South Dakota’s Most Underrated National Forest You Need to Visit

If you were to ask a stranger what they think about South Dakota, a lot of them will mention either (or both) of two things: Mount Rushmore (fair enough) or the Black Hills (same). The state is famous for these sites, of course, and it's easy to understand why; both are wonders, and each is worthy of a day trip or longer to explore. But today, I'd like to reflect on the wonders of Black Hills National Forest, a 1.3-million-acre expanse of woods and mountains that's home to some of the state's most outstanding natural wonders. Here, you'll be amazed at all the things to do, see, and experience.

Numerous hiking trails meander through the forest, offering unique opportunities to fall in love with the great outdoors again. I'd like to focus on a small sliver of the woods for now, though: Did you know that there are trees within the Black Hills National Forest that are more than 500 years old? More than 700 years old? It's true - trees don't typically die of old age, and if they're lucky enough to live in a place with little threat from fire, pests, or deforestation, they can live an incredibly long time. This just happens to be one of those places where this is possible, and I'm obsessed.

If these old trees could speak, what would they talk about? What kind of stories could they tell us about everything they've seen and experienced? About the passage of time? I'd give anything to be able to have an in-depth conversation with just one (is that weird? Just me?).

Among the oldest trees I'm referring to are some of the Ponderosa pines that grow high in the hills; it's thought that some might be as old as 800 years, which is mind-blowing. You can find some of these ancient pines near Mount Rushmore (600-plus years old) as well as on a summit near Hill City (750-plus years old).

Other elderly trees worth mentioning are the jaw-dropping white spruce throughout the lower regions of the forest; these trees are anywhere from 150 to 300 years old—give or take a few decades—and they, too, would probably have some amazing things to talk about if they could.

Some 86 percent of South Dakota's coniferous forests are here, within the Black Hills, and they are truly special. It's worth exploring in every way, from on foot (there are numerous trails weaving through the forest for your adventuring pleasure) to horseback riding, and almost any other method you can think of. Explore the lakes by kayak, stargaze at night... whatever your heart desires, you can find it here.

To learn more about the Black Hills National Forest, check out the official Black Hills National Forest website. Need more to do while you're here? Check out all the awesome stuff going on in the area using our Travel Planner!