Small Group Expedition-Max 14       

Experience the legendary American West like never before on this exclusive small group expedition, limited to just 13 guests for a truly personal, immersive, and unforgettable journey.

From the iconic faces of Mount Rushmore National Memorial to the rugged, otherworldly beauty of Badlands National Park, this adventure places you right in the heart of America’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Feel the vast openness of the plains, watch for roaming wildlife, and take in sweeping views that seem to stretch on forever. Traveling aboard a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter, you’ll wind through scenic backroads, discover hidden gems, and stop at breathtaking viewpoints that larger groups simply pass by.

Stand in awe before the towering Crazy Horse Memorial, where a powerful story is still being carved into the mountainside. Step back in time as you ride the historic Black Hills Central Railroad, hearing the whistle echo through the hills just as it did over a century ago. Stroll the lively streets of Deadwood, where legends, outlaws, and gold rush history come to life around every corner.

Then, feel your sense of adventure come alive in Custer State Park as you set out on a thrilling buffalo jeep safari, getting remarkably close to massive bison herds and other wildlife in their natural habitat—an experience few ever forget.

From peaceful moments under wide open skies to heart-pounding encounters with nature and history, this is more than a trip—it’s a front-row seat to the spirit of the American West, filled with unforgettable sights, meaningful connections, and the signature comfort and care that make every Spectrum Tours journey so special.

Activity Level: 2 – Moderate – This trip includes a moderate amount of walking, some uneven terrain in national parks, and periods of standing. Guests should be comfortable walking at a relaxed pace and navigating steps and shuttle boarding with minimal assistance.

Pickup Locations

Meijer – 1801 Marketplace Drive Caledonia (M-6 & Kalamazoo Ave)
Pickup Time: TBD (based on flight schedule)

Includes roundtrip airport transfers to Grand Rapids Airport (GRR)

• Iconic visit to Mount Rushmore including evening lighting ceremony

• Explore the dramatic landscapes of Badlands National Park

• Visit the inspiring Crazy Horse Memorial

• Ride the historic 1880 Train through the Black Hills

• Discover the Wild West in Deadwood with guided tour

• Scenic journey to Devil’s Tower National Monument

• Buffalo Jeep Safari through Custer State Park

• Visit Wind Cave National Park

• Free time in charming Keystone & Hill City

• Travel in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter (small group comfort!)

• Fully escorted by a professional Tour Director

Registration & Confirmation

Once online registration is completed, guests will receive a confirmation email. A valid email address is required at the time of booking, as most trip-related communication is sent electronically. For certain overnight trips, select trip materials may also be sent by postal mail.

Office- Assisted Registration

Guests who prefer to have the Spectrum Tours office complete their registration must provide a completed sign-up form, a working email address and cell phone number, and a deposit payment. Banking information will be securely entered for future automatic payments.

Payment Information

Payments are automatically withdrawn using the payment method provided at registration. Guests will receive an email notification 3–4 days prior to each scheduled withdrawal. Guests who prefer to pay by check must ensure payment is received at least 45 days prior to the final payment due date in order to stop automatic withdrawal.

There are no processing fees for payments made by checking account. A 2.99% processing fee applies to all credit card payments.

By booking, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to Spectrum Tours’ Booking & Payment Policy.

Today your Black Hills experience begins as you arrive in Rapid City and meet your Southwest Adventure Tours tour director. Then continue to your hotel in the heart of the Black Hills near Keystone and check in for a 5-night stay. Take it easy this evening after the long drive and join the group for a welcome dinner.

D

Take a short drive to Badlands National Park for sightseeing and hiking. Hike through the unique geological formations and see the ample wildlife inside the park. After this incredible park, make a stop at world famous Wall Drug for lunch and some free time. Then stop in Rapid City and visit the Prairie Edge Trading Company. There will be time to explore the wonderful shops and art galleries of Rapid City.

Meals: B,L

Start the day with sightseeing of Mt. Rushmore National Memorial. Next board the 1880’s Train (Black Hills Central Railroad) for a historic ride through the Black Hills. Visit Crazy Horse Monument, a colossal but still unfinished project that honors the famous Sioux Warrior.   Enjoy some free time in Keystone to relax and have dinner on your own. Then return to Mt. Rushmore and experience the Evening Lighting Ceremony, a touching and patriotic presentation. The ceremony includes a film with the history of the presidents, the singing of a patriotic song and then all veterans in the audience -- and it is a big audience-- are invited onto the stage to give their name and branch of service. Then the flag is lowered.

Meals: B

This morning travel to Wyoming on your way to Devil's Tower National Monument for touring and a scenic walk around this magnificent monolith. Return to South Dakota and arrive in the notorious old west town of Deadwood for touring. After some free time to explore on your own, return to Keystone

Meals: B

Begin the day by visiting Wind Cave National Park for touring of the caves.  Topside you may see wildlife such as Bison, Elk, Pronghorn and more. Lunch will be on your own today. This afternoon we’ll visit Custer State Park and the State Game Lodge where you will board jeeps for a spectacular Buffalo Jeep Safari through Custer State Park. After viewing a wide variety of wildlife, return to Keystone and join the group for a farewell dinner.

Meals: B,D

We will be departing for home after breakfast