Local Adventures
J+F Tails and Trails on Property
J+F Tails and Trails, a small, two-person owned company operated by Julie and Festus, offers personalized guided horseback rides in South Dakota’s Black Hills since May 2021. Conveniently located next to Ghost Canyon Getaway on Ghost Canyon Road, their Hayward trailhead provides a variety of ride options, from 1-hour to half-day adventures, perfect for exploring the stunning Black Hills scenery.
Mt. Rushmore
Escape to Ghost Canyon Getaway, a serene retreat just 12 miles and a 26-minute drive from the iconic Mt. Rushmore. Experience the perfect blend of natural beauty and historic wonder, with cozy accommodations close to one of America’s most famous landmarks.
Rapid City, SD
Discover Rapid City, SD, known as the "Gateway to the Black Hills," where you can visit iconic attractions like Dinosaur Park and the Journey Museum, just 25 miles and a 40-minute drive from Ghost Canyon Getaway. Dive into a city rich with history, art, and outdoor adventure, then unwind in the calm of your nearby nature retreat. It’s the perfect mix of urban highlights and serene escape, all within easy reach.
Hermosa, SD
Discover the charming town of Hermosa, SD, a hidden gem just 11 miles and a 20-minute drive from the tranquil Ghost Canyon Getaway. Enjoy small-town hospitality and easy access to your perfect nature retreat, all within a short, scenic trip.
Rush Mountain Adventure Park
Rush Mountain Adventure Park is a family-friendly attraction located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, near Keystone, just 5 miles east of Mount Rushmore on Highway 40. It combines outdoor adventure with natural exploration, featuring the historic Rushmore Cave—the closest cave to Mount Rushmore—alongside thrilling rides like the Rushmore Mountain Coaster, Soaring Eagle Zipline Ride, Gunslinger 7-D Interactive Ride, and the Wingwalker Challenge Course, offering fun for all ages amid stunning scenery. It’s only a 20 minute drive from Ghost Canyon Getaway.
Custer State Park Visitor Center
Located 20 minutes from Ghost Canyon Getaway, the Custer State Park Visitor Center is a key facility within Custer State Park, located at the junction of US Highway 16A and Wildlife Loop Road in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Opened in 2016, it serves as an educational hub focused on the park’s iconic bison, offering exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and a 100-seat theater showing a 20-minute film about the park’s history and wildlife every half hour, making it an ideal starting point for visitors exploring the 71,000-acre park.
Reptile Gardens
Experience Reptile Gardens, the world’s largest reptile zoo, located just south of Rapid City, South Dakota, on the scenic route to Mount Rushmore. Marvel at over 225 reptile species, from giant tortoises to the massive saltwater crocodile Maniac, and explore the vibrant Sky Dome, a tropical jungle with free-roaming lizards and stunning botanical gardens. Enjoy thrilling live shows and hands-on fun, making it a must-visit attraction for families and adventure seekers in the Black Hills!
Bear Country USA
Bear Country USA is a drive-through wildlife park located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, just 8 miles south of Rapid City along Highway 16. Spanning over 200 acres, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe North American wildlife, including one of the world’s largest collections of privately owned black bears, as well as elk, bison, wolves, mountain lions, and more, all from the comfort of their vehicles. After the 3-mile drive, guests can explore a walk-through area called Babyland, where bear cubs and smaller animals frolic, making it a popular family-friendly attraction open from spring through late November.