How Long Is the Drive from Badlands to Rapid City?
The drive from Badlands to Rapid City takes approximately 1h 3min, covering 58 miles via I-90. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $6 on gas.
Travel time can vary — during peak hours, weekends, or holidays, the journey may take 2–3+ hours. For the fastest trip, leave early morning (before 7 AM) or travel on weekday evenings.
Traffic Estimate
🟢 Light traffic
54 min
🔵 Typical
1h 3min
🔴 Heavy traffic
1h 31m
Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.
Trip Details
Distance58 miles (93 km)
Drive Time1h 3min
RouteI-90
Best TimeWeekday mid-day
Fuel Costs
Gas (30 mpg)~1.9 gallons
Est. Cost$6
Best Time to Drive from Badlands to Rapid City
For this shorter drive, the best time to go is weekday mid-day. Rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM) can add significant time on this route. Weekends are generally smoother unless it's a holiday.
🟢 Best:Weekday mid-day
🔴 Avoid:Rush hour (4-7 PM)
Route Tips: I-90
Plan rest stops every 2-3 hours on longer drives. Check traffic conditions before departure and keep your tank above quarter-full.
This trip can typically be done on a single tank of gas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Badlands to Rapid City?
The drive from Badlands to Rapid City takes approximately 1h 3min covering 58 miles via I-90. Actual time may vary based on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
How much does gas cost for Badlands to Rapid City?
At 30 MPG and $3.50/gallon, expect to spend approximately $6 on gas for this 58-mile trip. You'll need about 1.9 gallons of fuel.
What is the best time to drive from Badlands to Rapid City?
Weekday mid-day to avoid heavy traffic. Weekday mornings before 7 AM or evenings after 7 PM typically have less congestion.
Are there tolls on the Badlands to Rapid City route?
There may be minor tolls (around $1) on parts of this route. Some sections have toll-free alternatives.
