Mount Moriah Cemetery Deadwood
Resting place of Old West legends like Wild Bill Hickok & Calamity Jane, offering historic graves and stunning Deadwood views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Mount Moriah Cemetery Deadwood
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Resting place of Old West legends like Wild Bill Hickok & Calamity Jane, offering historic graves and stunning Deadwood views.
"A worthy stop for Western and history fans, with interesting graves and a great overview of the town."
🚗 Drive to the Top
Save your energy! Driving to the top parking area is recommended over climbing the steps.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is on a steep hill with uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wild Bill Hickok's Grave
Upper section of the cemetery
Pay respects to the legendary lawman whose final resting place is a must-see for Old West enthusiasts.
Calamity Jane's Final Resting Place
Near Wild Bill Hickok's grave
Visit the tomb of the iconic frontierswoman, a key figure in Deadwood's colorful history.
Panoramic Town Overlook
Various points on the hill
Enjoy breathtaking bird's-eye views of Deadwood and the surrounding Black Hills from this historic vantage point.
Children's Section
Mid-section of the cemetery
A poignant reminder of the harsh realities of life in the Old West, with many young lives tragically cut short.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Slopes
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive to the Top
Save your energy! Driving to the top parking area is recommended over climbing the steps.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is on a steep hill with uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are a must!
🗺️ Grab a Map
The provided map helps you find notable graves and navigate the grounds easily.
💰 Small Admission Fee
A small fee grants access and helps maintain this historic site. Worth every penny!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive to the Top
Save your energy! Driving to the top parking area is recommended over climbing the steps.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is on a steep hill with uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are a must!
🗺️ Grab a Map
The provided map helps you find notable graves and navigate the grounds easily.
💰 Small Admission Fee
A small fee grants access and helps maintain this historic site. Worth every penny!
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning panoramic views of Deadwood from the cemetery's overlook.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Mount Moriah Cemetery to be a beautiful and historically significant site, particularly for its connection to Old West legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. The panoramic views of Deadwood are a major draw, and the small admission fee is considered well worth it for the upkeep of the grounds. Some find the steep terrain challenging, and parking can be difficult during busy periods.
"We thought the Mount Moriah Cemetery is one of the most beautiful we have seen. The cemetery is loaded with notable people from the Deadwood area. Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane and Seth Bullock are just a few. Near the top there is a great overview of the town."
Louis and Elaine
"Mount Moriah Cemetary is a worthy stop while visiting Deadwood. Western and history fans will find a number of intetesting graves, including Wild Bill and Calamity Jane. However, there are other interesting sites, including a children's section and a Chinese burner.
There is a small $2 fee to get in, but it is worth the small fee as the cemetary is maintained in very good condition. You also get a map with suggestions for a self guided walking tour.
Parking can be difficult to find, although you can usually find a spot in the small osrking area or on one of the residential streets. We don't suggest trying to bring you RV or trailer as the cemetary is at the top of a hill in a residential area."
Dawn J
"We started down in Deadwood went up the many steps to get to this cemetery. I will be honest with you next time I will drive to the top. Once we got to the cemetery, we still had to continue going upward to see all the graves. From Wild Bill to Calamity Jane worth seeing. One of the most disturbing things is noticing how many young children died either birth or a few days afterwards or even a month or two. Please don’t be one of those people to put the rocks on top of the grave because it damages the headstones."
JEFFERY COMER
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Moriah Cemetery is located at the top of a hill in Deadwood, South Dakota. You can drive directly to the top and park, or for a more strenuous experience, you can climb the numerous steps from the town below.
Yes, there is a small parking area at the cemetery. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Street parking on nearby residential roads is also an option, but RVs and trailers are not recommended due to the steep, narrow roads.
Public transportation options directly to the cemetery are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or take a taxi/rideshare if you are not driving your own vehicle.
Driving to the top parking area is highly recommended. The cemetery itself has paved paths, but there are inclines. Consider using a mobility aid if needed, and focus on the main areas accessible from the parking lot.
No, it is not recommended to bring RVs or trailers to Mount Moriah Cemetery due to the steep and narrow residential roads leading up to it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small admission fee, typically around $2-$3 per person, which helps fund the cemetery's upkeep and preservation.
The cemetery is generally open daily during daylight hours. It's always a good idea to check the official Deadwood tourism website or local listings for the most current hours, especially during off-season.
No, advance booking is typically not required. You can usually pay the admission fee upon arrival.
While there is a small fee to help with maintenance, the cost is very reasonable. It's a small price to pay for access to such a significant historical site.
The admission fee contributes to the ongoing maintenance, preservation, and upkeep of the historic Mount Moriah Cemetery, ensuring its stories can be shared for generations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most famous graves are those of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. You'll also find the resting places of Seth Bullock and other notable figures from Deadwood's past.
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour exploring the cemetery, depending on their interest in history and how much they want to walk.
While official guided tours may not always be available, the cemetery provides maps with suggested self-guided walking routes, highlighting key figures and points of interest.
The cemetery is situated on a steep hill, so expect inclines and uneven ground. Paved paths are present, but comfortable footwear is essential.
It is the final resting place for many prominent figures of the American Old West, including Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, making it a crucial historical landmark of Deadwood.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged for personal use. It's a great place to capture historical gravestones and scenic views.
The overlook offering panoramic views of Deadwood is a prime photo spot. The historic headstones themselves, especially those of famous figures, also make for compelling shots.
While personal photography is fine, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
Morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the textures of the headstones. Midday sun can be harsh but still offers good visibility.
Yes, you can photograph the entire cemetery, but remember to be respectful of the resting places and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be sure to point out the children's section to discuss the realities of life and loss in historical times, fostering empathy and understanding. The panoramic views of Deadwood also offer a fun visual element. Remember to emphasize respectful behavior in a cemetery setting.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on transportation, consider walking up from Deadwood if you're up for a bit of a workout, though driving to the top is recommended for ease. Pack your own water and snacks, as amenities within the cemetery are limited. This allows you to soak in the history and views without significant expense.
🏛️ History Buffs & Old West Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the various sections, including the poignant children's area and the unique Chinese burner. The provided map is invaluable for identifying significant individuals and understanding the cemetery's layout. Consider researching these figures beforehand to enhance your appreciation of their final resting places.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legends of Deadwood: Buried Here
Equally significant is the grave of Calamity Jane, the spirited frontierswoman, scout, and show-woman. Her resting place is often adorned with flowers and mementos left by admirers. The proximity of their graves adds to the allure for history enthusiasts.
Beyond these two legends, the cemetery also honors Seth Bullock, a prominent sheriff and businessman who played a key role in Deadwood's development. Exploring these graves offers a tangible link to the individuals who shaped the lore of the Wild West.
A Glimpse into Old West Life and Loss
The cemetery also features a Chinese burner, a unique historical artifact reflecting the diverse population of early Deadwood and the cultural practices of its Chinese residents. The variety of gravestone styles, from simple markers to elaborate monuments, tells a story of social standing and personal beliefs.
Walking through Mount Moriah is more than just a historical tour; it's an emotional journey. It provides a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to reflect on the lives, hardships, and enduring legacies of those who settled the American West.
The Scenic Beauty and Practicalities of Mount Moriah
However, visitors should be prepared for the cemetery's topography. It's situated on a steep incline, meaning walking can be challenging. While driving to the top parking area is the most convenient option, those who choose to walk from Deadwood will encounter numerous steps. Comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the uneven terrain and inclines.
Parking can also be a consideration, especially during peak tourist seasons. The small parking lot at the top can fill quickly. Visitors are advised to arrive early or be prepared to find parking on nearby residential streets. For those with larger vehicles like RVs, it's best to leave them in town and use a smaller vehicle or arrange alternative transport.
Social
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