Can’t Make It to the Boston Marathon? Try This South Dakota Alternative

If you’re a runner or simply an avid hiker, you probably daydream about conquering impressive physical feats. Whether it's getting into the Boston Marathon or taking on your next hike, there’s something about endurance-based activities that unlocks something you can’t quite get in any other way. If you didn’t get into Boston or are simply looking for a different type of challenge, I encourage you to check out the twice-yearly Crazy Horse Memorial Volksmarch.

The Volksmarch occurs every June and September at, you guessed it, the Crazy Horse Memorial in Custer County, South Dakota. Just outside Custer State Park, this 6.2-mile walk takes trail runners and hikers through the beautiful ponderosa trees for which the Black Hills are known. You’ll end the challenge face-to-face with the 87.5-foot-tall visage of Chief Crazy Horse himself. 

There is a $4 entrance fee for hikers, but additional admission to the event itself is waived if you bring three cans of food per participant. This food is donated to those needy families and individuals in the local area. I’ve completed the Volksmarch in both June and September, and I loved every second of each experience. 

Participating in the June event can be hot, but it's likely to be warmer than the late September date. I was very fortunate when I did the September Volksmarch, as it was a crisp 60 degrees and sunny. However, late September in the Black Hills can quickly turn into winter weather.

The best part about the Volksmarch is the variety of participants. You’ll have everyone from serious trail runners to families with small children. The first time I participated, I was a young college student trying it out with my coworkers from Mount Rushmore Resort and Lodge at Palmer Gulch.

The second time I completed the trail was with my parents, who were in their fifties and sixties at the time. Both hikes were phenomenal yet different experiences. Whichever time you choose, you’ll be awarded a custom, event-specific medal (just as if you had completed that marathon).

Once you’ve completed the march, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the many amenities that the Crazy Horse Memorial campus offers. Be sure to check out the three onsite museums and art galleries. Additionally, there is a restaurant where you can grab a late breakfast or lunch before swinging by the gift shop. 

While it's been quite a few years since I last completed the Crazy Horse Memorial Volksmarch, both times hold a special place in my memory. I still smell the fresh Black Hills air and remember the sun shining on my face as I sweated up a steep ascent. It's an experience I hope to revisit one day, and I'm thrilled it's still going on. 

The September event is typically scheduled to coincide with the Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival, which I highly encourage you to check out as well. What other unique events can you think of in South Dakota? Let us know by filling out our nomination form.