Discover the Majestic Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower
Explore Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower for stunning views, rich history, and an unforgettable hiking experience in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
A brief summary to Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower
- Deadwood, South Dakota, 57732, US
- +1605-642-4622
Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower stands as a testament to the beauty of the Black Hills and the spirit of friendship. Constructed in 1919, this historic tower was built by the local community to honor President Theodore Roosevelt's dedication to conservation and the natural world. The hike to the tower is a rewarding experience, with well-maintained trails that wind through lush forests and offer spectacular vistas of the surrounding landscapes. As you ascend, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse flora and fauna that call this area home, including various species of birds and native wildflowers. Upon reaching the tower, visitors are greeted with panoramic views that stretch across the Black Hills and beyond. The sight from the top is truly breathtaking, especially at sunrise or sunset when the landscape is bathed in warm hues. This spot serves as an ideal location for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In addition to the stunning scenery, the tower itself is a piece of history, and a plaque detailing its significance adds to the educational aspect of the visit. Beyond the hike and the tower, the area surrounding Mount Roosevelt is rich with other attractions and activities. Visitors can explore nearby Deadwood, a historic town known for its gold rush history and vibrant nightlife. Whether you're interested in hiking, history, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to South Dakota.
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay energized throughout your hike.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the trails comfortably.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views from the tower!
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the hills.
Getting There
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Public Transit
From downtown Rapid City, walk to the nearest bus stop for the Rapid City Public Transit. Take the Route 6 bus heading towards West Boulevard. Get off at the stop near the intersection of West Boulevard and 44th Street. From there, you will need to walk approximately 2 miles to reach the trailhead for Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower. Head west on 44th Street until you reach the intersection with Canyon Lake Drive. Turn right onto Canyon Lake Drive and follow it until you see signs for the Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower trailhead.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Rapid City. Start from Main Street and head southwest towards the Canyon Lake Drive. Follow Canyon Lake Drive which eventually leads you towards the Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower. The bike ride is roughly 3 miles and offers beautiful scenery along the way. Look for trail markers that indicate the path to the tower.
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Walking
For those who enjoy hiking, you can walk from downtown Rapid City to Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower. Start from Main Street and head northwest towards 5th Street. Continue on 5th Street which eventually becomes the trailhead for Mount Roosevelt. This is a scenic route and will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your pace. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water.
Attractions Nearby to Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower
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Mount Roosevelt Memorial
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The Brothel Deadwood
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Former Chinatown
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Alkali Ike Tours
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Broken Boot Gold Mine
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Historic Downtown Deadwood
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Wild Bill Hickok Statue
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Deadwood Alive
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Adams Museum
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Tatanka Story of Bison
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Days of '76 Museum
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Mount Moriah Cemetery
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Adams House
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Black Hills Mining Museum
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Termesphere Gallery (Call to Visit)
Landmarks nearby to Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower
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Deadwood Bad Lands
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Oyster Bay
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Belle Joli Winery Tasting Room
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Deadwood Tattoo Company
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Statue of Wild Bill Hickok
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Buffalo Bodega Complex
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Deadwood's Oldest Bar
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Gold Dust Casino & Hotel
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Sick-N-Twisted Brewery
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Happy Days
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Mineral Palace Hotel & Gaming
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Historic Bullock Hotel
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Woody's Wild West Photography Old Time Photos
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First Deadwood Souvenirs
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Deadwood Distilling Company