If your dog likes to walk on the wild side, he will definitely enjoy hiking the trails carved out by early pioneers at Custer State Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota. You’re likely to encounter prairie dogs, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and deer on the trails, but the park is most famous for being home to one of the nation’s largest free roaming bison herds. The best way to see them is by driving the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road in the early morning or late evening, just before sunset. The drive usually takes about 45 minutes, but allow plenty of time for traffic delays due to wildlife crossings. If you do encounter a herd of the 2,000-pound animals on the road, it is important for everyone, including Fido, to remain in the vehicle. Afterward, strap on the old feed bag for some hearty eats on the Blue Bell Lodge dining patio.

Tucked among the ponderosa pines beside Grace Coolidge Creek, you’ll find the State Game Lodge, which once served as the ‘Summer White House’ during President Calvin Coolidge’s administration. Now, you and your pup can be a guest of the lodge in one of the property’s 19 pet-friendly cabins. After a restful night’s sleep, take Fido for a morning walk on the adjacent Creekside Trail, then feast on Buffalo Benedict in the lodge’s main dining room.

Hop in an ATV from Mystic Hills Hideaway and explore the South Dakota backcountry on four wheels with your furry co-pilot riding shotgun. The outfitter’s ATVs can accommodate up to four passengers and are street legal, but you’ll want to spend most of your time exploring some of the 650 miles of trails of the Black Hills National Forest. Discover rugged rock formations, canyons, gulches, open grassland parks, streams, and lakes on your adventure. Half-day and full-day rentals are available. Rates start at $320 per vehicle (which can accommodate up to four passengers), and dogs ride for no additional fee. When you need a rest from your day of exploring, make your way into downtown Deadwood to give Fido a taste of the Old West. He can belly up to the bar alongside you at Saloon No. 10, where you can sample one of more than 150 varieties of whiskey.

After a bumpy ride on the trails, you won’t have to travel far to enjoy a good night’s sleep. Mystic Hills Hideaway offers private cabins that have everything you and your nature-loving pup need, including kitchenettes, refrigerators, outdoor grills, picnic tables, and fire pits. Standard cabins feature two Queen beds and a sleeper sofa, so the whole pack can vacation together.

The best way to reach your next destination is via Needles Highway. This windy road offers spectacular views of granite pinnacles, pillars and towers from scenic overlooks on the way to Hill City. Nestled in Black Hills National Forest, this pretty little town is worthy of a pitstop. You can sample a local brew on the patio at Miner Brewing Company before making the 15-minute drive to Mount Rushmore, the most famous attraction in the forest. Unfortunately, the park isn’t particularly pet-friendly, but Fido can still see the sculptures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln from the road. For a rock carving that welcomes dogs, drive half an hour to Crazy Horse Memorial. The impressive monument commemorates the heroic efforts of Crazy Horse, who led the Oglala Lakota to victory in the Battle of Little Bighorn. Large pups are welcome at the outdoor viewing veranda and outdoor exhibits, while small dogs can be carried anywhere.

Hang Fido’s Stetson just a stone’s throw away from Crazy Horse Memorial at this recently renovated home.

Ready for a Road Trip?

If this Ruff Guide to South Dakota preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code CUSTER to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!