Hot Springs Mammoth Site and Fossil Adventure

This tour is really unique in that it offers guides who love their work, are paid a living wage, and receive regular training and tips as we all learn together. We share stories and findings, then share them between ourselves.
We set out on a journey, not a tour. While our tours are a full day, they don't seem like it with all we have to show. Adults and kids will have a great time, learn in the process and take home meaningful memories!

What to expect:

Duration: between 7 hours and 8 hours

Wildlife Loop Road

Custer, 57730, South Dakota

Wildlife Road with My XO Adventures
Explore the stunning Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park. This scenic drive winds through rolling grasslands and pine-covered hills, offering up-close encounters with bison, pronghorn, deer, wild burros, and more. Your private guide will share expert insights into the park’s ecosystem, history, and conservation efforts. Expect breathtaking views, incredible photo opportunities, and a journey filled with adventure, storytelling, and unforgettable wildlife moments.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Wind Cave National Park

26611 U.S. Highway 385, South Dakota

Nestled within the breathtaking Southern Black Hills lies a natural wonderland waiting to be discovered: Wind Cave National Park. Venture into the depths of this mesmerizing underground labyrinth, where ancient chambers and delicate formations whisper tales of geological marvels and cultural significance.
Wind Cave is not just a mere cavern; it's a sacred site steeped in the rich tapestry of Lakota mythology. According to their origin story, it's believed that the cave is the place where the Lakota people emerged into the world, making it a cornerstone of their spiritual heritage.

You'll feel a profound connection to the earth and its timeless mysteries as you traverse through the cool, dark corridors adorned with intricate calcite formations. The cave's unique "boxwork" formations, rare and delicate, are a testament to the intricate craftsmanship of nature, inviting awe and wonder with every step!

1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs

1800 U.S. 18 Bypass, , Hot Springs, 57747-9604, South Dakota

This is a prehistoric marvel and an essential destination for anyone fascinated by the ancient world. This unique paleontological site is home to the largest concentration of mammoth remains in the world, offering an extraordinary glimpse into the Ice Age.
Upon entering the Mammoth Site, visitors are transported back in time, walking over a preserved dig area that houses the fossils of over 60 mammoths, primarily North American Columbian and a few woolly mammoths. The site is enclosed within a massive building that serves both as a museum and a protective cover for the ongoing excavations.

The Mammoth Site goes beyond just mammoths. It also features a large collection of Ice Age fauna, including giant short-faced bears, camels, and other animals that once lived in this lush landscape. Interactive exhibits, educational programs, and a working paleontology lab make the Mammoth Site a dynamic place where visitors of all ages can engage with science in an immersive and exciting way.

2 hours

World Fossil Finder Museum

719 Jensen Hwy, Hot Springs, 57747-2469, South Dakota

The World Fossil Finder Museum, located in the heart of Hot Springs, South Dakota, offers an enthralling glimpse into the ancient past, where visitors can explore the fascinating world of paleontology and discover the remnants of creatures that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. This unique museum is a treasure trove for fossil enthusiasts and curious minds alike, providing an in-depth look at the history of life on our planet.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of fossils from around the world, including rare specimens of dinosaurs, marine reptiles, and mammoths. Each exhibit is meticulously curated to tell the story of the Earth’s geological history and the evolution of life. The displays are not only educational but also designed to engage visitors of all ages with interactive elements and detailed informational panels.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Hot Springs

Hot Springs, South Dakota

Hot Springs offers a tranquil retreat amidst rolling hills and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers. This picturesque town is named for its warm, mineral-rich waters, which have attracted visitors for centuries looking to soak in the legendary healing springs. The waters here flow from the southern Black Hills and are surrounded by scenic parks and resorts where you can relax and rejuvenate.
Beyond its famed thermal waters, Hot Springs is steeped in rich history and culture. The town is home to the Mammoth Site, an active paleontological dig site and museum that boasts the largest concentration of mammoth remains in the world. Here, visitors can step back in time and explore Ice Age fossils in an engaging and educational setting.

1 hour