Skogen Kitchen
where granite spires rise abruptly from the forest floor, and tunnels carve through rock walls barely wider than a vehicle. Pair it with a stop at
Sylvan Lake, where short hiking trails circle clear water framed by stone formations. Underground, Jewel Cave
National Monument offers a completely different perspective. As one of the world’s longest known cave systems, it reveals intricate calcite formations and winding chambers that contrast sharply with the open skies above.
WHERE TO STAY Lodging in the Black Hills ranges from rustic to refined, but several properties align particularly well with a patriotic journey. Inside Custer State Park, the
State Game Lodge remains the most historically resonant choice. Built in 1920, it served as President Calvin Coolidge’s “Summer White House” during his stay in the Hills. Today, the lodge maintains its
stone-and-timber character, with rooms and cabins tucked among trees where bison occasionally wander nearby. In Rapid City, Hotel Alex Johnson
offers historic architecture blended with modern updates. Opened in 1928, the property
features Native American and Germanic design influences. Its rooftop venue, Juniper at Vertex Sky Bar, provides panoramic views of the Black Hills — a fitting backdrop for an evening drink after a day on the road. For travelers who prefer to stay
closer to Mount Rushmore itself, the cabins and lodge accommodations in Keystone provide convenience and easy access to both Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park.
WHERE TO EAT In Custer, Black Hills Burger and Bun
Co. is known for its bison burgers — leaner and richer than traditional beef, served without unnecessary embellishment. The setting is casual,
often busy, and consistently well- reviewed by travelers and locals alike. For a more refined dinner, Skogen
Kitchen brings a seasonal, ingredient- driven approach to the Hills. The menu shifts regularly, but dishes are thoughtfully prepared and plated, offering a welcome contrast to the region’s more traditional fare. In Rapid City, Tally’s Silver Spoon
delivers elevated American cuisine in a restored downtown building. It’s a comfortable setting for a longer evening meal, particularly after a day exploring the parks. Closer to Mount Rushmore, Powder
House Lodge Restaurant serves steaks, local game, and hearty American
Vertex Sky Bar at Hotel Alex Johnson
dishes in a rustic lodge atmosphere that suits the landscape. The
restaurant opens for the season in mid-May and
closes in mid-October.
GETTING THERE Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) is the most convenient entry point, with direct flights from several major hubs. From there, a rental car is
essential. The Black Hills are defined by scenic highways and forested backroads that are best experienced by vehicle. Driving in May is particularly
rewarding. Prairie gradually gives way to pine-covered hills, granite formations rise without warning, and the roads remain calm enough to stop for wildlife or simply take in the view.
MAY 2026 | NEWSMAX MAXLIFE 79
SKOGEN KITCHEN/FACEBOOK / HOTEL ALEX JOHNSON/QUINTIN SOLOVIEV / VERTEX SKY BAR/FACEBOOK
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