Your Guide
Former National Park Ranger
There’s the Black Hills most visitors see — and then there’s the Black Hills you experience when guided by someone who has spent years learning, protecting, and interpreting this landscape.
Signature Black Hills Tours was created for travelers who want a more personal, unhurried way to experience the Black Hills. For many of my guests, the most meaningful moments come from thoughtful planning, flexible pacing, and the confidence of being guided by someone who truly knows the land.
I’m David, and I personally guide every tour.
I spent over a decade with the National Park Service, serving as an interpretive ranger at Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Custer State Park. I also served as a ranger at Glacier National Park, Denali National Park and Preserve, and Death Valley National Park — helping visitors connect more deeply with the stories, landscapes, and sense of place that define each park.
I earned a bachelor’s degree in Geography Education from South Dakota State University as well as a masters degree in Geography researching a “secret place” in the Black Hills named Poet’s Table. I also earned a bachelor’s degree from Black Hills State University in Outdoor Education. I am a Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation.
Each tour follows a carefully crafted route shaped by years of on-the-ground experience. Within that framework, the day remains flexible. We can linger at a scenic overlook, adjust timing to avoid peak crowds, and take advantage of changing light, wildlife activity, and your personal interests.
No scripts. No rushing. Just a carefully crafted experience shaped by experience, timing, and what matters most to you.
The Black Hills are my home. I would be honored to share them with you.
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David Leiferman
Founder & Lead Guide
Credentials & Affiliations
Certified Interpretive Guide — National Association for Interpretation (NAI)
Former Interpretive Park Ranger, National Park Service — Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Glacier National Park, Denali National Park & Preserve, Death Valley National Park
Former Naturalist — Custer State Park, South Dakota
M.S., Geography — South Dakota State University
B.S., Geography Education — South Dakota State University
B.S., Outdoor Education — Black Hills State University