Best Things to do in Custer State Park

Custer State Park is South Dakota’s first and largest state park. Known for its scenic drives, granite spires and abundant wildlife, it’s not to be missed! Here’s my picks of the best things to do in Custer State Park:

Wildlife Loop Road

An 18-mile loop that’s home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, burros and more. It’s a beautiful drive as the landscape changes from open prairies to ponderosa pines. The drive takes about an hour, unless you are stopped by “wildlife jams”, expect it to take a bit longer. The best time for wildlife viewing is early morning or before sunset.

south_dakota_scenic_drives_bison — Bison

Needles Highway

This 14-mile scenic drive thru Custer State Park is known for its granite spires, windy roads and tunnels and spectacular views. The highlights of the drive are Needles Eye Tunnel and Sylvan Lake. Formed back in the 1920’s when workers blasted thru the granite, Needles Eye Tunnel measures 8’ 4” w x 12’ h. Only one vehicle can pass thru at a time. For a more enjoyable drive, I recommend leaving early in the morning to avoid traffic jams at the tunnel. Buses, trailers and RV’s should avoid this route since they will not fit thru the tunnel! The drive takes about an hour.

south_dakota_scenic_drives_custer_state_park — Needles Highway, South Dakota

south_dakota_scenic_drives_needles_highway — Needles Highway, South Dakota

Sylvan Lake

Sylvan Lake is a highlight of Custer State Park. Considered the crown jewel, it’s a gorgeous lake surrounded by rock formations. Start your day early as it gets busy and parking fills up quickly. Enjoy loads of activities like hiking, fishing & swimming. Paddle board rentals are available on a first come, first serve basis. We arrived at 9:00am and immediately rented boards. For an easy hike, try the Sylvan Lake Trail, a 1.6-mile loop around the lake with beautiful views.

Horseback Riding

Blue Bell Stables, located in Custer state park, offers a variety of rides for all ages. An hour ride follows the French Creek which flows through the park. It’s a beautiful trail ride that crosses the creek a few times. I recommend making reservations a couple months in advance to get your preferred day/time.

Legion Lake

Spend the day at Legion Lake at the beach, swimming, boating or fishing. This popular area also offers campgrounds and cabins. Surrounded by pine trees and rock formations, it’s a scenic spot.

Iron Mountain Road

A 17-mile scenic drive between Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore. Full of curves, tunnels, pigtail bridges and 4 presidents, this road was designed to limit speed. Take your time and enjoy the spectacular views of the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore in the distance.

Black Elk Peak

Black Elk Peak is South Dakota’s highest point, reaching 7242 feet high. There are a number of ways to get to the top but the shortest and most popular is hiking Trail No. 9, which begins at Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park. About 7 miles roundtrip, this hike takes anywhere from 2-3 hours. The prize is gorgeous views of South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, Nebraska and North Dakota.

To learn more about Custer State Park, be sure to visit their website.

For more details about planning a trip to South Dakota, reference my 9-day itinerary.