DINOSAUR PARK
Located at 940 Skyline Drive in Rapid City, Dinosaur Park is one of the area’ s original tourist attractions. It sits on a ridge of sandstone that encircles the Black Hills. Along this ridge, dinosaurs of the Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous periods have been found. View the seven lifesized, concrete replicas of monstrous prehistoric reptiles that inhabit the park. There is also a visitor center, gift shop and cafe. The park has been open to the public since 1936. Not far from the park, dinosaur footprints have been found. As you stand at Dinosaur Park, take in the spectacular 100mile views. Looking to the east, you can see the South Dakota Badlands. Dinosaur Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a trailhead for hiking and biking on the Skyline Wilderness Trail.
POET’ S TABLE
The writings of those who have been there before, some dating back many years, are left in a wooden bureau by a table and chairs. From Sylvan Lake, take the Harney Peak Trail 4 trailhead. Look for a leaning birch tree that points up the slope. At the top, climb over some rocks on the left and find the small alcove in the rocks.
JENNY GULCH
Jenny Gulch, located on the west side of Pactola Reservoir, is a local favorite spot to jump off the cliffs into the cool, clear waters of Pactola Lake. Boating, picknicking, swimming and snorkeling are popular activities in the gulch. It can be reached by boat or by hiking.
36 Black Hills Adventure Guide 2025