Is there a better treat than ice cream on a hot day? We think not. We've created an ice cream trail in the western part of the state, so you can enjoy several locally-owned ice cream parlors over a road trip that can cover as many days as you have to spend. This trail takes you from Rapid City through several towns in the beautiful Black Hills National Forest.

Take our mouthwatering Ice Cream Trail, which starts in Spearfish and takes you along the Black Hills National Forest to the little town of Hot Springs.

Click here for the interactive map with directions.

1. Leones' Creamery, Spearfish

This place in Spearfish is well worth the drive! They make their own ice cream in an array of delicious and unique flavors. They also create delicious ice cream sandwiches and other frozen confections. 722 1/2 Main St - Old City Hall, Spearfish.

2. Armadillo's Ice Cream Shoppe, Rapid City

Bring your appetite and a little patience to Armadillo's. The line here is often long, but service is pretty fast, and it's well worth the wait. The portions here are huge - even when you order the smallest size. This place also has some unique offerings - this is the "Dirt Cup." 202 Main Street, Rapid City.

3. Silver Lining Creamery, Rapid City

This charming shop on Main Street Square makes its own unique flavors every day. Your only problem? Trying to choose just one (or two... or three). Don't worry - they'll give you some free samples. 512 Main Street, Rapid City.

4. Memorial Team Ice Cream, Keystone

Did you know that Thomas Jefferson created the first recipe for ice cream in the United States? Memorial Team Ice Cream, at Mt. Rushmore, sells Thomas Jefferson ice cream (vanilla), along with many other tasty flavors. You'll find this parlor at Presidential Trail in Keystone.

5. Purple Pie Place, Custer

Purple Pie Place is well-known for its incredible pie, but the ice cream here is also fabulous. Enjoy a slice of pie with your frozen treat, too. 19 Mount Rushmore Road, Custer.

6. Gus' Best Ice Cream, Hot Springs

Gus' Best serves up tasty hand-scooped ice cream in fresh, homemade waffle cones. You can also get a cold, refreshing shaved ice here. 345 N. River Street, Hot Springs.

What are you waiting for? Hop in the car and take this ice cream trail!