I did research online before I went this year, 2011. I didn't find any direct answers, so I had to use multiple posts and websites.
When at Sturgis, they have Black Hills maps at the different businesses. Here is the website for the map:
http://www.blackhillsbadlands.com/ho...nyourtrip/maps
I would also go to New Castle, WY via 85, then towards Custer City on 16. It was a nice ride.
I heard going north on 79 from Bear Butte State Park and west on 212 was a good ride.
From Rapid City, I would go east on 44 to get to the Badlands. Stop at Wall afterwards, it's a nice little town.
The map online doesn't highlight Vanocker to Nemo or 385, but they are part of the Northern Hills.
Always fill up on gas. I didn't have any problems, but some people do.
If you see a bunch of bikes pulled over, then something cool is probably going on, so you might want to check it out.

 

Thanks for the link. It was our first trip this year as well. We knew we were going to pretty much wing it. Picked up that Map and had a great time.

 

We were there for 5 days and put on a couple hundred miles each day but barely scratched the surface for all there is to see out there. The maps were very handy and helpful. Have to make a return trip next year and spend some time in the outer areas. 5 days there just doesn't seem like enough. We spent two days on the road each way and were gone a total of 9 days. Next year it's going to have to be a two week event minimum.

 

yeah--that's a must have map while you're at the rally--unless you've been there several times!!!!

 

Here is another good link. I got the book b4 going out this year, gives good descriptions of rides as well as suggestions for stops ie. gas
http://www.blackhillsmotorcyclerides.com/

 

+1. Had the pleasure of meeting the author last year while riding the Hills. Gave us an autographed copy of the book.