Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Imagine a place where the latest Harley motorcycles gleam under the South Dakota sun, beckoning you to come closer, seducing you with the possibility of finding your next great ride or the perfect upgrade for your current steed. Our experience there was nothing short of magical, surrounded by innovation and passion, making it impossible not to come away with something cherished.

The spirit of camaraderie on the charity rides is palpable, with each mile ridden contributing to meaningful causes. Riding through the breathtaking beauty of the Black Hills while being part of a collective that’s riding for a cause? It’s an unforgettable harmony of purpose and passion.

Our nights at the Chip were a blend of exhilarating concerts and captivating displays like the Motorcycles as Art exhibit. It's a universe of its own, pulsating with the energy of bikers from every corner, united under the banner of music and motorcycles.

Witnessing daredevils defy gravity, performing stunts that leave you breathless, was a spectacle that etched itself into our Rally lore. It’s where legends meet under the banner of adrenaline, pushing the envelope of what’s possible.

Our ride to Crazy Horse Memorial® was a journey through history, ambition, and respect. Seeing the monumental progress and learning about the legacy left us inspired and humbled, a testament to the indomitable spirit of Native American heroes.

The ride to Devils Tower was a dialogue with the past, marveling at geological wonders and the stories they tell. Each turn towards the monument brought us closer to the sheer awe of nature’s artistry.

Navigating Needles Highway was like dancing with the landscape, its curves a melody, and its vistas a chorus. Riding through tunnels that frame Mount Rushmore provided a perspective both literal and metaphorical, connecting us to the essence of the Black Hills.

Spearfish Canyon whispered secrets through its waterfalls and vistas, inviting us into a world where nature crafts its own symphonies, with each curve of the road a note in this lush, evocative landscape.

The alien beauty of the Badlands was a stark contrast to the lush hills, its raw, untouched vistas offering a ride through the heart of what feels like a different planet. It was a reminder of the diverse tapestry of landscapes the Rally allows one to explore.

The Black Hills and Badlands are littered with mesmerizing sights and routes that beckon to be explored:

• Iconic Monuments: Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial are just the beginning
• Scenic Rides: From Spearfish Canyon to Iron Mountain Road, each ride is a story waiting to be told
• Quiet Escapes: For moments of solitude, dawn rides or local museum visits offer peaceful retreats from the rally's buzz

The Black Hills expanse, covering over 8,000 square miles, is your playground. However, getting here and finding your way around doesn't have to be a maze. Planning your routes in advance is key to a smooth ride. Main arteries such as I-90, Highway 385, and Highway 15 will be your lifelines to the rally and beyond. For those heading to the Buffalo Chip, Fort Meade Way offers a scenic shortcut from I-90, blending great views with swift access.

Embarking on your Sturgis adventure calls for thoughtful preparation. The weather can flip on a dime, and you'll want to stay comfortable and ready for anything. Here's a quick checklist:

• Rain Gear: Essential for sudden weather shifts
• Water: Stay hydrated under the August sun
• Sunscreen: Because sunburns don't suit anyone
• Cash: Handy for places where digital payments don't fly
• Camera: Capture every magnificent moment
• Identification: Keep it on you at all times, along with a photocopy stored safely
• Maps: Service can be spotty, so old-school maps are a great backup

Sturgis is synonymous with exhilarating live performances. The Buffalo Chip and other local venues play host to an impressive roster of bands and artists, guaranteeing memorable nights under the South Dakota sky.

For all newcomers and non-bikers, the Black Hills and Badlands are a veritable paradise of motorcycle riding that brings in thousands of bike enthusiasts every year for the world-famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Scenic rides, like Iron Mountain Road, Needles Highway, the Badlands Loop and Vanocker Canyon, are rites of passage for bikers across the globe.

Expect to see tons of bikes on the road during the Rally. Be prepared to drive slower. Give bikes plenty of space (a bike will need more room to stop in an emergency). And check your blind spots carefully, especially along popular driving routes.

Most of all, keep an open mind and prepare for a good time! There will be visitors from all walks of life, lots of concerts, incredible motorcycles, tasty food and great fun across the entire region. 

There’s always a concert happening during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Whether you’re looking for big-name shows or smaller Main Street gigs, you’re sure to find it in the Black Hills and Badlands.

Drop by spots like the Knuckle Saloon, Iron Horse Saloon, Full Throttle Saloon, Rally Point and Loud American Roadhouse in Sturgis for free concerts daily.

Just outside of Sturgis city limits, the Sturgis Buffalo Chip hosts free entertainment daily at the Big Engine Bar and CrossRoads. You can also catch ticketed, big name acts like every evening on the Wolfman Jack Stage.

There are more than a few reasons why the Black Hills and Badlands are a motorcyclist's dream. With dramatically curvy roads, craggy badlands, sweeping views of granite peaks and an expansive forest, some of the most impressive scenery in the West for motorcycle riders is right here.

The routes range from easy to challenging, so it’s rider’s choice. Take a look at our Motorcycle Map of the region to start planning.

In addition to touring the area on your own, consider joining one of the group rides and experience the best of the region with the best riders. Cruise the Hills with a local to see the lesser known parts of the Black Hills and Badlands and experience every hidden dip and curve. Early birds can take the Director’s Ride or wait later in the week for the Mayor’s Ride and the Legends Ride.

Make sure to stop in at the Black Hills Visitor Information Center at Exit 61 on I-90 to pick up regional maps, motorcycle maps and vacation guides on everything there is to do and see. Talk with the information hosts to get personalized trip recommendations.

Weather in the Black Hills and Badlands can be unpredictable, especially in August. While one day may be sunny and blisteringly hot, the next may bring chilly showers. Large thunderstorms can creep out of nowhere.

Having a change of clothes or wearing layers for inclement weather is recommended. Remember: traffic lines can get especially long and hot! Bring raingear, potable water and sunscreen, especially for long rides and tours in the Badlands area.

As the Rally turns down, it's still the perfect time to be out riding on a motorcycle in the Black Hills and Badlands. You can expect traffic to slow down, the weather to become gradually cooler and the region to be as beautiful as ever.

Though the concerts and vendors pack up, the fall transition makes the perfect time to get out and ride in western South Dakota. If you're aiming to miss the crowds but are interested in the Black Hills riding experience, this is the time of year for you. The fall season is packed full of iconic events. Be sure to stick around, take a few cruises, see a few sights and join in the local fun.

Whether you join in on the Sturgis fun or visit the region afterward, the Black Hills and Badlands riding experience will always stay the same — unparalleled.