Northern Black Hills
Lead Travel Guide
Mining history at a mile-high mountain town.
Photo: August Schwerdfeger · CC BY-SA 4.0
Northern Black Hills
Dig into one of the Black Hills’ deepest stories.
Lead grew around the Homestake Mine, a landmark that shaped the region and now supports world-class underground science.
Mountain trails, historic neighborhoods and close proximity to Deadwood and Terry Peak give the city a distinct identity in every season.
- Best for
- Science, history & mountain recreation
- Ideal stay
- 1–2 days
- Region
- Northern Black Hills
Start exploring
Unmissable Lead experiences
Photo: David Brossard · CC BY-SA 3.0
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Science & history
Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center
See the Open Cut and learn about underground science.
Photo: James St. John · CC BY 2.0
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Explore local
Find your Lead favorites
Shop, dine, stay and play through locally focused guides featuring trusted area businesses.
Photo: August Schwerdfeger · CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: August Schwerdfeger · CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: August Schwerdfeger · CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: August Schwerdfeger · CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: August Schwerdfeger · CC BY-SA 4.0
Stay nearby
Make Lead your home base
Compare welcoming places to stay and keep your favorite options together in the Rushmore Travel planner.
Find places to stayWorth planning around
Signature events in Lead
Build your getaway
Ready to plan Lead?
Save the city, compare places and organize every stop in your Rushmore Travel planner.