From the towering granite monuments of the Black Hills to the colorful formations of Badlands National Park and the rugged beauty of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, this carefully curated private journey showcases some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the American West.
Begin your adventure exploring South Dakota’s iconic attractions and parks before venturing north to the historic frontier town of Medora, the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Today, visitors can experience the same sweeping badlands, abundant wildlife and wide-open prairie that inspired one of America’s most influential presidents, while also visiting the remarkable new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.
Designed for travelers seeking more than the typical Black Hills vacation, this private experience combines iconic landmarks with lesser-known treasures, allowing you to experience two extraordinary states in one seamless journey.
Discover the landscapes that shaped America’s conservation legacy.


Explore dramatic rock formations, sweeping prairie landscapes and abundant wildlife while learning about the geology, Native American history and fascinating stories that shaped this remarkable region.
This tour can either be operated with a morning start, or an afternoon/evening departure from Rapid City – depending on your arrival time.
Overnight: Rapid City
Option: Day Tour or Sunset Tour
Visit world-famous monuments before travelling scenic mountain roads through towering granite spires, crystal-clear lakes and one of America’s finest state parks.
Highlights include:
Overnight: Rapid City
After breakfast in Rapid City, journey north across the prairie into North Dakota (4 hours).
Following lunch in the historic western town of Medora. Explore the spectacular South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the Painted Canyon Visitors Center – where Roosevelt once ranched and discovered the landscapes that would forever influence his commitment to conservation.
This evening, guests may choose to attend the famous Medora Musical (seasonal, optional).
Overnight: Medora
Option: Medora Musical
Spend the morning exploring one of America’s newest cultural attractions—the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.
Built into the surrounding landscape overlooking the Little Missouri River Valley, the library tells the remarkable story of Theodore Roosevelt’s life, leadership and enduring conservation legacy through immersive exhibits and striking architecture.
After lunch in Medora, begin the scenic return to Rapid City.
Overnight: Rapid City
Option: Devils Tower National Monument
Extending your journey to include Devils Tower National Monument adds the dramatic landscapes of Wyoming and eastern Montana to your itinerary, creating a truly unique four-state adventure through the heart of the American West.
If your schedule allows, consider extending your adventure with our Northern Black Hills Tour featuring:
This day tour can be scheduled either before or after the North Dakota experience.
This is a private tour, customized for each group. Contact us directly to check availability discuss pricing and personalize your itinerary.
This is a private tour, running over 4 to 5 days. Order of tour days can be changed according to guest preferences.
From ~$4,600 + tax for 2 guests
Additional Guests from ~$950 + tax
Every Black Hills vacation is different. Our South Dakota / North Dakota package is designed to be flexible, allowing guests to select from several touring options and experiences throughout their stay. Final pricing will depend on your chosen itinerary, group size, and any optional upgrades or attractions.
Contact us to build your ideal tour and receive a customized quote.
While we are happy to assist in coordinating accommodation, guests overnight costs are not included in this tour. One night guide lodging (Medora) is included in the tour price.
Yes. Every departure is completely private, meaning you’ll travel exclusively with your own group and a knowledgeable local guide. There are no shared coaches or large tour groups, allowing us to customize the itinerary, pace and stops to suit your interests.
Absolutely. One of the benefits of a private tour is flexibility. We can adjust sightseeing, add extra attractions, extend your stay in Medora, include Devils Tower National Monument, or swap the Badlands day tour for our Badlands Sunset or Sunset & Stargazing Experience.
Contact us so we can help you develop your ideal trip.
The journey begins and ends in Rapid City, South Dakota. We provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off from Rapid City hotels, vacation rentals and the Rapid City Regional Airport.
Absolutely. We could finish the tour in Medora, without the transfer back to Rapid City.
Our guide still returns to Rapid City, after the tour, so this change does not impact pricing.
No. Accommodation is not included, allowing you the flexibility to choose lodging that best suits your style and budget. We’re happy to recommend hotels in both Rapid City and Medora and can assist with planning your overnight stays.
Lunch can be included on our touring days in South Dakota, with our picnics starting at $15pp. Meals while in Medora are not included, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the town’s restaurants at your leisure. We are happy to provide recommendations and assist with reservations.
Wildlife sightings are one of the highlights of this journey. Depending on the season and conditions, you may see:
While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, both Custer State Park, Badlands National Park and Theodore Roosevelt National Park offer some of the best viewing opportunities in the region.
Most stops involve short, easy walks to overlooks and visitor centers. Walking distances can be adjusted to suit your comfort level, making this tour suitable for guests of varying abilities, and for those looking for more hikes and outdoor time.
This tour is available seasonally, generally from late spring through early fall. Summer offers warm weather and the Medora Musical, while September brings cooler temperatures, beautiful light and excellent wildlife viewing.
Yes! The Medora Musical is a wonderful optional addition to your overnight stay in Medora. We’re happy to help arrange tickets as part of your itinerary when performances are available.
Because this is a private multi-day journey with limited guide availability, we recommend booking as early as possible, particularly for travel between June and September. Early reservations also provide the best selection of accommodation in Medora.
These destinations complement each other beautifully. The Black Hills are home to iconic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park, while Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers a quieter, more rugged landscape rich in wildlife and history. Together, they provide one of the most diverse and memorable road trip experiences in the American West.
There are no direct flights between Rapid City and Medora. So driving is the most direct route. If you would like to limit driving time, chat with us about flying out of Medora after your tour, instead of transferring back to Rapid City.

Black Hills Tour Company operates under a special use permit on the Black Hills National Forest