Lead Travel Guide

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Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Lead, located in the South Dakota region of the United States, is a charming city that offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene. Nestled amidst the rolling hills and sprawling plains, Lead is a destination that will captivate visitors with its diverse attractions.

One of the main highlights of Lead is its proximity to the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Just a short drive away, this monumental sculpture features the faces of four of America's most influential presidents carved into the granite cliffs. Witnessing the grandeur of Mount Rushmore up close is a truly awe-inspiring experience that should not be missed.

For nature enthusiasts, Lead is surrounded by stunning landscapes that offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities. The nearby Black Hills National Forest is a haven for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers. Explore the forest's extensive trail system, which winds through dense forests, serene meadows, and sparkling streams. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, including elk, deer, and the elusive mountain lion.

History buffs will delight in Lead's rich mining heritage. The city was once at the center of the Black Hills Gold Rush, and remnants of this era can still be seen today. Visit the Homestake Gold Mine, once the largest and deepest gold mine in North America, and delve into the fascinating history of mining in the region. The Black Hills Mining Museum is also worth a visit, offering a comprehensive look at the industry that shaped Lead.

In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Lead boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to numerous art galleries, showcasing the work of local and regional artists. Explore the unique shops and boutiques in the downtown area, where you can find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and crafts. And when it comes to dining, Lead offers a variety of options to suit every palate, from cozy cafes serving homemade fare to upscale restaurants offering gourmet cuisine.

Alternative names: Population: 3 thous.Area: 2.06 mi²Elevation: 5318 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 44°17'48"N, 103°52'8"W

Location

South DakotaUnited States

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Lead Top Attractions

Lead Attractions - What to See and Explore

Lead offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center, Black Hills Mining Museum, Old Finnish Lutheran Church, Black Hills Gold Rush. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

44°21'8"N • 103°45'50"W
Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center
Visitor center • Science museum • View point
44°21'6"N • 103°46'1"W
Black Hills Mining Museum
Specialty museum • History museum • Museum
Church
Old Finnish Lutheran Church
Old Finnish Lutheran Church is a historic church in Sinking Gardens on E. Main Street in Lead, South Dakota. It was built in 1907 and was added to the National Register in 1985. It was built in 1891 by John Niemi and John Saari.

Day trips

Lead – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Lead, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Crazy Horse Memorial (Custer), Sylvan Lake (Custer State Park), Lincoln Borglum Museum (Keystone).

34 milesS
Mountain carving in progress since 1948
Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer
The Crazy Horse Memorial, located in the Black Hills near Custer, South Dakota, is a monument of profound historical and cultural significance. This colossal mountain carving, dedicated to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse, stands as a testament to the spirit and endurance...
34 milesSE
Natural attraction, Body of water, Park
Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park
Sylvan Lake is a lake located in Custer State Park, in the Black Hills of South Dakota, United States. It was created in 1891 when Theodore Reder built a dam across Sunday Gulch Creek.
35 milesSE
History museum, Museum, Art museum
Lincoln Borglum Museum, Keystone
The Lincoln Borglum Museum is located in the Mount Rushmore National Memorial near Keystone, South Dakota. It features two 125-seat theaters that show a 13-minute movie about Mount Rushmore. A view thought by many to be one of the best is located at Grandview Terrace, above the Museum.
36 milesSE
Sanctuary for slithery creatures
Reptile Gardens, Rapid City
Reptile Gardens is an animal park located south of Rapid City, South Dakota, on the road to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The park is open the first Saturday in March through November 30 each year.
34 milesSE
Park, View point, Monuments and statues
Dinosaur Park, Rapid City
Dinosaur Park is a tourist attraction in Rapid City, South Dakota, United States. Dedicated on May 22, 1936, it contains seven dinosaur sculptures on a hill overlooking the city, created to capitalize on the tourists coming to the Black Hills to see Mount Rushmore.