Overview

Founded during the great Gold Rush of 1876 which took place in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, the city of Lead (pronounced Leed) continues to be the focal point of gold in the Black Hills. The city of Lead sits high in the Black Hills, sitting precariously on the surrounding steep inclines formed by the fascinating geography of the area. There are elegant Victorian mansions, as reminder of the early days of gold mining, old western fashioned storefronts, and quaint little miners' homes to view, visit and enjoy.

Location

Lead is located in western South Dakota, in the Black Hills near the Wyoming state line.

Services/Amenities

Lead, South Dakota is a great place from which to base your exploration of the Northern Black Hills region. The small town has about half-dozen hotels and bed and breakfasts. Combine that with interesting, one of a kind restaurants, unique attractions, parks and museums, and you will find something to do and see no matter when you visit.

Activities

The activities are many and varied. In addition to the many wonders and attractions in the Black Hills Region, there are mountain trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horse back riding. The George S. Mickelson Trail, which runs from Edgemont to Deadwood, runs through the city. You will also find several man made lakes that are wonderful for fishing and swimming, including Sheridan Lake. Spearfish Canyon just a little ways to the north is a great spot for rock climbing.

Come to Lead in the winter and enjoy two full service ski areas, Terry Peak and Mystic Miner.

Attractions

Rich in natural beauty and history, Lead, South Dakota has interesting attractions both right in town and in the surrounding area.

• Homestake Gold Mine
  Before its closing in 2002 Homestake Gold Mine was the oldest, largest and deepest mine in the Western Hemisphere, reaching more than 8000 feet below the town of Lead.
• Black Hills Mining Museum
  This museum has numerous exhibits and activities all showcasing the mining history of the Black Hills Region.
• Historic Homestake Opera House
  The Historic Homestake Opera House and Recreation Center on Main Street in Lead, SD was built in 1914, and was nicknamed "The Jewel of the Black Hills" for its grandeur.
• Crazy Horse Memorial and Mt. Rushmore National Monument are only a little over an hour from Lead on south Hwy 385.

Getting Here

Lead is located just 18 miles southeast of Spearfish, SD. The suggested route is to take I-90 east and then US 85 south. Lead is on the northern edge of the Black Hills Region and as you approach the community you will begin to see how the Black Hills got their name.