The image showcases a rugged, eroded landscape with distinctive rock formations under a cloudy sky.
The image showcases a rugged landscape with sharp pinnacles and eroded rock formations, bathed in the warm glow of what appears to be sunset lighting.
The image shows a rugged landscape with dramatic rock formations and spires under a blue sky, suggesting a desert or Badlands region.

Ghost town of Scenic near Rapid City, SD

Scenic Scenic, SD 57780
The following tours visit Ghost town of Scenic near Rapid City, SD:
Badlands National Park Private Tour Photo
4/29/2024 - 3/31/2025
Embark on a private motorcoach tour with Vacations Made Easy to take in Badlands National Park's magnificent magnificence.
space
Nestled in the southwestern region of South Dakota, just a few miles from Rapid City, lies the eerily enchanting Ghost town of Scenic. It is a place where time seems to have etched its unique stories into aged structures, rusting relics, and the vast sweeping landscapes. Stepping into Scenic is akin to taking a journey into a forgotten era, making it a must-visit for historians, adventure seekers, and anyone with a thirst for the offbeat and unique.

Founded in the early 1900s, Scenic bloomed with life and vitality before slowly succumbing to the tooth of time. Covering approximately 12 acres, the town was once a critical stop for travelers during the homesteading era. As the years rolled by, the town's heartbeat dipped, and its inhabitants gradually moved on, leaving behind remnants of a past existence. Each structure, artifact, and piece of land in Scenic carries within it an indelible imprint of the history it has witnessed.

Unarguably, the most compelling draw of Scenic is its ethereal, nearly-abandoned layout dotted with historical buildings and landmarks. Notably, there's the Longhorn Saloon, a quintessential symbol of the old western era. This classic watering hole is deeply etched with stories of cowboys, travelers, and locals, making it an exciting landmark for visitors. The original jailhouse, too, continues to stand, showcasing the town's penal system from a different age. This range of crumbling edifices and rustic structures gives visitors a genuine feel for the era Scenic once thrived in.

The seemingly abandoned trains that line the fringes of the town are equally intriguing, presenting themselves as historical treasures to both train enthusiasts and common travelers alike. The sight of these rail beauties, with their peeling paint and rusting bodies, silently narrates a tale of the once buzzing life of this forgotten town. Moreover, the natural environment surrounding the town gives it an even more mystical and enticing aura. Shimmering under the vast South Dakota Sky, the town is nestled in rolling hills and offers panoramic views of the awe-inspiring Badlands National Park, just a short drive away.

In closing, Scenic isn't your typical tourist destination. It's a place where historical truths intertwine perfectly with haunting intrigue, creating an atmosphere that will captivate any visitor. Its dilapidated structures and rusting remnants of the past serve as a stark, silent tribute to the thriving community that once was. For those who treasure history, cherish tales of the old west, or seek adventure off the beaten path, the Ghost town of Scenic holds an unmatched allure. Its uncanny quietness and time-stood-still atmosphere are its unique selling points, making it an unforgettable stop in any South Dakota itinerary.

Try searching by keyword or choose a specific date.
By Date:
 
 
 
Looking For Something?