Long view of South Dakota mountain landscape

How to Get to Deadwood, South Dakota

Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Deadwood is a destination worth the trip. Whether you’re flying in, taking a bus, or hitting the open road, here’s everything you need to know about getting to this historic town.

Traveling to Deadwood By Air

Rear view of airplane on runway bound for Deadwood, South Dakota

Rapid City Airport (RAP)

Located about an hour from Deadwood, Rapid City Regional Airport is the nearest major airport. It offers direct flights from several major cities across the U.S.

Rear angled view of airplane on runway at night with city lights in the distance

Denver International Airport (DEN)

If you’re flying into Denver, it’s about a 6-hour drive to Deadwood. This can be a great option for travelers looking to take a scenic road trip through the Rockies and across the plains.

Traveling to Deadwood By Bus or Train

Rear view of bus traveling down a road toward Deadwood, South Dakota

Jefferson Bus Lines

This regional bus service offers routes to and from Deadwood, providing an affordable and convenient travel option.

Train on tracks traveling toward Deadwood, South Dakota

Amtrak Empire Builder (Indirect)

Currently, there is no direct train service to Deadwood. However, travelers can take the Amtrak Empire Builder to Minneapolis or Chicago and then connect to bus services or rental cars to continue to Deadwood.

Driving Directions to Deadwood

If you prefer to drive, Deadwood is accessible from several directions. Here are step-by-step directions depending on where you’re coming from.

  • From Rapid City, SD (Approx. 1 Hour)

    1. Take I-90 W from Rapid City.
    2. Follow I-90 W for about 45 miles.
    3. Take Exit 30 for SD-34/SD-79 toward Sturgis.
    4. Continue on SD-34/SD-79 W for about 12 miles to Deadwood.

  • From Denver, CO (Approx. 6 Hours)

    1. Take I-25 N from Denver.
    2. After about 200 miles, merge onto US-85 N via Exit 17 toward Torrington.
    3. Follow US-85 N to Newcastle, WY, then merge onto US-16 E toward South Dakota.
    4. Continue on US-16 E and take US-85 N for about 40 miles to Deadwood.

  • From Sioux Falls, SD (Approx. 5 Hours)

    1. Take I-90 W from Sioux Falls.
    2. Continue on I-90 W for approximately 340 miles.
    3. Take Exit 30 for SD-34/SD-79 toward Sturgis.
    4. Follow SD-34/SD-79 W for about 12 miles to reach Deadwood.

  • From Billings, MT (Approx. 4.5 Hours)

    Take I-90 E from Billings.

    Follow I-90 E into South Dakota, passing through Wyoming.

    Take Exit 30 for SD-34/SD-79 toward Sturgis.

    Continue on SD-34/SD-79 W to Deadwood.

Rearview mirror of a car traveling down the road with a person's hand outside the window

Northern Black Hills Map


Click on the area map below to plan your Black Hills vacation. Many of South Dakota’s major attractions like Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore are located near our Black Hills vacation rentals. 

Area map of Deadwood South Dakota and the Surrounding Black Hills Area