The Best Place to Live in the Black Hills
Life in Boulder Canyon
Get details about the area and a "day-in-the-life" overview.
Nearby Towns and Cities
Deadwood
Deadwood, with a year-round population under 1,500, combines small-town charm with the excitement of a national tourist destination. The city was founded in 1876 during the gold rush, and its architecture reflects that history with restored Victorian buildings and brick-paved streets. Although Deadwood is known for its restaurants, saloons, casinos, and other entertainment options, you’ll also find unique shops and art studios to visit.
Sturgis
Sturgis is home to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which swells the town’s population from around 7,000 people to as many as half a million visitors. Throughout the rest of the year, Sturgis offers breweries, bars, restaurants, and historical sites to explore. Locals can buy their groceries at Dakotamart, a regional store brand, and find essentials at the pharmacy in town.
Spearfish
Spearfish is a larger city about 15 minutes from Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon. It’s best known for outdoor recreation. Spearfish Creek is a popular spot for freshwater fishing, and Spearfish Canyon lets you explore natural waterfalls, native wildlife, and seasonal foliage. The city has several major retail outlets, including a Walmart Supercenter, Safeway grocery, and Walgreens.
Rapid City
Another reason Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon is the best place to live in the Black Hills: it’s within easy driving distance of Rapid City. With a population of over 70,000, Rapid City is the second-largest town in South Dakota (behind Sioux Falls). Here, you’ll find the amenities of a modern metropolis with museums, art galleries, kids’ activities, and holiday events. Food trucks sell curb-side cuisine throughout the city during the summer. There are also local retailers and national chains for shopping, like Target, Sam’s Club, SCHEELS, and Lowes.
A Day in the Life at Boulder Canyon
Discover the experiences that are waiting for you.
Walk, Hike, Bike, and Run
Bear Butte Summit & State Park. Climb the summit to see four surrounding states. Hike or bike your way along Centennial Trail, which connects to Wind Cave National Park.
Black Hills National Forest. Directly from Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon, you can access acres of forest land with a well-established trail system.
Crow Peak Trail. Pack a lunch and take this out-and-back trail for views of Spearfish and Bear Butte.
George S. Mickelson Trail. Follow a wide and gentle path well suited for walkers, bike riders, hikers, and horseback riders.
Lookout Mountain Park. Lookout Mountain has over 750 acres of park land. Hike, bike, or horseback ride through ponderosa pines, bur oaks, and ironwood.
Fishing and Watersports
Pactola Lake. The lake has spectacular scenery along with fishing, kayaking, and SCUBA diving a short drive from your home.
Sheridan Lake. 15 miles west of Rapid City, Sheridan Lake is an excellent spot to angle for trout, pike, perch, bass and other pan fish. You can also go ice fishing on the lake in the winter.
Spearfish Canyon. Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon is minutes from the largest and best streams for fishing in the area. Catch wild rainbow, brown, and brook trout in an incredible natural setting.
Spearfish Waterpark. Popular with families, the waterpark at the Spearfish Recreation & Aquatics Center includes a 400-gallon dump bucket, lazy river, water slides, splash pad, and zero entry (kiddy pool) area.
Sylvan Lake. A highlight of Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake offers a swimming beach, non-motorized boat rentals, fishing, hiking trails, and the best rock climbing in the region.
ATV and Snowmobile
Trails at the Black Hills National Forest. Ride your vehicle from Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon onto 416 miles of snowmobile trails or 700+ miles of off-road vehicle trails.
Ski / Snowboard
Deer Mountain Village Tubing. The four-lane tubing hill at Deer Mountain Village is one of the longest in the country, with a drop in elevation equal to twelve stories.
Terry Peak Ski Area. Enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing less than one half-hour away.
Exercise
Flex Fitness is a popular local gym in Sturgis that offers weights, CrossFit, and personal training.
History and Exploration
Adams Museum. This nearly 100-year-old museum in Deadwood preserves and highlights the region’s history.
Black Hills Caverns. View rock formations “like you’ve never seen” with either the “adventure” or “crystal” tour, then check out the gift and rock shop.
Black Hills Mining Museum. Take a tour of a recreated underground gold mine and experience what it was like to prospect for gold 100 years ago.
Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. The museum showcases the history of motorcycling in an educational and engaging way, with a rotating display of motorcycles, memorabilia, art, and interactive displays.
Golf (Sample Itinerary)
Morning: Boulder Canyon Golf Club offers the region’s most welcoming experience, entertaining design, and inspiring setting. It’s also minutes from your front door to your tee time – another reason Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon is the best place to live in the Black Hills.
Warm up on the driving range or practice green. Then, head out for your round. As you walk the course, take a moment to soak in the vibrant fairways, wild meadows, and towering ponderosa pines. There isn’t much better in life than playing the game you love in a place you love.
Afternoon: Unwind with a view of the Black Hills National Forest. The club has an expansive deck looking out over the horizon, and it’s an excellent place to enjoy a meal or drink.
Evening: Good times at the club or on the deck have a habit of rolling into unforgettable nights. Socialize with neighbors who’ve made their way over, or watch the big game on one of seven TV screens. In the future, we will launch The 605 Grill at Boulder Canyon: a destination restaurant and bar we expect to become the area’s premier dining venue.
Other great selections: In the spring, summer, and fall, plan a group outing or corporate golf event at Boulder Canyon. Also, winter weather doesn’t mean the end of golf season: coming in 2025, we will open an all-new Golf Shop and destination restaurant and bar, The 605 Grill at Boulder Canyon. The 605 Grill will include indoor golf simulators for year-round play and off-season golf leagues.
Retail and Dining (Sample Itinerary)
Morning: Head to Caverna Coffee & Bistro for espresso, tea, and breakfast bites, or stop in Sturgis at Uncle Louie’s for diner favorites. Go for a massage, manicure, or pedicure at Cedar Rose Spa.
Afternoon: Drive down 14a through Boulder Canyon. Take in the soul-stirring beauty of the place you call home. Then, continue on to Deadwood. Lunch options abound, including Jacobs Brewhouse and Grocer. In town, you’ll find clothing and kitsch retailers. Be sure to peruse the works of world-renowned artist, Scott Jacobs, at Jacobs Gallery.
Evening: Our region offers a variety of “foodie” experiences, farm-to-table dining options, and local favorites. Check out Deadwood Social Club, Jake’s Fine Dining, and Hickok’s Tavern at Rocksino by Hard Rock, all located in Deadwood. Also explore Antunez in Spearfish, Loud American Roadhouse in Sturgis, and Murphy’s Pub & Grill in Rapid City.
Other great selections: In Deadwood, Lee Street Station Café, The Lodge at Deadwood, and Legends Steakhouse; in Spearfish, Farmhouse Bistro & Bar, Sawyer Brewing Company, and Steerfish Steak and Smoke.
Entertainment and Events (Sample Itinerary)
Morning: One of the things that makes Boulder Canyon the best place to live in the Black Hills: there’s always something to do, even in winter. Start with a drive down the 19-mile stretch of Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. Take in the stark beauty of Spearfish Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Roughlock Falls.
Afternoon: Continue on to The Clubhouse at Spearfish. Hone your golf game in any weather with one of several simulators. Grab a bite at the grill, and dive into the facilities’ virtual sports and yard games.
Evening: Deadwood has a wealth of entertainment, casino, and dining choices. Explore Saloon 10 for music and Old West historical reenactments, or go for sports betting, table games, and slots. Venues include Cadillac Jack’s, The Lodge at Deadwood, Rocksino by Hard Rock, and Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort.
Spring and summer events: Get together with neighbors for a casual day trip or night out. Look into the Days of ‘76 Rodeo, Kool Deadwood Nights, Downtown Friday Nights in Spearfish, and Deadwood Jam.
Fall and winter events: Check out the Wild West Songwriters Festival, the Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival in Lead, Deadweird Halloween, the Festival of Lights around Thanksgiving, the Food, Wine, and Beer Festival, and our own version of Mardi Gras Weekend.
National Parks (Sample Itinerary)
Morning: Take a beautiful drive about one hour south to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. While the park opens early, it’s best to arrive before 9:00 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m. to avoid the crowds. Alternatively, plan your visit at night for the evening lighting ceremony.
Afternoon: Admire the artistry and pageantry of one of America’s great works. In giant proportions, Mount Rushmore depicts the faces of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Bring a picnic lunch, or eat at Carver’s in the park. Then take a tour, grab a scoop of Thomas Jefferson’s ice cream, and hike the presidential trail or (time permitting) the Blackberry Trail.
Evening: Head to Skogen in Custer for an unforgettable meal, or return to Boulder Canyon for a rest-filled night.
Other great selections: Badlands National Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Devil’s Tower, Jewel Cave National Monument, and Wind Cave National Park.
Motorcycling
Blacktop roads lead you from Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon to some of the country’s most magnificent rides. For details and route suggestions, check out our area guide, “The Best Place to Live for Motorcyclists”.
Our location also puts you within minutes of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Held every summer, this 10-day event draws somewhere between 250,000 and 500,000 people to the Black Hills. The rally celebrates motorcycle culture, history, and fraternity. Travel into town, be part of the fun, and head back home at your convenience.
Walk, Hike, Bike, and Run
Bear Butte Summit & State Park. Climb the summit to see four surrounding states. Hike or bike your way along Centennial Trail, which connects to Wind Cave National Park.
Black Hills National Forest. Directly from Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon, you can access acres of forest land with a well-established trail system.
Crow Peak Trail. Pack a lunch and take this out-and-back trail for views of Spearfish and Bear Butte.
George S. Mickelson Trail. Follow a wide and gentle path well suited for walkers, bike riders, hikers, and horseback riders.
Lookout Mountain Park. Lookout Mountain has over 750 acres of park land. Hike, bike, or horseback ride through ponderosa pines, bur oaks, and ironwood.
Fishing and Watersports
Pactola Lake. The lake has spectacular scenery along with fishing, kayaking, and SCUBA diving a short drive from your home.
Sheridan Lake. 15 miles west of Rapid City, Sheridan Lake is an excellent spot to angle for trout, pike, perch, bass and other pan fish. You can also go ice fishing on the lake in the winter.
Spearfish Canyon. Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon is minutes from the largest and best streams for fishing in the area. Catch wild rainbow, brown, and brook trout in an incredible natural setting.
Spearfish Waterpark. Popular with families, the waterpark at the Spearfish Recreation & Aquatics Center includes a 400-gallon dump bucket, lazy river, water slides, splash pad, and zero entry (kiddy pool) area.
Sylvan Lake. A highlight of Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake offers a swimming beach, non-motorized boat rentals, fishing, hiking trails, and the best rock climbing in the region.
ATV and Snowmobile
Trails at the Black Hills National Forest. Ride your vehicle from Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon onto 416 miles of snowmobile trails or 700+ miles of off-road vehicle trails.
Ski / Snowboard
Deer Mountain Village Tubing. The four-lane tubing hill at Deer Mountain Village is one of the longest in the country, with a drop in elevation equal to twelve stories.
Terry Peak Ski Area. Enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing less than one half-hour away.
Exercise
Flex Fitness is a popular local gym in Sturgis that offers weights, CrossFit, and personal training.
History and Exploration
Adams Museum. This nearly 100-year-old museum in Deadwood preserves and highlights the region’s history.
Black Hills Caverns. View rock formations “like you’ve never seen” with either the “adventure” or “crystal” tour, then check out the gift and rock shop.
Black Hills Mining Museum. Take a tour of a recreated underground gold mine and experience what it was like to prospect for gold 100 years ago.
Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. The museum showcases the history of motorcycling in an educational and engaging way, with a rotating display of motorcycles, memorabilia, art, and interactive displays.
Golf (Sample Itinerary)
Morning: Boulder Canyon Golf Club offers the region’s most welcoming experience, entertaining design, and inspiring setting. It’s also minutes from your front door to your tee time – another reason Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon is the best place to live in the Black Hills.
Warm up on the driving range or practice green. Then, head out for your round. As you walk the course, take a moment to soak in the vibrant fairways, wild meadows, and towering ponderosa pines. There isn’t much better in life than playing the game you love in a place you love.
Afternoon: Unwind with a view of the Black Hills National Forest. The club has an expansive deck looking out over the horizon, and it’s an excellent place to enjoy a meal or drink.
Evening: Good times at the club or on the deck have a habit of rolling into unforgettable nights. Socialize with neighbors who’ve made their way over, or watch the big game on one of seven TV screens. In the future, we will launch The 605 Grill at Boulder Canyon: a destination restaurant and bar we expect to become the area’s premier dining venue.
Other great selections: In the spring, summer, and fall, plan a group outing or corporate golf event at Boulder Canyon. Also, winter weather doesn’t mean the end of golf season: coming in 2025, we will open an all-new Golf Shop and destination restaurant and bar, The 605 Grill at Boulder Canyon. The 605 Grill will include indoor golf simulators for year-round play and off-season golf leagues.
Retail and Dining (Sample Itinerary)
Morning: Head to Caverna Coffee & Bistro for espresso, tea, and breakfast bites, or stop in Sturgis at Uncle Louie’s for diner favorites. Go for a massage, manicure, or pedicure at Cedar Rose Spa.
Afternoon: Drive down 14a through Boulder Canyon. Take in the soul-stirring beauty of the place you call home. Then, continue on to Deadwood. Lunch options abound, including Jacobs Brewhouse and Grocer. In town, you’ll find clothing and kitsch retailers. Be sure to peruse the works of world-renowned artist, Scott Jacobs, at Jacobs Gallery.
Evening: Our region offers a variety of “foodie” experiences, farm-to-table dining options, and local favorites. Check out Deadwood Social Club, Jake’s Fine Dining, and Hickok’s Tavern at Rocksino by Hard Rock, all located in Deadwood. Also explore Antunez in Spearfish, Loud American Roadhouse in Sturgis, and Murphy’s Pub & Grill in Rapid City.
Other great selections: In Deadwood, Lee Street Station Café, The Lodge at Deadwood, and Legends Steakhouse; in Spearfish, Farmhouse Bistro & Bar, Sawyer Brewing Company, and Steerfish Steak and Smoke.
Entertainment and Events (Sample Itinerary)
Morning: One of the things that makes Boulder Canyon the best place to live in the Black Hills: there’s always something to do, even in winter. Start with a drive down the 19-mile stretch of Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. Take in the stark beauty of Spearfish Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Roughlock Falls.
Afternoon: Continue on to The Clubhouse at Spearfish. Hone your golf game in any weather with one of several simulators. Grab a bite at the grill, and dive into the facilities’ virtual sports and yard games.
Evening: Deadwood has a wealth of entertainment, casino, and dining choices. Explore Saloon 10 for music and Old West historical reenactments, or go for sports betting, table games, and slots. Venues include Cadillac Jack’s, The Lodge at Deadwood, Rocksino by Hard Rock, and Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort.
Spring and summer events: Get together with neighbors for a casual day trip or night out. Look into the Days of ‘76 Rodeo, Kool Deadwood Nights, Downtown Friday Nights in Spearfish, and Deadwood Jam.
Fall and winter events: Check out the Wild West Songwriters Festival, the Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival in Lead, Deadweird Halloween, the Festival of Lights around Thanksgiving, the Food, Wine, and Beer Festival, and our own version of Mardi Gras Weekend.
National Parks (Sample Itinerary)
Morning: Take a beautiful drive about one hour south to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. While the park opens early, it’s best to arrive before 9:00 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m. to avoid the crowds. Alternatively, plan your visit at night for the evening lighting ceremony.
Afternoon: Admire the artistry and pageantry of one of America’s great works. In giant proportions, Mount Rushmore depicts the faces of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Bring a picnic lunch, or eat at Carver’s in the park. Then take a tour, grab a scoop of Thomas Jefferson’s ice cream, and hike the presidential trail or (time permitting) the Blackberry Trail.
Evening: Head to Skogen in Custer for an unforgettable meal, or return to Boulder Canyon for a rest-filled night.
Other great selections: Badlands National Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Devil’s Tower, Jewel Cave National Monument, and Wind Cave National Park.
Motorcycling
Blacktop roads lead you from Apple Springs at Boulder Canyon to some of the country’s most magnificent rides. For details and route suggestions, check out our area guide, “The Best Place to Live for Motorcyclists”.
Our location also puts you within minutes of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Held every summer, this 10-day event draws somewhere between 250,000 and 500,000 people to the Black Hills. The rally celebrates motorcycle culture, history, and fraternity. Travel into town, be part of the fun, and head back home at your convenience.