Best of the Southern Hills

Crazy Horse Memorial [1]: The most ambitious mountain carving project in the world demonstrates what a dream and a jack hammer can accomplish.

Jewel Cave National Monument [2]: There are many caves in the Black Hills, but Jewel Cave, named after the sparkling calcite crystals of its interior, is one of the prettiest — and it’s estimated to be the second-longest cave in the world.

Needles Highway [3]: Scenic byways abound in the Black Hills, but the Needles Highway section of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway ranks as number one in my book. It winds and climbs the hills past Cathedral Spires, squeezes through the Needles formation, and ends at peaceful Sylvan Lake.

Wildlife Loop [4]: Along this 18-mile loop in Custer State Park, bison, pronghorns, prairie dogs, mule deer, whitetail deer, and wild turkeys graze placidly, undisturbed by their many admirers.

Harney Peak [5]: Harney Peak is the highest point in the Black Hills and the trail there provides the best hike in the hills. It’s just the right length and difficulty level to make you feel like you’ve earned the vast and inspiring views at the top.

Mammoth Site [6]: It started with one tusk overturned by a bulldozer. Today, the skeletal remains of 58 mammoths, a short-faced bear, and other Pleistocene-era animals are displayed.

Cave Tours at Wind Cave National Park [7]: Beneath the surface of Wind Cave National Park is the fourth-longest cave in the world. There are five tours on offer, including a candlelight tour.