Black Hills Overdrive, a huge all-car rally, kicked off today in Rapid City and runs through this Sunday, June 13. The annual get-together, now in its sixth year, attracts hundreds of car enthusiasts from across the U.S. to cruise and enjoy some of the best scenic byways in the nation.

All types of cruisers, street rods and specialty cars participate in the weekend activities that roll through several different Black Hills communities. The ‘home base’ for Overdrive is Rapid City, but the more than 500 spotless vehicles will make guest appearances in Lead, Deadwood, Nemo, Hot Springs, Custer State Park and even Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

One of the premier events of Black Hills Overdrive, a free show and shine, takes place back in Rapid City on Saturday evening, June 12. Several blocks of the downtown district will be closed off to general traffic as the rolling spectacle on wheels fills the streets, opens its doors (and hoods) wide open and welcomes the public to take a look.

Known as ‘Cruiser Night,’ the vehicles will start filling the downtown Rapid City area around 4 p.m. and will remain on display for several hours for folks to admire and talk to the proud owners.

Black Hills Overdrive is just one of the cool car rallies that takes place each year in the region – and it’s no wonder why. The smooth, spiraling roads that meander past pine-covered peaks and through deep dark canyons are enough to satisfy even the most adventurous of drivers.

The natural scenery, the free-roaming wildlife and South Dakota hospitality all make the Black Hills the perfect place for events like this.

Stay tuned this weekend – I’m hoping to catch up with the Overdrive cruisers as they’re out and about in the hills, for some photos. I’ll be sure to share whatever I come up with.