Snowmobiling
Black Hills snowmobiling is a popular wintertime activity, featuring a 350-mile network of groomed, mapped and marked trails strictly designated for snowmobile use, and local companies offering rentals and tours.
- 350 miles of designated Black Hills snowmobile trails traverse pine forests, open meadows and climb up to 6,000 feet in elevation for spectacular mountain views.
- Trails officially open December 1; grooming from December 15 – March 31.
- Several local retailers offer snowmobile rentals, with daily fees ranging from $100 - $150.
Overview
The Black Hills is a snowmobiler's dream location with a large network of mapped and marked trails, groomed from December 15 through March 31. This designated network is ranked as one of the top 10 places to ride in the nation, featuring parking, pit stops, and warming shelters. The western region of Black Hills National Forest is a popular spot, including several campgrounds close to trails. For those yearning to break new track, there are very few unavailable locations.
Restricted areas include:
- Wildlife winter ranges/habitat
- Private property
- Cross-country skiing complexes
- Active logging areas
Trail maps and daily conditions are available on South Dakota Game, Fish and Park’s website, or by calling: (800) 445 – 3474.
Where To Go Snowmobiling
Try some of these designated locations in Black Hills National Forest:
Central Hills (Rapid City)
- Blue Fox Campground
Location – South Fork of Rapid Creek
Trails open from Dec 15 – March 31
Warming shelter - Deerfield Reservoir Complex – Dutchman Campground
Location – 20 miles west of Hill City
Water, vault toilets - Ditch Creek Campground
Location – just south of Deerfield Reservoir
Potable water, vault toilets
Northwestern Hills (Sundance, Wyoming)
- Cook Lake Campground
Location – Cook Lake shore; nearest town, Aladdin, WY
No Water
Northern Hills (Spearfish) region of Black Hills National forest is another popular area.
Rentals and Fees
Black Hills snowmobile rentals are available in several regional towns and cities including Sturgis, Custer, Spearfish, Hill City, Deadwood, and many more. Retailers offer everything from half-day and single-day machine rentals to weekend, holiday, or week long rentals, including equipment and your choice from a selection of name brand sleds, single or double occupancy.
Daily rental fees range from $100 - $150 dollars, with weekend and holiday rentals ranging from $150 - $250.
Hire A Guide
Some Black Hills lodges and resorts offer winter vacation packages that incorporate snowmobile rental and a guided tour. Prices vary according to the duration of your stay and tour length.
South Dakota Snowmobiling Laws
- No reckless driving
- Licensed snowmobiles only. (Out-of-state licensed machines allowed. $40, 5-day non-resident SD licenses available.)
- Operators under 14 may not cross roadways without immediate adult supervision.
- Snowmobiles may not cross Interstate highways
- Check South Dakota’s laws for further information.
South Dakota Snowmobiling Safety
- Operate mechanically sound machines
- Wear a helmet and goggles
- Know the terrain; ride conditions within your comfort zone
- Check the forecast
- Avoid riding alone
- NEVER CHASE WILD ANIMALS
- Snowmobiles are loud - do not ride machines with altered muffler systems to make them louder
- Drowning is a leading cause of snowmobile fatalities – always know the ice conditions
View the local providers:
Related providers:
Other Online Resources
A useful directory of stores, trails, clubs, and much more for the snowmobiling enthusiast.
Big Sky Montana skiing and snowmobile trips.
Nothing compares to the Yellowstone snowmobile or snowcoach experience.
The Westwide Avalanche Network is a resource for snowmobilers on weather, avalanche advisory in certain areas, and previous snowmobile related accidents.
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