Response from: Laura (Check me out!)

Josh - I agree with you that the natural beauties of the Black Hills are well worth a visit to the area even if you have no interest in gambling, motorcycles, or history. This time of the year (Fall) is particularly wonderful, as the changing leaves against a backdrop of dark pines causes already beautiful scenery to become simply stunning. I particularly recommend a drive through Spearfish Canyon or a hike up one of our granite peaks. Harney Peak and Bear Butte have excellent trails and incredible views. We also have the Mickelson Trail which winds from Deadwood to Edgemont, 114 miles of easy trails that take you through some of the most beautiful spots in the Black Hills. You can hike, ride bicycles (offered for rent at many of the trailheads), or even ride horses along the trail. And, if you can’t help yourself, you can stop at some of the cities along the way. Hill City is especially worthwhile if you’re looking for something a little less ordinary. The town is host to dozens of artists who have been inspired by the sights around them, working in every medium imaginable. As you mentioned, Custer State Park is a wonderful place to visit to see much of the wildlife that populates the hills, though don’t be surprised if you get held up by a curious bison. There are also several caves in the area that offer tours for people of every experience level, from casual strollers to expert cavers. (Jewel Cave is my favorite, though Wind Cave and some of the smaller caves are also impressive.) I could go on and on about all the things I love in the Black Hills, but perhaps I should just encourage folks to come out here and see for themselves. For more information on some of the places I mentioned, you can check out the following links:
http://www.spearfish.com/canyon/

http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/150511/harney-peak.html

http://www.sdgfp.info/Parks/Regions/NorthernHills/BearButte.htm

http://www.mickelsontrail.com

http://www.nps.gov/jeca/
(Jewel Cave)

Response from: Shawn (Check me out!)

I'd say there are more attractions than tourist traps, but what do I know, I only live here.