With an average snow accumulation of around 150 inches annually, snowshoeing is a popular winter activity.
Ice fishing has become very popular in western South Dakota in recent years. The amazing scenery, abundant wildlife and fantastic fishing have fisherman flocking to western South Dakota during the winter months.
Hills and average about $150 per day. Many retailers offer half-day, single-day, weekend, and full week packages.
Snowmobiling The Black Hills Area is a snowmobiler’s dream destination. With over 350 miles of marked trails that open December 1 and are groomed from December 15 through March 31, you are bound to find sights you will not encounter anywhere else. These marked trails wind through pine forests and open meadows and climb up to 6,000 feet in elevation, providing spectacular summit lookouts. This trail system has been ranked in the top 10 places to ride in the nation. With 1.3 million acres of national forest lands to explore, it is unlikely you will encounter much traffic. And unlike some other destinations, there is little worry of dangerous crevasses or avalanches. There are several spots on the trail system to stop and enjoy nature or grab a bite to eat and relax. Didn’t bring your sled? Snowmobile rentals are available in the Northern
Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing If cross country skiing or snowshoeing is your passion, you’ll find no better place than within the Black Hills National Forest and on the many trails surrounding Sturgis. With an average snow accumulation in the Black Hills of around 150 inches annually, conditions are generally favorable between late November and early March. Dress in layers as you would for any winter outdoor activity. Prime destinations include the Centennial Trail and the Fort Meade Recreation Area. Both offer incredible scenery and storied Western pasts. Additionally, there are nearly 60 miles of marked and mapped trails in the Black Hills National Forest. They are easy enough for beginners and beautiful enough for the more experienced to enjoy. If you don’t have your own snowshoes, you can borrow them from the South Dakota State Parks. Visit their website at gfp.sd.gov/ state-parks for details.
South Dakota Tourism
Outdoors
Black Hills Trails
South Dakota Tourism
With over 350 miles of marked trails, the Black Hills Area is a snowmobiler’s dream destination.
Cross country and down hilling skiing are both popular in the Black Hills during the winter months.
Skiing and Tubing Mystic Miner Ski Resort at Deer Mountain is located just 23 miles from Sturgis and offers both skiing and tubing. “Mystic” (summit elevation of 6,850 feet) features an 850 foot vertical drop, two Poma-lifts, a 3,000 foot triple chairlift, and West Ridge, a 400 acre addition to the ski area, which has its own 2,500 foot double chairlift. Over 90 percent of the trails are lighted and night skiing and tubing are occasionally available. Tubing is available for adults and children over the age of three. After a day on the slopes, be sure to visit the Lodge for a snack or beer before you go. Terry Peak (summit elevation of 7,076 feet) features twenty miles of trails on its 1,052 foot vertical drop. Located in the Northern Black Hills, just 21 miles from Sturgis. The resort features seven black diamond runs and is open to Alpine skiers, telemark enthusiasts, and snowboarders. The resort recently added a new high-speed quad chairlift to the existing 6 chairlifts serving the mountain. Terry Peak features amenities including a lodge, condos, and snowmaking capabilities. Over 60 percent of the trails can be covered with existing snowmaking equipment.
www.SturgisAreaChamber.com 2014 Visitors Guide & Directory ~ 19