Looking for badlands/wind cave/custer itinerary help & advice!
Road tripping from Chicago to CA and have 1 day each in Badlands NP and Wind Cave NP/Custer SP. Wondering what the best itinerary is?
We love hikes & are excited to explore the unique geography of these areas. Would love to see wildlife too as I know these areas are known for that!!
Here’s what I’m thinking so far:
BADLANDS DAY:
- Stay in Wall the night before
- Notch trail
- Maybe windows and doors trail?
CUSTER & WIND CAVE DAY:
- Stay in Rapid City the night before
- jewel cave
- cathedral spires
- sylvan lake
Since we’re road tripping, I don’t really want to add more driving time by doing the driving tours. Also, we’re going to do Black Hills to see Mt. Rushmore/Crazy Horse the day after as we drive out of South Dakota, so no need to add that to suggestions!!
Any advice would be greatly appreciated, TYIA!!!
Posted Aug 4, 2025, 4:25 PM UTC
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