South Dakota Scenic Drives: Custer State Park

If you are planning a trip to South Dakota, spend a few days in Custer State Park. Known for its wildlife, scenic drives, lakes and historic sites, there is so much to do and see. Listed below are the top 3 South Dakota scenic drives thru Custer State Park:

*I recommend the guidebook Moon Mount Rushmore & Black Hills: With the Badlands . It’s an excellent travel guide for the South Dakota area and outlines a ‘must see’ section with highlights for each area.

Needles Highway

Needles Highway (SD Hwy 87) is in the Black Hills in Custer State Park, South Dakota. Known for its narrow windy roads and tunnels, granite spires and world class views, this drive is not to be missed. There are 3 narrow tunnels along this drive. The tunnels were formed back in the 1920’s when workers blasted thru the surrounding granite. The most famous is the Needles Eye Tunnel – measuring 8′ 4″W x 12″H. Buses, RV’s or trailers will want to avoid this route!
Needles Highway brings you to Sylvan Lake which is a stunning spot encompassed by beautiful rock formations and pine trees. It’s a highlight of Custer State Park that offers swimming, hiking, paddle boarding and much more.

Iron Mountain Road

Iron Mountain Road (16A) is a 17 mile stretch between Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore. The road is full of switchbacks, wooden bridges (called pigtail bridges), 3 tunnels and 4 presidents in the distance. The tunnels were designed to frame Mount Rushmore in the distance which is an incredible site to see. This drive offers:
•17 miles
•314 curves
•14 hairpin turns
•3 pigtail bridges
•3 tunnels
Take your time! With numerous curves, this road was designed specifically to limit speed. Enjoy the spectacular views and take in the beauty of the Black Hills.

Wildlife Loop Road

Wildlife Loop Road is an 18-mile loop that’s home to bison, pronghorn, elk, antelope and other wildlife. The landscape changes from open prairies to hills of ponderosa pines. The drive takes about an hour to an hour and 30 minutes depending on “wildlife jams”. We were stopped by a herd of bison making their way down the road which made for a very memorable moment. The best time to see the animals are early in the morning or before sunset.

All in all, the scenic drives of South Dakota will be a memorable part of your trip. Slow down and enjoy the ride!

If you are a planning a trip, visit the Custer State Park website for possible road closures, construction and more information about the park.