story by LAURA LINDBLOM
A Space to Live Fully
“ designed for lifestyle, craft, and connection”
Just inside the town of Hill City but still feeling close to nature is a 2300 square foot home that overflows with the warmth of potential for hosting and family life. With ample space both indoors and out, and easy access to all that Hill City has to offer, it is a home“ designed for lifestyle, craft, and connection,” said owner Travis Howe. A half-mile walk would get you to Krull’ s Market, and an easy mile would take you to the porch of the famous Alpine Inn for a bacon-wrapped sirloin and a slice of cheesecake. Walk the boardwalk of Hill City’ s vibrant downtown, or take in a sporting event at the school or one of the vendor markets sprinkled throughout the year. Easier yet, lace up your hiking boots and step out the back door into Black Miner Gulch to explore the thousands of acres of National Forest directly adjacent to the nearly oneacre lot, or take a bike out for a spin on the Mickelson, a stone’ s-throw away.
Travis Howe, his wife, and their two kids relocated to Hill City about 14 years ago, when his kids were middle-school aged. Originally from the Winner area, they always loved the Black Hills and were able to put down some roots in a welcoming community.
“ What originally drew us to this property was the rare combination of convenience, outdoor access, and privacy,” he continued.“ You’ re out in the wilderness but you’ re still close to town, central to all of the scenery, and Custer State Park, and close to Rapid …. Being close to schools for our kids was important, and having immediate access to the Mickelson Trail added a lifestyle element that’ s hard to replicate …. You could hike every weekend for several years and still not run out of hiking trails.”
He continued,“ With open views, no neighbors behind us, and small fishing ponds nearby, the setting offered both serenity and everyday practicality,” and he has great memories of fishing for trout in the nearby lakes with his daughter. Outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike are sure to be in their element on this little gem of a property.
“ Wildlife is a constant presence here,” said Travis, with frequent sightings of elk and deer, as well as bald eagles and other raptors.“ It creates a sense of connection to nature that’ s increasingly difficult to find so close to town.”
“ Some of the most meaningful memories here revolve around hosting and connection,” Travis said.
And it is a home and property simply made for hosting, with an open and spacious floor plan and luxurious kitchen, perfect for preparing lavish spreads and serving and making people feel at home. Walkouts to the patio and the backyard help to create a seamless transition from outdoors to indoors, inviting full enjoyment of the house and yard. The stunning interior finishes feature rustic elements that still feel bright and modern, and the luxury vinyl plank flooring creates a polished but durable space to hold up to years of living and gathering. The kitchen is a dream, with stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, and granite countertops that have helped with their share of hosting.
20 Down Country Roads March / April 2026