a huge increase over the last few years. Some people are even choosing to uproot by selling their house and living in an RV full time!

As one of the best RV and cabin campgrounds in the Black Hills, we are here to tell you why an RV camping trip is a perfect plan for your family’s vacation next year.

It’s affordable.

The cost of a family vacation has increased, partially due to the pandemic and partially due to normal economic conditions. It’s easy to see how friends and family are saving money by traveling together and if you are not interested in purchasing an RV, you can also rent!

All of our RV sites are pull-thru sites, with 30/50 amp service, full hook ups, water and sewer, and are considerably less expensive than multiple hotel rooms (only $50 per night for two people and each additional person is only $2.50!)

Comfort and Convenience

RV travel offers more comfort and convenience (especially for multi-generational travelers) because many RVs are really homes on wheels. There’s more space in an RV, access to electricity, it’s easier to cook, and larger models also provide other features like bathrooms and full-sized refrigerators. Both are options families with younger children find a huge help for those potty training or who request frequent stops for snacking.

The variety of RVs mean you are able to find the best one that is going to fit your travel needs. From a small pop-up pulled by your vehicle and larger RVs give more room to enjoy during your travels.

Also, if weather changes – and we do get rain! – you have peace of mind knowing you’ll always have shelter.

Bring the dog!

There’s no need for pricey kennels for your dog or the need to ask a friend to watch fido. Bring them with you!

Many RV parks are pet/dog friendly – including ours.

We have an on-site dog run, dogs must be supervised by their owners at all times, and even allow dogs in designated cabins. If you’re bringing your fur-baby, be sure to let us know and ask any questions you have about our pet policy.

Outdoor Adventure

The Black Hills of South Dakota is an attractive vacation for families and friends who love the great outdoors – and with an RV the drive here is part of the vacation experience!

You’ll create wow-moments with the family as you enjoy our unique part of the country.

Keep in mind there are a few attractions that have RV limitations or restrictions – like Mount Rushmore – so feel free to give our office a call and we will be happy to help you with your vacation planning!

Winter in the Black Hills of South Dakota near the RV park and cabin rental at Holy Smoke Resort in Keystone

Holidays in the Black Hills

Posted on | by Randy Peterson

The holiday season is a spectacular sight in the Black Hills of South Dakota!

Winter in the Black Hills of South Dakota near the RV park and cabin rental at Holy Smoke Resort in KeystoneWhile we close for the season by mid-October, we still recommend Keystone and the Black Hills for your winter stay. 

South Dakotans are known for the hometown hospitality and the Holy Smoke Resort staff is no different. During the Spring, Summer, and Fall, we make it a point to treat each one of our guests like family (the good and the bad, haha). It only makes sense that we would continue to look out for our family and friends by recommending some incredible options for how you and your loved ones can enjoy the area, should you find yourself in Keystone during the holiday season!

Many of the annual holiday events that take place in the Black Hills have become long standing family traditions; for visitors and the locals. With a wide variety of festivities happening, there is easily something for everyone. 

Families with young children will want to check out The Holiday Express – 1880 Train for a traditional Christmas story, hot cocoa, and cookies baked by Mrs. Claus! Then, make sure to make a swing into Storybook Island for their Christmas Nights of Lights celebration and see favorite storybook characters and statues decorated for the holidays.

Young adults and couples will enjoy the festivities at Rapid City’s Main Street Square, including ice skating, the Winter Market (which features local vendors), and the close proximity to great restaurants and nightlife. If you’re looking for live entertainment or a historical experience, check out the events in Historic Deadwood to fill your travel itinerary!

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the snowmobiling and snowshoeing opportunities, skiing and snowboarding, and hiking trails that allow for breathtaking views. This part of the country with a light dusting of snow is truly magical. You must come see it for yourself!

If you find yourself in western South Dakota during the holidays, be sure to check out some of the favorites we’ve shared with you! If you go to any of them, let us know about your holiday experience. You can share photos and stories with us on our Facebook page, and tell us know which ones were your favorite.

Will we see you next season? You can make your RV site, cabin, or vacation home rental reservation anytime throughout the year! Just give us a call and let us know when you’ll be staying.

Until then, stay warm!

RVs parked at Holy Smoke Resort in the Black Hills of South Dakota with full hook ups

Holy Smoke Resort is for RV Travelers!

Posted on | by Randy Peterson

RVs parked at Holy Smoke Resort in the Black Hills of South Dakota with full hook upsLet’s get to the nitty gritty. 

Here are a few of the technical reasons why we are the best place to park it for the night (or the weekend… or the week!) in the Black Hills.

  • With easy access just off Highway 16A, our affordable RV parking allows you to enjoy your stay in the Black Hills of South Dakota in comfort and seclusion. Perfect for those who are looking for a quiet, natural setting to rest your head.
  • Each of our 21 RV sites are pull through sites and range from 65’ to 78’ long with 30 and 50 AMP service – one of the few RV parks in western South Dakota that is able to accommodate the newest and larger RVs.
  • Holy Smoke Resort features full hook ups, water and sewer, satellite TV (let us know you want a rooftop sat friendly site!), and free wifi throughout the campground.
  • We are dog friendly! A designated dog run is available to give your pup a safe place to burn off energy when a walk just isn’t enough. Supervision of your furry friend is required.

Over the last two years, we have seen a dramatic increase in RV travelers. RVing has become a popular lifestyle and an affordable way for families to travel, create memories, and experience the United States. Most RVers enjoy the great outdoors – something the Black Hills of South Dakota is greatly known for. You’ll see wildlife on the property. Deer, fox, and wild turkey are the most common to hang around the area, but we have seen elk and mountain goats in the past. Hiking trails, mountain biking, and watersports (like paddleboarding or kayaking) are only a few of the reasons why our area is so popular among outdoor enthusiasts. Not to mention geocaching and scenic drives.

At Holy Smoke Resort we make it easy for RV and camper travelers to find a great place to stay during their family vacation, retirement getaway, or couples to retreat that is quiet and scenic, but still having easy access to amenities you need while away from home. We welcome every new RVer to our site and we promise you will be treated like family! Ask any questions you have about the area and the RV park when making your reservation and during your stay and we would be delighted to help you create the perfect vacation.

We know so much about RV travelers because South Dakota has a long-standing reputation among the RV community for being one of the most friendly and welcoming states in the country for RV travelers. And we do our very best to help uphold that repuation! With breathtaking scenic views and historical sites to see, Holy Smoke Resort outside of Keystone, South Dakota provides incredibly easy access to all the must-sees of South Dakota.

National Monuments and Parks

Favorite Family Attractions

Please, let us know how we can make your RV trip more enjoyable and your time in the Black Hills unforgettable.

Not an RVer, but still want to stay at Holy Smoke? We also have cabin rentals and vacation homes available.

Buffalo Roundup field of bison at Custer State Park 18 miles from Holy Smoke Resort in the Black Hills of South Dakota

Fall Events and Traditions in the Black Hills of South Dakota

Posted on | by Randy Peterson

Buffalo Roundup field of bison at Custer State Park 18 miles from Holy Smoke Resort in the Black Hills of South DakotaSo, you’ve found yourself in our beautiful Black Hills and you’re staying with us at Holy Smoke Resort during the Fall. Welcome! It’s so tranquil here; the perfect little getaway spot for a long weekend. But what is there to do here once the summer attractions close? Well, aside from the must-see Legends in Light laser light show at Crazy Horse Memorial and the magnificent Mount Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony, the Black Hills of South Dakota hosts a variety of events throughout the Fall. Including one of the most infamous events for our area… Custer State Park’s Buffalo Roundup.

The “first official” Buffalo Roundup began in 1965, even though the park has a history of rounding up bison ever since 1914 (before Custer State Park was even officially a park!). The difference was the herd wasn’t quite as large and so it didn’t require an annual event like it does today – with approximately 1,300 bison. 

While spectators come from all around the country for this unique sight, the Buffalo Roundup is actually a critical management tool for Custer State Park in maintaining a strong and healthy herd. The history of the event and how it transformed into a three day arts festival featuring over 100 vendors with South Dakota made products, an auction, and even an application process for riders to join the roundup is fascinating. 

Our outdoor adventure visitors will appreciate the Fall Volksmarch at Crazy Horse Memorial. This 10K route (round trip) takes approximately 4 hours for hikers to complete and is set at your own pace. The terrain is described as “hilly and rough with some steep inclines.” If you stay a few days longer, marathoners have the opportunity to also join the Run Crazy Horse Marathon and Races! The event hosts a half marathon, full marathon, and a 5-person marathon relay. 

If running or hiking isn’t your thing, you can still soak up and enjoy the Native American culture by attending the Black Hills Powwow. This weekend-long event has been running for over 30 years. The Black Hills Powwow attracts hundreds of dancers, singers, artists, and attendees to enjoy a fine arts show, He Sapa Win pageant, tournaments, and a wellness symposium for youth among other entertainment.

Young adult travelers (or even those who enjoy people watching) may be interested in DEADWEIRD. This Halloween celebration is held annually in historic Deadwood, South Dakota. Yep. That TV show. People dress up in elaborate costumes while walking the streets, enjoying the various festivities. Most years consist of a costume contest, monster ball, live bands and entertainment, dancing, and prizes! 

Bridal Falls 72 miles from Holy Smoke Resort in Spearfish South DakotaOur lovely Black Hills is also home to gorgeous scenic drives; so while not an official “event,” we do encourage our Fall visitors to take advantage of the view. Spearfish Canyon in particular is popular among the locals and we highly encourage you to not only make the drive, but to take a leisurely stroll to view Bridal Veil Falls, Roughlock Falls, and Spearfish Falls. Bring a good pair of shoes! Another favorite is Iron Mountain Road, also known as 16A (we’re really close, by the way!), for its fun curves, stunning surroundings, and breathtaking and iconic views.

See? We have many events for you during the Fall! And Holy Smoke Resort is the perfect place to stay! We’re tucked into the hills to offer you peace and quiet seclusion after a busy and exciting day, but we are also conveniently located to any of these events you, your family, and your friends have come to enjoy.