The Black Hills are stunning year-round, but autumn adds a splash of magic. When September rolls into October, the granite cliffs and pine forests glow with yellow aspens, orange maples, and bright red sumac. The air turns crisp, the summer crowds thin out, and the whole region feels like it is showing off.

If you are planning a fall trip, you may be wondering where to go for the best views. Here is a guide to the top fall color spots in the Black Hills, from famous scenic byways to tucked-away lakes.

Here’s a quick look at how the colors peak while the weather cools across the Black Hills.

📊 Black Hills Fall Foliage & Weather Timeline

• Orange line = Foliage intensity (0–10, with peak around Sep 30–Oct 5)
• Blue dashed line = Average daytime temperatures (°F) during the same period

This chart shows readers at a glance when leaves peak and how the weather shifts, making it more engaging and share-worthy.

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

Ask any local where to see the best autumn colors, and Spearfish Canyon is usually at the top of the list. This 22-mile drive is lined with limestone cliffs and golden aspens that make the canyon glow. Waterfalls like Roughlock, Bridal Veil, and Spearfish Falls add even more beauty to the route.

Peak color usually arrives from late September into the first week of October. Photographers love this spot because the tall cliffs and bright trees create striking contrasts in every direction. Whether you are driving through or stopping to hike, Spearfish Canyon is a must during fall.

Needles Highway (Highway 87)

Granite spires, narrow tunnels, and winding curves make Needles Highway a thrill at any time of year, but fall brings an extra layer of wonder. The road is framed by yellow and orange leaves, giving you a picture-perfect view around each bend.

Pair this drive with a stop at Custer State Park. Not only do you get incredible fall color, but you also have a chance to see bison, elk, and mountain goats in their natural setting. The combination of wildlife and fall foliage makes this one of the most memorable drives in the region.

Iron Mountain Road

Iron Mountain Road is famous for its unique pigtail bridges and tunnels that frame Mount Rushmore in the distance. In the fall, this drive becomes even more dramatic, with golden leaves lining the road and framing your views of the monument.

If you are a photographer, this is one of the best places to capture both fall color and Mount Rushmore in the same shot. The twisting curves of the road make the trip as exciting as the destination.

Custer State Park Wildlife Loop

The Wildlife Loop is one of the most beloved drives in the Black Hills, and in autumn it becomes unforgettable. Wide meadows are dotted with trees turning yellow and orange, while bison herds graze against the backdrop of changing hillsides. Pronghorn, elk, and prairie dogs are also common sightings.

The best times to drive the loop are early morning and late afternoon, when the animals are most active and the sunlight creates a warm glow on the landscape. It is an experience that feels both peaceful and wild.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

The monument itself is stunning during autumn, when the pines around the mountain are mixed with splashes of color. The morning sun lights up the granite faces and the surrounding hills, giving the whole area a golden tone.

If you are visiting Mount Rushmore in the fall, take your time on the Presidential Trail. The walkways give you different angles of the monument framed by trees, and it is a great way to enjoy both history and nature in one stop. For a no-stress option, consider booking a sightseeing tour so you can enjoy the colors while learning stories about the memorial and the Black Hills.

Sylvan Lake and Black Elk Peak

Sylvan Lake is beautiful any time, but in the fall the water reflects the surrounding colors, doubling the view. It is a peaceful place to picnic, walk the trail around the lake, or start a hike.

For those who want a bigger adventure, the trail to Black Elk Peak is a fall favorite. From the top, you can see miles of rolling hills glowing in autumn color. Families who prefer a shorter outing can stay near the lake, while Parks Explorers can enjoy the hike for sweeping vistas.

When Do the Leaves Peak?

Timing matters if you want to catch the colors at their best. In the Black Hills, fall foliage usually peaks from late September through early October. Higher elevations, like Black Elk Peak, change a little earlier, while lower valleys hold onto color into mid-October.

The sweet spot for planning your trip is usually September 25 through October 10. Of course, weather can shift the timeline slightly, so keeping an eye on local reports helps.

Tips for Catching the Best Views

• Start early in the day for softer light and fewer crowds.
• Bring layers since mornings and evenings can be chilly in autumn.
• Plan a scenic loop that combines Spearfish Canyon, Custer State Park, and Mount Rushmore for a full day of fall color.
• Pair your sightseeing with a Chuckwagon Supper Show in the evening for a complete Black Hills experience.

Ready to See the Colors?

The Black Hills in autumn are unforgettable, and each turn of the road reveals a new view worth stopping for. Whether you prefer hiking to overlooks, cruising scenic highways, or snapping photos by a quiet lake, there is no shortage of fall magic here.

🍁 Want to see the best of it without worrying about maps or parking? Book a sightseeing tour today »

Frequently Asked Questions About Fall Colors in the Black Hills

When do fall colors peak in the Black Hills?
Fall foliage in the Black Hills usually peaks from late September to early October. Higher elevations change earlier, while lower valleys may hold color into mid-October.

What is the best scenic drive for fall colors in the Black Hills?
Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is often called the top fall color drive. Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road, and the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop are also favorites for autumn scenery.

Is Mount Rushmore open during the fall?
Yes, Mount Rushmore is open year-round, including the fall season. Autumn is a great time to visit since crowds are smaller and the monument is framed by colorful trees.

Can you see wildlife during the fall in the Black Hills?
Yes. Fall is one of the best seasons for spotting bison, elk, and pronghorn in Custer State Park, especially along the Wildlife Loop.

What should I pack for a fall trip to the Black Hills?
Bring layers, as mornings and evenings can be chilly while afternoons are often warm. A light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera are must-haves for enjoying fall colors.

Fall Scenic Drive Loop in the Black Hills 🚗🍁

If you want to see the best fall colors in one trip, here’s a loop that ties together the most beautiful autumn spots in the Black Hills. Plan for a full day, bring your camera, and enjoy the ride.

Step 1: Start in Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway
Begin your morning drive through towering limestone cliffs and golden aspens. Stop at Roughlock Falls or Bridal Veil Falls for quick photo breaks.

Step 2: Continue to Sylvan Lake
Head south toward Sylvan Lake, where reflections of red and yellow leaves shimmer across the water. Walk the easy lakeside trail or enjoy a picnic lunch.

Step 3: Drive the Needles Highway
After Sylvan Lake, take Highway 87 through the granite spires. In autumn, this winding road offers one of the most colorful drives in the state.

Step 4: Enter Custer State Park Wildlife Loop
Watch for bison, pronghorn, and elk among the golden hillsides. Late afternoon light makes this section especially scenic.

Step 5: End with Iron Mountain Road to Mount Rushmore
Finish your day by heading toward Iron Mountain Road. The tunnels frame Mount Rushmore, and in the fall, the glowing leaves make it even more memorable.