It takes about a week to experience (close to) everything this natural gem offers. But even if you’ve only got an afternoon, you can accomplish a lot at Sylvan Lake and Wildlife Loop Road. The first has served as a Nicholas Cage movie set, the latter as one of America’s greatest bison-viewing destinations.

With more than 200 miles of mapped passageways, Jewel Cave National Monument is one of the longest-known caves in the world. Take a ranger-led excursion and you’ll see the wild rock formations that make Jewel Cave a truly stunning national park site.

Dynamite and jack hammers aren’t the tools of choice for many artists, except for the 400 men and women who carved the presidents faces from stone. Meet George, Tom, Teddy, and Abe on a tour of this national treasure.

Burgers, craft brews, fish, chips, and more: downtown Custer’s dining is for travelers with impeccable taste. Learn about everything from vegan eats at Sage Creek Grille to local-grown bison patties at Black Hills Burger & Bun.