Journey Through Time at Black Hills Petrified Forest
Explore the ancient wonders of the Black Hills Petrified Forest, where nature's beauty and geological history come alive in stunning fossilized wood.
Immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of the Black Hills Petrified Forest, a mesmerizing attraction that showcases stunning fossilized wood and captivating geological history. Perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike, this destination offers scenic views and educational experiences that will leave you in awe.
A brief summary to Black Hills Petrified Forest
- 8220 Elk Creek Rd, Piedmont, South Dakota, 57769, US
- +1605-787-4560
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Don’t forget to bring water and snacks, as there may be limited facilities available.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the natural trails.
- Check the weather before your visit to ensure you dress appropriately for outdoor exploration.
- Take your time to read the informative plaques along the paths to enhance your understanding of the forest's history.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start by heading north on SD-34 from any location in South Central South Dakota. After approximately 30 miles, turn right onto I-90 W. Continue for about 20 miles and take exit 61 for SD-79 toward Deadwood. Follow SD-79 N for about 10 miles until you reach the junction with US-385 S. Turn left onto US-385 S and continue for about 5 miles. Then, turn right onto Elk Creek Rd. The Black Hills Petrified Forest will be on your left at 8220 Elk Creek Rd, Piedmont, SD 57769. Make sure to check for parking availability upon arrival.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Black Hills Petrified Forest via public transportation, you will need to take a bus to Rapid City. You can check local bus schedules for routes from your location to Rapid City. Once in Rapid City, you can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to get to the Black Hills Petrified Forest. It is approximately a 30-minute drive from Rapid City to the forest, so be prepared for a ride that may cost around $40-$60, depending on the time of day and demand.
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Bike
For the adventurous traveler, consider biking to the Black Hills Petrified Forest. Start from Rapid City and head south on SD-79. The route is approximately 20 miles and takes you through scenic areas. Make sure to wear a helmet and carry water, as there are limited stops along the way. Upon reaching Elk Creek Rd, turn left and bike the remaining distance to the forest.
Discover more about Black Hills Petrified Forest
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