Looking for the perfect way to soak up South Dakota’s fall colors? A day trip through Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park offers golden aspens, quiet trails, and some of the most stunning foliage views in the Midwest.

This fall itinerary guides you through the best photo ops, scenic drives, and peaceful overlooks — all timed to catch the peak of the autumn season in the Black Hills.

Grab your jacket and camera. Here’s how to plan a full day of leaf peeping and monument viewing you won’t forget.

When to Visit for Peak Fall Color

Fall foliage typically peaks between late September and mid-October in the Black Hills. Weather can shift each year, but the last week of September is consistently one of the most colorful windows.

Early mornings often bring mist rising from the hills, while late afternoons bathe the golden trees in soft amber light.

Weekdays offer even more serenity with fewer vehicles on the road. Avoid weekend crowds for the most relaxed experience.

Start at Fort Hays Chuckwagon (8:00 AM)

Begin your day with a hearty cowboy breakfast at Fort Hays Old West Town, just outside Rapid City. It’s not only a filming location from Dances with Wolves, but also the departure point for many Mount Rushmore sightseeing tours.

Enjoy:

• Pancakes hot off the griddle
• Fresh cowboy coffee
• Gift shops and artisan blacksmiths
• Peaceful views as the sun rises over golden fields

This sets the tone for a relaxing and scenic day ahead.

Drive Iron Mountain Road (9:00 AM)

After breakfast, take the Iron Mountain Road into the Black Hills — a twisting, 17-mile scenic route known for:

• Single-lane pigtail bridges
• Granite tunnels that frame Mount Rushmore
• Colorful forests with aspen and birch leaves glowing gold
• Elevated views of the Black Hills in every direction

This is one of the most rewarding drives in the region during fall. Pull over at designated overlooks to capture panoramic shots or simply take it all in.

Explore Mount Rushmore (10:00 AM)

Next stop: the faces themselves. The granite monument feels even more majestic when framed by fall color.

What to do during your visit:

• Walk the Presidential Trail (a paved loop that offers forested views)
• Visit the Lincoln Borglum Museum and theater
• Grab a photo from Grand View Terrace
• Try Thomas Jefferson’s vanilla ice cream recipe at the café

With fewer crowds in the fall, you’ll have more time and space to appreciate the monument.

Scenic Stop at Sylvan Lake (12:30 PM)

Your next leg of the trip brings you to Sylvan Lake, one of the most photographed spots in the Black Hills.

Set against granite formations and ringed with golden leaves in autumn, this alpine lake offers:

• A flat walking trail around the shore (0.9 miles)
• Picnic areas with stone benches and scenic views
• Calm waters that reflect the fall foliage perfectly
• Restrooms and snack options nearby

This is a perfect midday stop to stretch your legs and enjoy a quiet meal or photo session.

Cruise Through Needles Highway (1:30 PM)

From Sylvan Lake, continue along the Needles Highway (SD-87). This route is world-famous for its narrow tunnels, dramatic granite spires, and especially colorful foliage in the fall.

Highlights include:

• Needles Eye Tunnel, just wide enough for one vehicle
• Towering stone “cathedrals” peeking through red and yellow trees
• Twists and turns that open to wide views of the forested hills

Drive slowly. You’ll want to savor every turn.

Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park (2:30 PM)

The next destination is Custer State Park, where fall means crisp air, fewer tourists, and higher chances of spotting wildlife.

On the Wildlife Loop, expect to see:

• Large herds of bison grazing through golden grass
• Elk and deer wandering the tree lines
• Wild burros approaching vehicles
• Hawks and eagles flying overhead

The mix of fall color and wildlife makes this one of the most memorable parts of any autumn Black Hills adventure.

Visit the State Game Lodge (3:30 PM)

Wrap up your time in the park with a brief visit to the State Game Lodge — a historic lodge nestled in the trees.

This was the “Summer White House” for President Calvin Coolidge in the 1920s and now serves as a relaxing place to enjoy:

• A cup of coffee or hot cider
• Gift shopping
• Photos of the lodge framed by autumn trees

Sit for a while on the veranda before making your way back.

End Your Day at Fort Hays (5:00 PM)

Return to Fort Hays in time for the Chuckwagon Supper & Music Show (if pre-booked).

The supper includes:

• Chuckwagon-style smoked meats and baked beans

• Warm biscuits and spice cake

• Live music featuring old-time Western hits

As the sun sets and the music plays, you’ll be grateful for the slower pace and stunning beauty of a fall day in the Black Hills.

Sample Fall Color Day Trip Itinerary

What to Pack for a Fall Tour

• Light jacket or fleece
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camera or smartphone
• Refillable water bottle
• Snacks (optional)
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing

Layers are key. Mornings can be cold, but afternoons often warm up quickly.

For more details, visit our full packing guide.

Book Your Fall Foliage Tour Now

Fall tours fill up fast — especially between September 20 and October 10. To experience the best of South Dakota’s autumn beauty:

• Reserve your Mount Rushmore sightseeing tour
• Let our guides handle the driving, directions, and photo stops
• Sit back and enjoy one of the most beautiful times of year in the Black Hills