Yesterday we received an email from one of our travel blog readers that went something like this, “I am thinking of driving to Mt. Rushmore and visiting the Black Hills over Thanksgiving weekend. Many of my co-workers have been saying that it is not worth it to visit at this time of the year. Is that true?”

My short answer is an emphatic “No.” Personally, this is my absolute favorite time of year in the Black Hills. The weather is mild, the waiting lines are practically non-existent and the wildlife is extremely active.

Over the past three weeks or so, I’ve been throughout just about every corner of the Black Hills. It has been perfect for getting out and exploring as the roads are quiet and the trails empty. I’ve even discovered a few new hiking trails that I never knew existed.

With many birds migrating and the four-legged residents preparing for winter, wildlife viewing is in its prime right now. Before this week, I had never seen elk in the Black Hills, other than at Bear Country USA, near Rapid City. Last weekend, I saw more than 30 elk down in Custer State Park. I’ve seen the usual buffalo and antelope, but also the usually shy coyotes and even a few bald eagles.

Here in the Black Hills, summer is our busiest season as families come from near and far to visit and see the sights. The dead of winter also brings in a large crowd for the snow-sports season. The ski hills open up and the trails start to hum with the buzz of snowmobiles.

Granted, I love a fresh-powder day on the ski slopes, but it’s the off-seasons of spring and fall that are the best, in my mind. In fact, all of the photos above are from just the past couple of weeks – this is how the area looks right now.

If you are looking to experience the “real Black Hills” and are hoping to find some peace and quiet. If you want to take your time and really soak in all that the area has to offer. If you just need a get-away for some much needed R&R, this is the perfect time of year. Come to the Black Hills – see for yourself.