Terry Peak Ski Area

Terry Peak Ski Area is located 2 miles west of Lead in the northern Black Hills of South Dakota, with a summit elevation of 7,064 feet — among the highest ski area peaks in the Great Plains region. The mountain offers 30 trails across 400 acres of skiable terrain, served by seven lifts including two high-speed quad chairlifts. The vertical drop of 1,100 feet from summit to base is among the largest in the region. Trail difficulty is distributed across ability levels: roughly 35% beginner terrain, 45% intermediate, and 20% advanced and expert runs. The longest run, Harvey's Haul Road, descends over a mile through ponderosa pine forest and appeals to intermediate skiers looking for sustained cruising. Snowmaking infrastructure covers approximately 90% of the mountain terrain, allowing consistent operations from late November through mid-March even in lower-snowfall years. Terry Peak's continental location in the Black Hills produces dry, cold powder conditions that tend to hold longer than resorts in wetter mountain climates along the Front Range. Ski and snowboard lessons are offered through the ski school for beginners through advanced riders. A terrain park with jumps and rails serves freestyle skiers and snowboarders. Summit House at the top of the high-speed quad serves food and hot beverages with panoramic views over the Black Hills. Full equipment rental packages for skis, snowboards, and helmets are available at the base lodge. The resort is approximately 45 minutes from Rapid City via US-85 and I-90.