In addition to sightseeing and other adventures in the Black Hills, you can enjoy peace and tranquility right from your cabin’s front porch. Enjoy beautiful mountain and meadow views, and even observe the region’s wildlife from your cabin. Frequent guests include deer, songbirds, turkeys, hawks, and chipmunks. Occasionally, bald eagles, elk, coyotes, owls, marmots, and fox also visit the property. Aspen Acres is located at an elevation of nearly 5,000 feet, providing for cool evenings and star-studded skies.
About Aspen Acres
The Aspen Acres property is rich in history, located on the west central edge of Eagle Mountain Ranch. The original Ranch was established by early settlers and includes Eagle Mountain, elevation 5,267, located to the east of Aspen Acres and recognizable by its rocky outcropping peak. Bald Eagles have historically nested in the area and are often seen soaring the skies. During Prohibition, Aspen Acres’ corner of the Ranch was known as Whiskey Gulch. Remnants of old bootlegger roads and the spring that cooled the whiskey still can be found on Forest Service property adjacent to Aspen Acres.
The cabin is situated in the heart of the Hills, perfect for visiting local attractions. Guests can take short day trips to Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, Sheridan Lake, Pactola Reservoir, Mickelson Trail, 1880 Train, Bear Country, Reptile Gardens, caves, museums, micro breweries, wineries, and many other area must-see attractions. It is located on the east edge of our home property.
The Aspen Acres Lodging is open on limited basis each year. The property is for adults only. No smoking or pets are permitted.
Your Hosts
Yak Ridge owners Todd and Cathy acquired the property April 10, 2024. Todd is a retired Navy veteran having served 22 years in uniformed service. Following the years in service, he worked an additional 14 years in civil service.
He and his Canadian wife Cathy enjoyed living in and out of country experiencing both the regional and international cultures each duty station had to offer. Regardless of where they lived, their best memories revolved around outdoor scenic
beauty.
Whether it be hiking in the hills of Germany or visiting the glorious wonders of Yellowstone National Park, the allure of nature’s wonders has always been a constant. Todd and Cathy have one son who is an IT specialist. He aspires to hike the Pacific Crest Trail and enjoys camping, hiking and being outdoors. It has always been their dream to live in an area of profound peace and beauty. As John Muir said, “The Mountains Are Calling” and they are so happy they took the call!
Arrival and Departure through
Rapid City Regional Airport
Travel times to / from Aspen Acres: 25-30 min. (driving)
Guests arriving at and departing from Rapid City Regional Airport will appreciate the convenience of the short thirty-minute commute. Rental vehicles are available in the airport terminal and shuttles regularly travel between the airport and Rapid City. If you have any questions about arriving at or departing from Aspen Acres, please contact us and we will be happy to answer your questions.
Healthcare –
Monument Health Rapid City Hospital
Travel time to/from Aspen Acres: 20 min (driving)
Guests requiring emergency medical services while visiting the Black Hills have access to Monument Health in Rapid City. Acute care services are available in Hill City and other communities throughout the Black Hills. These clinics are operated by Monument Health and other providers.
