South Dakota is the perfect state for those with an adventurous spirit. From hunting and fishing to fine dining, there’s something here for everyone. If adventure is what you’re craving, head to the little town of Lead, where you’ll never run out of things to do and see.

The pretty little town of Lead has around 3,000 people. It's tucked away in the northern portion of the Black Hills, just south of Deadwood.
City of Lead/Facebook
The town was founded when gold was discovered there in 1876. Though it closed in 2002, the Homestake Mine is still an integral part of this little gold rush town today.
Gary Chancey/Wikimedia
The Homestake Mine is an open pit mine, and was the deepest and most productive gold mine in the Western hemisphere for more than 100 years.
LADweller/Tripadvisor
You can visit the mine and learn more about it at the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center. 160 Main Street.
At the Black Hills Mining Museum, you'll learn more about the history of mining in Lead.
Larry W/Tripadvisor
Take a tour of a replica mine, see some cool mining equipment and learn more about the process of mining for gold at this interactive museum. You'll find it at 323 W. Main Street.
Take a tour of the Homestake Opera House.
management/Tripadvisor
The opera house was built by the mine, and it was also once home to an indoor swimming pool and bowling alley (which has been turned into a shooting range). It's located at 313 W. Main Street. Click here to visit the Opera House's website for tour information.
There's plenty of natural beauty in Lead. Visit the Roughlock Falls State Nature Area.
seek-scenic/Tripadvisor
Take the short, handicapped-accessible trail to Roughlock Falls to witness its beauty firsthand. This gorgeous waterfall is one of South Dakota's most photographed natural attractions.

Related Stories

The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through South Dakota Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through South Dakota Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

 18 Best Hikes In South Dakota: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails To Visit In 2024

18 Best Hikes In South Dakota: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails To Visit In 2024

 This Speakeasy Hidden Underground In South Dakota Is Perfect For A Date Night

This Speakeasy Hidden Underground In South Dakota Is Perfect For A Date Night
Hop on a horse with Andy's Trail Rides.
Janice L/Tripadvisor
Andy offers several different trail ride options, and he's highly entertaining during your trip! Visit Andy’s Trail Rides website to book a ride.
Stay overnight at the Spearfish Canyon Lodge.
Spearfish Canyon Lodge/Facebook
This lodge offers cozy rooms, and plenty of activities, too. Visit the lodge’s website for more information, or to book a stay.
Go snowshoeing through Spearfish Canyon in the winter.
Spearfish Canyon Lodge/Facebook
You can rent snowshoes at the lodge, then head out on a quiet hike through the pines.
Explore the canyon by snowmobile.
Spearfish Canyon Lodge/Facebook
Rent snowmobiles, or take a guided tour from the lodge.
In the summer, rent a UTV to explore the area.
Spearfish Canyon Lodge/Facebook
The lodge offers rentals for full or half days.
Other summer activities include fly fishing, hiking and mountain biking.
Spearfish Canyon Lodge/Facebook
You'll never be bored in Lead!
Don't miss the biggest winter festival of the year!
Lead Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Lead's Winterfest Snowbash is a three-day music festival that features some of South Dakota's best musical artists. This year's festival starts on Thursday, January 25th and runs through Saturday, January 27th. The festival is FREE to attend! Click here for all the details.

What’s your favorite adventure in Lead?

Here’s another adventure in South Dakota’s Black Hills that few people ever take. Check it out!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles