South Dakota
Outdoor Shop
Custer, SD
South Dakota
Outdoor Shop
Custer, SD
About South Dakota Outdoor Shop
South Dakota Outdoor Shop is your year-round headquarters for adventure — a laid-back, community-minded gear shop offering everything you need to explore the Black Hills with confidence. What began in 2019 as a small bike and climbing store has grown into a full-service outdoor and lifestyle shop stocked with high-quality gear, apparel, footwear, and accessories for hiking, climbing, camping, and everyday life. Whether you’re gearing up for your first trail outing or planning a summit push, our friendly team is here to help you choose smart, reliable gear without any pressure.
We’re proud to offer unique local favorites like custom Mickelson Trail and Black Hills bike jerseys, handcrafted soaps, region-specific apparel, and a rotating selection of local beer and kombucha — perfect for relaxing in our cozy hangout area after a day outside. Customers love our inviting atmosphere, helpful advice, and commitment to staying stocked all year long. As active members of the Black Hills community for nearly seven years, we believe in giving back through local collaborations, events, and partnerships. At South Dakota Outdoor Shop, we’re here to outfit every adventure, support every journey, and help you feel at home in the outdoors.
What You Offer (The Basics)
What products or services do you offer?
Outdoor/Adventure Gear, Shoes & Apparel – Guided Rock Climbing – Local Beer & Kombucha
What does your business specialize in?
Outdoor Gear and Apparel
What problem do you help customers solve?
Becoming outfitted and prepared for outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, climbing, camping, etc.
What would you tell someone who has never heard of you before?
We are your local, one-stop shop for all of your outdoor and lifestyle gear and apparel needs.
What Makes Your Business Unique
What makes your business stand out from others in the area?
We are open all year and stay stocked with the many items needed to adventure!
What do customers usually say they love most about your business?
The friendly, inviting atmosphere and well stocked outdoor gear & apparel.
What values or goals guide your work?
Kindness, helpful advice – not being pushy, but guiding customers towards smart decisions and gear that will be helpful and needed for their adventures.
Do you offer anything special, local, handcrafted, unique, or custom?
Yes. Custom Mickelson Trail/Black Hills bike jerseys, locally made soap, Black Hills specific apparel, hats, & souvenirs, local beer & kombucha.
Your Story
How did your business get started?
2019 opened as a bike shop and climbing shop. Has grown into a full service gear and apparel store. No longer selling or renting bicycles.
How long have you been in the Black Hills area?
Going on 7 years.
What do you love most about being part of the local community?
Doing partnered events with local organizations and charities. Finding fun and entertaining ways to give back to our community.
Customer Experience
What can customers expect when they visit you for the first time?
To be greeted with a friendly smile, assisted when needed, and not pushed into buying something that isn’t right for them.
What’s the atmosphere or vibe of your business?
Laid back and casual! We have a great hangout area for people to work on computers and connect with other likeminded (or not) individuals.
What do people always come back for?
Beer! And apparel and gear for their next adventure.
What are you most proud to offer customers?
Gear and apparel from trusted brands that will support them in all of their life endeavors. Whether it be lifestyle and work oriented, or climbing the tallest peaks. We’ve got you covered!
Brandon Emery
Owner
Brandon was born and raised in Rapid City, and grew up with strong family roots in the Custer area. He is passionate about all things outdoors, but most of all, in giving back to the community and helping others to share in the same activities he is passionate about.
Outdoor Adventures
Trail Talk
What’s your favorite trail in the Black Hills and why?
Black Elk Peak via trail 9North! It is steep and a tough hike, but the views are unparalleled.
Most memorable experience on a Black Hills trail?
Seeing a pine martin!
What’s always in your backpack (your must-carry items)?
Bandana, first aid kit, extra layers, extra socks, plenty of water and snacks, of course!
Who is your favorite hiking/adventure partner?
Our shop dog, Khayyam!
What are your top tips for people exploring the Hills?
Be prepared, know your route, practice Leave No Trace Principles, watch the weather closely, and have fun! If a storm’s rolling in, bail!
Is there a trail in the Black Hills you think everyone should experience at least once?
Cathedral Spires to Black Elk Peak.
What Black Hills season do you love exploring in most — and why?
The fall. It is quiet, the trails are empty, and the weather is usually beautiful!
Favorite trail snack or post-hike treat?
Nut mix, and a cold beer after the hike!
What’s the coolest place you’ve explored outside the Black Hills?
Thailand, specifically the Phra Nang peninsula for rock climbing.
If you could pick one dream destination for an outdoor trip, where would you go?
Probably to Valdez, Alaska on a Helicopter ski trip!
Favorite national park or public land you’ve visited?
Wind River Range in Wyoming.
Most surprising wildlife encounter (here or elsewhere)?
Bumping into a mountain lion in the Cathedral Spires at dusk by myself!
What’s one piece of gear you can’t live without?
A good raincoat! Absolute must for the Black Hills year around.
What trail do you recommend for beginners?
Iron Creek.
What trail do you recommend for those wanting a challenge?
A loop that starts at Sylvan Lake, goes down Lost Cabin Trail, then to Willow Creek, up and over Black Elk Peak via trail 9North, then to the Cathedral Spires, finishing with a summit of Little Devils Tower and back to Sylvan Lake. Roughly 17 miles of great views, and fun strenuous hiking!
One piece of advice you’d give someone new to hiking or biking the Black Hills:
Check the weather, and be very cautious of thunderstorms, especially if you plan to visit any local high points. The storms here get very intense, and they roll in incredibly fast. Start your hikes early for your best chance at avoiding afternoon thunderstorms. And even if the weather says there is no chance of rain, trust your “eye-dar” and watch the sky.
What outdoor activity do you enjoy most besides hiking? (Biking, fishing, climbing, trail running, etc.)
Skiing or mountain biking, for sure!