As the oldest city in South Dakota's Pennington County, Hill City attracts canoers, dinosaur aficionados and cavers as well as train buffs seeking a ride on the famous 1880 Black Hills locomotive. There are plenty of accommodations for visitors, ranging from rustic lodges to sleek modern motels. Because tourism is a mainstay of the community, these establishments work hard to maintain high standards of comfort and service.
The Lantern Inn is a small 18-unit property run by Janet and Charlie McKay in a true family style. Pick from single rooms, adjoining rooms, rooms with kitchens or the lone three-bedroom suite. Close to downtown Hill City and in the heart of the Black Hills, the motel is a great starting point — after a complimentary breakfast of coffee, juice and doughnuts — for trips to nearby Mount Rushmore and the Jewel Caves. There is an outdoor pool in the summer and a warm Jacuzzi year-round.
In addition to traditional camping cabins, which have no bathrooms but are close to the bathhouses, Rafter Bar J offers a number of comfortable motel-style cabins that have all the usual amenities while retaining a rustic atmosphere. Hiking and biking trails abound in the surrounding Black Hills National Forest, and there is a large heated swimming pool and a hot tub on the property (closed in winter). Fishing licenses can be obtained from the office, and Sunday Gulch Pond is stocked with rainbow trout. The ranch has a general store and serves a cheap pancake breakfast every morning.
There are two choices of accommodations at Lode Stone: The modernized log cabins or the knotty pine motel rooms. The cabins all have kitchens, and some of the rooms have microwaves and fridges. You'll be greeted by Watson, the dog whose owners will give you tips on local sites and adventures. All the rooms and cabins are tucked away in the woods, and you will have a chance to see a great deal of wildlife without even leaving your room.
Hill City's Comfort Inn is situated right off Interstate 90, 10 miles from Mount Rushmore. This motel is a logical choice when traveling in winter because of the indoor pool and hot tub. All the rooms are fairly spacious, and whirlpool suites are available. The motel is within walking distance of museums, galleries and gift shops. As is customary with this chain, a free hot breakfast with waffles and biscuits is offered every morning.
