Black Hawk, South Dakota, is a vibrant community located in the scenic Black Hills region of the state. Located just outside of Rapid City, Black Hawk offers residents and visitors alike the perfect blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and abundance of recreational opportunities, Black Hawk serves as a gateway to the wonders of the Black Hills.
Geography
Black Hawk is located in western South Dakota, approximately 10 miles northwest of Rapid City. The town is surrounded by the rugged terrain of the Black Hills, with towering pine forests, pristine lakes, and winding rivers defining the landscape. Major landmarks in the area include nearby Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, and the scenic Spearfish Canyon.
Population and Affiliation
As of the latest census data, Black Hawk has a population of approximately 7,000 residents. The town’s population swells during the peak tourist season as visitors flock to the Black Hills to explore its natural wonders and historic attractions. Black Hawk is affiliated with Pennington County and is part of the Rapid City metropolitan area, which serves as the economic and cultural hub of western South Dakota.
Climate and Weather Overview
Black Hawk experiences a semi-arid climate, with four distinct seasons characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and relatively low precipitation throughout the year. Understanding the climate and weather patterns is essential for residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities and plan accordingly for seasonal changes.
Average Climate Data
The following table presents average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Black Hawk, South Dakota:
| Month | Average Temperature (Fahrenheit) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 34 | 0.39 | 18 |
| February | 38 | 0.53 | 18 |
| March | 46 | 0.90 | 20 |
| April | 56 | 1.89 | 22 |
| May | 65 | 3.28 | 23 |
| June | 75 | 2.56 | 25 |
| July | 83 | 2.24 | 27 |
| August | 82 | 1.63 | 26 |
| September | 73 | 1.64 | 24 |
| October | 60 | 1.38 | 22 |
| November | 45 | 0.81 | 20 |
| December | 35 | 0.45 | 18 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Black Hawk is characterized by cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. The average temperature is around 34°F, with 0.39 inches of precipitation. Outdoor activities during this month may include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing on nearby lakes. Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, attending cultural events, and cozying up by the fireplace are also popular choices.
February
February sees similar weather patterns to January, with cold temperatures and occasional snow showers. The average temperature rises slightly to 38°F, with 0.53 inches of precipitation. Outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy activities such as snowboarding, sledding, and winter hiking in the Black Hills. Indoor activities such as attending art classes, cooking workshops, and movie nights offer alternative ways to stay entertained during the winter months.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Black Hawk, with milder temperatures and the gradual melting of snow. The average temperature increases to 46°F, with 0.90 inches of precipitation. Outdoor activities such as hiking in state parks, birdwatching along nature trails, and visiting historic sites become more popular as the weather begins to warm up. March also offers opportunities for attending seasonal festivals, participating in community clean-up events, and exploring the town’s scenic beauty.
April
April brings warmer temperatures and blooming flora to Black Hawk, signaling the arrival of spring in full swing. The average temperature climbs to 56°F, with 1.89 inches of precipitation. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities such as biking along scenic trails, fishing in nearby streams, and picnicking in local parks. April also offers opportunities for attending outdoor concerts, visiting botanical gardens, and taking guided nature walks to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
May
May in Black Hawk is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures and recreational activities. The average temperature reaches 65°F, with 3.28 inches of precipitation. Residents and visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking in the Black Hills, kayaking on nearby rivers, and attending farmers’ markets to purchase fresh produce and artisanal goods. May also offers opportunities for participating in community gardening projects and outdoor yoga classes.
June
June brings warm temperatures and longer days to Black Hawk, creating perfect conditions for outdoor recreation and leisurely pursuits. The average temperature rises to 75°F, with 2.56 inches of precipitation. Outdoor activities such as camping in the Black Hills, fishing in local lakes, and wildlife viewing in Custer State Park are popular choices during this month. June also offers opportunities for attending outdoor concerts, visiting historic landmarks, and enjoying leisurely picnics in scenic areas.
July
July is characterized by hot temperatures and occasional thunderstorms in Black Hawk, making it essential to stay hydrated and seek shade during outdoor activities. The average temperature peaks at 83°F, with 2.24 inches of precipitation. Despite the heat, residents and visitors can still enjoy activities such as hiking to scenic overlooks, swimming in mountain lakes, and exploring underground caves. July also offers opportunities for attending Independence Day celebrations, visiting air-conditioned museums, and enjoying leisurely boat rides on nearby reservoirs.
August
August continues the trend of hot temperatures and occasional rainfall in Black Hawk, with outdoor activities focused on staying cool and hydrated. The average temperature remains at 82°F, with 1.63 inches of precipitation. Residents and visitors can enjoy activities such as tubing down scenic rivers, camping in shaded areas, and exploring historic mining towns. August also offers opportunities for indoor activities such as visiting art galleries, attending live performances, and enjoying leisurely meals at local restaurants.
September
September marks the transition to early fall in Black Hawk, with milder temperatures and changing foliage creating a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities. The average temperature drops to 73°F, with 1.64 inches of precipitation. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking to waterfalls, mountain biking along forested trails, and horseback riding in the Black Hills. September also offers opportunities for attending fall festivals, apple picking at local orchards, and exploring historic ghost towns.
October
October brings cooler temperatures and vibrant colors to Black Hawk, making it an ideal time for leaf peeping and fall-themed activities. The average temperature decreases to 60°F, with 1.38 inches of precipitation. Residents and visitors can enjoy activities such as scenic drives along the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, visiting pumpkin patches, and attending haunted hayrides. October also offers opportunities for exploring historic sites, indulging in seasonal treats such as apple cider and pumpkin spice lattes, and capturing the beauty of autumn foliage through photography.
November
November in Black Hawk is characterized by crisp temperatures and the transition to late fall, with occasional frost and light snowfall possible towards the end of the month. The average temperature drops to 45°F, with 0.81 inches of precipitation. Outdoor activities such as hiking in state parks, birdwatching along nature trails, and fishing in mountain streams are popular choices during this month. November also offers opportunities for attending holiday craft fairs, preparing for winter sports season, and enjoying scenic drives to admire the last of the fall foliage.
December
December marks the onset of winter in Black Hawk, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall creating a festive holiday atmosphere. The average temperature drops to 35°F, with 0.45 inches of precipitation. Outdoor activities such as ice skating, snowshoeing, and sledding become popular choices for residents and visitors alike. December also offers opportunities for attending holiday concerts, shopping for unique gifts at local markets, and enjoying festive light displays throughout the town.