The Black Hills of South Dakota are not highly populated, with just over 2,000 people living there, according to the 2000 Census. There is a lot to do, especially outdoors in and around the town, so people can get exercise while enjoying nature. Deadwood was originally part of Native American territory and was settled when people came searching for gold. The settlers found burned trees when they first arrived, and so they named the area Deadwood.
Mount Rushmore
Any trip to Deadwood should include a visit to Mount Rushmore. The famous engraved mountain is just south of Deadwood. Get some exercise in the national park, which has several trails to walk along, all while being overshadowed by four of the nation's most important presidents. The park is open every day during the year, except for Christmans Day. Admission to the park is free; there is only a parking fee, which costs $10 per vehicle and is good for a full year.
Horseback Riding
Enjoy the outdoors and get a different type of workout as you ride on horseback through different trails and caves, learning about the history, geology and animal life in the Black Hills of South Dakota. You do not need to have experience riding horses, as training is available; just be sure to wear closed-toed shoes. Tours generally last about two hours with the tour company Blacktail Horseback Tours, and the cost is $35 per person.
Walking Tours
Deadwood provides many places to get some exercise outdoors. There are trails leading throughout the Black Hills. The Mickelson Trail can seem almost endless as is spans from Deadwood to Edgemont, SD, for a total length of 109 miles. The trail is easy to navigate, but there is limited cell phone service. The trailhead from Deadwood can be found near the old railway depot on Sherman Street, according to the South Dakota State Parks website. Camping, food, drinking water, bathrooms and lodging are available at the trailhead.
Golf and Skiing
Deadwood provides seasonal exercise with golf courses for the summer and skiing for the winter. Terry Peak Ski Area also has downhill mountain biking courses in the summer, as well. There are 27 different ski trails to go along with a half-pipe, and five chair lifts. The golf course, Elkhorn Ridge, provides the option of a nine- or 18-hole golf outing. The full 18 holes costs $50 and the nine-hole course costs $32. There is also a driving range available. Golfing, skiing or mountain biking provides a beautiful view of the Black Hills.
Adventure Trips
Go off-trail without a guide and explore Deadwood and its surroundings with a GPS unit. SmartAlec Adventures provides the GPS units that let you know where you are while also telling you stories about the history of the area. The GPS guide can take you to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Wind Cave National Park and other places, according to the website. One day with the GPS unit costs $35.
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