Imlay, South Dakota, might be a small town, but it’s a surprisingly good base for exploring some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States.
While it’s not as bustling as major cities, Imlay offers access to unforgettable experiences like cycling through Badlands National Park or soaring above it in a small plane. We love how these tours provide both active and scenic ways to see the region’s iconic formations.
Whether you’re into physical activity or prefer to view the landscape from above, there’s something here that will match your travel style.
One standout is the Badlands National Park: Private Bike/E-Bike Tour with Lunch. It combines exercise with education and local flavor. For those wanting a quick aerial overview, the Wall SD: Small Airplane Tour To See Badlands National Park offers a scenic flight that provides a stunning, bird’s-eye view of this unique landscape. Read on to discover which one suits your travel plans best.
1. Badlands National Park: Private Bike/E-Bike Tour with Lunch
At number 1 on our list, this private bike/e-bike tour offers a fantastic way to explore Badlands National Park intimately. The tour lasts about 7 hours and includes a guided ride through the park’s iconic formations, with the flexibility to ride at your own pace. You’ll start at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, where an expert guide will introduce you to the park’s geology, wildlife, and history.
The ride itself takes in some of the most scenic parts of the park, with plenty of opportunities for photography and quiet moments of awe.
What makes this tour stand out? It’s tailored to your pace and preferences, with support for your bikes along the way. After a few hours of cycling, you’ll enjoy a fresh picnic lunch at the visitor center, giving you time to relax and reflect on the stunning views.
The reviews are positive, emphasizing the personalized experience and the knowledgeable guide, who shares insights about the park’s formation over millions of years.
This tour suits active travelers who appreciate a hands-on approach and want to see the landscape up close. It’s an excellent value for those who want to combine physical activity with education and local flavors. The only downside might be the price—$775 per group—so it’s best for those who want a private, comprehensive experience.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want an active, personalized way to see Badlands in detail, with the added bonus of a scenic picnic lunch.
2. Wall SD: Small Airplane Tour To See Badlands National Park
For around $140 per person, this small plane tour offers a memorable bird’s-eye view of Badlands and its surrounding landscapes. This experience is perfect if you prefer to cover more ground in less time or want to see the park from a perspective that most visitors miss.
The flight typically lasts for a set period (check specific durations when booking), during which you’ll soar over the rugged formations, deep canyons, and striking cliffs that make this landscape famous.
The unique aspect of this tour is the ability to photograph the park from above, capturing sweeping vistas and dramatic shadows that change with the light. Since reviews highlight the stunning views and the pilot’s professionalism, this is a reliable choice for travelers craving a visual overview without the physical effort of biking.
It’s especially suitable for families, seniors, or anyone with limited mobility who still wants a dramatic experience.
One aspect to consider: this tour doesn’t include ground exploration, so if you want to walk or cycle in the park, it’s better combined with other activities. Still, for pure scenic enjoyment, this flight ranks highly for value—offering a memory of a lifetime at a reasonable price.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a quick, exhilarating overview of Badlands’ landscape from above, with excellent photo opportunities and minimal effort.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two top experiences, consider your interests and travel style. If you enjoy active exploration and want to learn about the park firsthand, the private bike/e-bike tour provides a personalized, in-depth experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer to maximize your sightseeing in a shorter time or have mobility concerns, the airplane tour delivers spectacular views with minimal physical effort.
Budget plays an important role as well. The bike tour is more expensive but offers a full day of activity and education. The airplane flight is more affordable and perfect for a quick, awe-inspiring introduction to the area. Booking early is recommended for both, especially in peak seasons, to secure availability.
In summary, Imlay provides access to two fantastic ways to experience the stunning Badlands. For those who love an active day of exploring and learning, the bike tour delivers a personal touch and a chance to connect with nature. If a quick, exhilarating flight over the landscape sounds better, the airplane tour is hard to beat for breathtaking views.
Both options promise memorable moments—so pick what suits your style and get ready for a spectacular adventure. And remember, booking in advance ensures you don’t miss out on these great experiences.