Black Hills, Badlands & Yellowstone
Discover the spectacular landscapes of North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming on this unforgettable self-drive adventure. From the iconic Black Hills and Theodore Roosevelt National Park to the geysers of Yellowstone and the majestic peaks of Grand Teton, this carefully crafted itinerary combines breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife and authentic Western hospitality. Along the way, visit the new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and enjoy a memorable stay on a traditional Wyoming ranch.
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Your Itinerary
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Day 19
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Day 19
Day 1 : Denver
Arrive in Denver, the Mile-High City and make your way to your downtown hotel for a 1-night stay. Depending on your arrival time, explore Denver’s revitalised LoDo district or browse the shops around Union Station.
Day 2 : Cheyenne (105 miles)
Collect your car hire from a downtown depot today and head north to Wyoming. The historic frontier town of Cheyenne is known for its western heritage. Spend the afternoon exploring the State Capitol, Cheyenne Depot Museum or the western-themed downtown.
Day 3 : Rapid City (290 miles)
Continue across Wyoming’s open plains before arriving in South Dakota’s Black Hills. Rapid City will be your base for the next 3-nights, with a welcoming downtown, restaurants and galleries. If you arrive early, take an evening drive into the Black Hills or visit Mount Rushmore for an impressive evening lighting ceremony.
Day 4-5 : Rapid City/Black Hills
Over the next two days, you are perfectly placed to explore all of the Black Hills. Drive the spectacular Needles Highway, passing through towering granite pinnacles and narrow tunnels, explore Custer State Park famous for their annual buffalo round-up, and explore the iconic Mount Rushmore memorial and imposing Crazy Horse Memorial. You may also wish to explore nearby historic Deadwood, once the stomping ground of Wild Bill Hickock and Calamity Jane.
Day 6 : Bismarck (300 miles)
Travel north through the Great Plains to North Dakota. Before leaving South Dakota, consider visiting Badlands National Park or the fascinating Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. Arrive in Bismarck, North Dakota’s capital, and enjoy an evening stroll along the Missouri River.
Day 7 : Medora (135 miles)
A short drive today brings you to Medora, nestled amongst the Badlands. This historic town became closely associated with Theodore Roosevelt whose time ranching here led to his passion for conservation. Spend the afternoon exploring the town and you might want to enjoy one of Medora’s famous summer musical performances (June – September).
Day 8 : Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Truly one of America’s hidden gems, Theodore Roosevelt National Park is full of scenic drives through striking Badlands landscapes where bison, wild horses, prairie dogs and bighorn sheep roam. During your stay, visit the remarkable new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, and inspiring architectural landmark celebrating Roosevelt’s conservation legacy.
Day 9 : The Ranch at Ucross (390 miles)
Arrive at The Ranch at Ucross today for a full-board 2-night stay. This beautifully restored working ranch offers an authentic taste of the Great American West. Surrounded by rolling hills and countryside, it’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy western hospitality.
Day 10 : The Ranch at Ucross
You may opt to join some horse riding excursions, fly fishing, explore walking trails or relax and soak up the setting.
Day 11 : Cody (190 miles)
Cross the Bighorn Mountains before arriving in Cody, founded by the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody. Spend the afternoon exploring the lively western town.
Day 12 : Cody
Enjoy free time in Cody today before experiencing one of the town’s most popular traditions – the Cody Nite Rodeo (seasonal) held throughout the summer. Established in 1919, the Cody Stampede rodeo has been held every summer and has established Cody as the only place in the country with a nightly rodeo performance.
Day 13 : Yellowstone National Park (80 miles)
Travel west to America’s first national park. Yellowstone’s geothermal landscape is unlike anywhere else on earth, with bubbling mud pots, colourful hot springs and steaming geysers waiting to be discovered.
Day 14 : Yellowstone National Park
The best way to explore the expanse of Yellowstone is by an organised day tour. We have included a full-day 10-hour tour today. Your tour covers the entire Grand Loop Road, with stops at Lake Yellowstone, Upper and Lower Falls, Canyon Village, Mammoth Hot Springs and Fountain Paint Pots with plenty of stops for wildlife along the way.
Day 15 : Yellowstone National Park
You may opt to explore more of the park independently today. Perhaps drive through Lamar Valley, often referred to as America’s Serengeti.
Day 16 : Jackson (88 miles)
Pass the jagged peaks of the Teton Range as you continue to the lively town of Jackson, famous for its wooden boardwalks, art galleries and iconic elk antler arches. Check in for a 2-night stay.
Day 17 : Grand Teton National Park
Spend the day enjoying some of the best wildlife viewing in the United States at Grand Teton National Park on a wildlife tour. Leaving from Jackson, your tour is led by knowledgeable wildlife biologists, who will guide you to hotspots for bison, elk, pronghorn, moose, osprey, bears, bald eagles and more. Return to Jackson later this afternoon to sample the iconic Million-Dollar Cowboy Bar and plenty of live entertainment around the town.
Day 18 : Rock Springs (185 miles)
Pass wide-open landscapes and high desert scenery before arriving in Rock Springs. The afternoon is yours to relax.
Day 19 : Denver (355 miles)
Your final scenic drive takes you back into Colorado before arriving back into Denver. Return your car hire and spend your final evening enjoying the city’s excellent restaurants, craft breweries and vibrant downtown atmosphere.
Day 19 : Denver departure
Make your way back to Denver airport with unforgettable memories of the Great American West.
