Get Ready for the Indoor Arenacross Series: A Thrill-Seeker's Dream

Prepare for an electrifying experience at the 2024/2025 Indoor Arenacross Series, hosted at the James Kjerstad Event Center in Rapid City, SD. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, motorsport enthusiast, or simply someone who loves high-octane action, this event promises a night of heart-pounding excitement you won’t want to miss. Watch fearless riders battle it out on challenging indoor tracks as they showcase their skills and push the limits of speed.

Join the Ski for Light Experience: A Winter Celebration of Skill, Confidence, and Community

Ski for Light is a transformative four-day event that welcomes participants and volunteers from all over the world to experience the thrill of adaptive skiing in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. Whether you're new to skiing or an experienced athlete, Ski for Light offers an opportunity to build confidence, gain new skills, and create unforgettable memories. This event provides a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone—regardless of experience or ability—can feel supported, valued, and empowered.

For Participants: Embrace New Challenges and Build Confidence

Ski for Light is designed to help participants of all experience levels enjoy the winter sports of adaptive skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in a welcoming and supportive environment. No previous experience is required—whether you're a beginner or seasoned skier, our volunteers are here to assist and guide you every step of the way. The event culminates in a fun race on the final day, where participants can showcase their new skills, celebrate their progress, and experience the thrill of achievement.

The Sundance Winter Festival is the ultimate winter event, offering something for everyone to enjoy. With a mix of lively entertainment, exciting competitions, and delicious food, it's a celebration you won’t want to miss. Join us for the fun and make lasting memories with friends and family this winter season!

For those seeking adventure, Ski-Joring is the highlight of the festival. Watch as cowboys on galloping horses pull skiers down Main Street, navigating an obstacle course complete with snow jumps. It’s a one-of-a-kind, action-packed event that you’ll want to experience firsthand!

Participating restaurants across Rapid City are preparing special dishes and menus just for Restaurant Week. By signing up for the Restaurant Week Pass, you'll unlock access to these exclusive deals and culinary creations. It’s the perfect chance to sample a variety of local flavors, from gourmet meals to casual dining favorites, all at discounted prices.

Get ready for the most exciting winter event of the year! Winterfest 2025 in Lead, SD, promises to deliver a weekend filled with fun, adventure, and community spirit. Whether you're a local or visiting, this winter wonderland offers something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendars for a celebration you won't want to miss!

Exciting Winter Activities for All Ages

Winterfest 2025 is packed with thrilling activities that will keep you entertained all weekend long:

• Sled Hills for family fun and snowy excitement
• Pickleball Tournament for a fun and competitive challenge
• Retro Snow Gear Costume Contest to show off your creative winter style
• Lighted Plow Truck Display for a festive and unique experience

Music, Entertainment, and Community Fun

Beyond the winter activities, Winterfest offers a vibrant lineup of entertainment:

• Enjoy the 2nd Annual Mile High Songwriter Series, featuring talented local artists
• Warm up by the Bonfire with friends and family
• Cap off the weekend with an incredible Fireworks Show & VIP Viewing Party

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a Nature Hike to Rankin Ridge!

Kick off your New Year in the most scenic way possible by joining Naturalist Paul Schweitzer for a special New Year’s Eve nature hike to Rankin Ridge, the highest point in Wind Cave National Park. As you hike, you’ll learn about the rich history of Wind Cave and the significance of the Rankin Ridge Fire Tower, while soaking in the stunning winter vistas of the surrounding Black Hills. To top it all off, we’ll celebrate the New Year with a hot cocoa toast at the end of the hike!

Event Details

• Who can come? This hike is open to all ages and skill levels, so families are welcome, and beginners will have no trouble keeping up. Please leave your pets at home.
• Hike Overview: The hike is a one-mile loop, with 250 feet of elevation gain over uneven terrain. Be prepared for winter weather, so wear sturdy hiking boots and warm layers. A water bottle is also recommended.
• Cost: The hike is FREE to attend.
• What to bring: Warm clothing, hiking boots, and a water bottle. Don’t forget to bring a mug for the celebratory hot cocoa at the end!

Location & Parking

The hike will meet at the Rankin Ridge Trailhead in Wind Cave National Park. There is no entrance fee for the park.

Accessibility & Accommodations

There are no amenities at the trailhead, so come prepared for the weather and hike. If you need accommodations or have any special requirements, please reach out to the program manager, Andrea Fountain, at afountain@blackhillsparks.org, and we’ll do our best to meet your needs.

How to Get Involved

Ready to join us? You can secure your spot by registering via this link: Event Tickets.

For any questions or more information, contact Andrea at afountain@blackhillsparks.org.

Ring in the New Year with a First Day Hike at Custer State Park!

Start your New Year off with fresh air and scenic views at Custer State Park! As part of a nationwide tradition, we invite you to join us for our First Day Hike, a fun and rejuvenating way to connect with nature and kickstart 2025. With three hike options catering to all fitness levels, you can choose the one that suits you best and explore the beauty of this South Dakota gem. Whether you're seeking a challenging adventure or a relaxing stroll, there’s a perfect trail waiting for you.

Choose Your Adventure: Hike Options for Every Fitness Level

1. CCC Sawmill Hike (Moderate, 2.2 miles)
For those seeking a more moderate challenge, this hike offers an unforgettable journey through uneven terrain, with breathtaking views of French Creek. Along the way, you’ll learn about the historical significance of the CCC Camp Narrows’ sawmill and hear stories of its enduring legacy.

2. Legion Lake & Badger Hole (Easy to Moderate, 1.7 miles)
This hike is perfect for those who want to enjoy a more leisurely stroll while taking in the scenic beauty of lakeside trails, rock formations, and pine forests. It also offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the natural inspiration that influenced the writings of South Dakota’s poet laureate, Badger Clark.

3. Creekside Stroll (Easy, 1.8 miles - Paved, Wheelchair & Stroller Accessible)
For families and those with limited mobility, the Creekside Stroll provides a smooth, accessible trail that weaves through sunny meadows and peaceful pine forests. It’s a great opportunity to spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep, deer, turkeys, and even bison in their natural habitat.

Top Talent, Top Bulls

This action-packed event features 40 of the top PRCA bull riders, competing against 40 of the most formidable bulls in the world. Watch as these athletes battle it out for the chance to claim a share of the impressive prize pool, making for a night full of excitement, skill, and heart-stopping moments.

Whether you’re a long-time rodeo fan or new to the sport, Rodeo Rapid City Xtreme Bulls is an experience you won’t want to miss. Feel the energy, the excitement, and the intensity of top-tier bull riding.

WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark Resort offers an unforgettable way to ring in the New Year with your loved ones. With waterpark fun, a festive luau buffet, and plenty of island entertainment, this event is sure to be the highlight of your year. Don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate in style — Mahalo and see you at WaTiki®!

Event Highlights - Island Vibes and Fun

Get ready to dance the night away and celebrate with exciting activities throughout the evening:

• Live DJ Performance: Starting at 6:00 PM, groove to island-inspired beats and show off your best hula moves as the party heats up!
• Beach Ball Drop: At 10:00 PM, join in the fun with a spectacular beach ball drop — catch the wave and get ready to welcome 2025 in true island style!