Some roads simply get you where you’re going, but Needles Highway in Custer State Park makes the journey part of the adventure. Winding through South Dakota’s Black Hills, the route passes towering granite spires, slips through narrow rock tunnels, and curves past pine forests, mountain meadows, and rugged peaks. So, roll down the windows, breathe in the fresh air, and take your time. This drive is made for slowing down and making memories at scenic stops. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Needles Highway adventure.
About the Needles Highway in South Dakota
The Needles Highway (South Dakota Highway 87) is a 14-mile scenic drive (one-way) through Custer State Park, one of South Dakota’s Great Eight Destinations. Completed in 1922, the road was mapped on foot and horseback by former South Dakota Governor Peter Norbeck and is now part of the 70-mile Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway. Named for the granite “needles” lining the route, the highway’s narrow tunnels and hairpin turns make it one of the most memorable drives in the Black Hills.
The Needles Highway is open seasonally, closing to vehicles in winter and reopening in spring. Check Custer State Park for current road conditions and closures before setting out.
Needles Highway Route and Highlights
Begin: Junction of US Highway 16A and SD Highway 87 near Legion Lake
End: Sylvan Lake and the junction of SD Highways 87 and 89
You can drive Needles Highway in either direction. Traveling north puts Sylvan Lake at the end for a rewarding picnic, swim, paddle, or beach walk before returning south to your Mount Rushmore accommodations.
The highlights below appear in south-to-north driving order, finishing at Sylvan Lake:
Iron Creek Tunnel
The Iron Creek Tunnel measures just over 8 feet wide and 10 feet high, making the slow single-lane squeeze through granite part of the fun. Approach carefully and be prepared to yield to other traffic approaching the tunnel.
Wildlife and Mountain Meadows
Beyond the tunnel, the road weaves between ponderosa pine, spruce, birch, and aspen. Watch the meadows and hillsides for deer, wild turkeys, and mountain goats. Bison are more common along the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road. Remember to drive slowly and keep a safe distance from wildlife.
Cathedral Spires
As the road climbs, granite spires shape the skyline near the Cathedral Spires pullout. Stop to take in the view, or stretch your legs on the moderate 1.7-mile out-and-back Cathedral Spires Trail, which leads into the heart of the formations. The rocky trail is steep in places and requires some scrambling, but the up-close views of the spires and surrounding Black Hills prairie landscape make it well worth it.
Needles Eye and Needles Eye Tunnel
Farther north, look for the Needles Eye, a granite formation with an opening resembling a sewing needle. Nearby, the famous Needles Eye Tunnel squeezes through solid rock. At 8 feet wide and 9 feet, 9 inches high, a trip through it becomes a story worth retelling. Make sure your vehicle fits before entering the tunnel.
Sylvan Lake
The drive ends at Sylvan Lake, one of the most photoworthy spots near Mount Rushmore, where dramatic granite formations frame the water. Follow the 1-mile shore trail, rent a kayak or paddleboard in season, or enjoy a picnic at the beach. On a hot day, cool off with a refreshing wild swim before hopping back in the car for the return trip.
Scenic Drive Loop Through Custer State Park to Mount Rushmore
Combine three of the Black Hills’ best scenic drives into a memorable loop from Under Canvas Mount Rushmore, with a stop at Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The roughly 70-mile loop takes about 3–4 hours without stops, but plan for a full day of scenic stops, wildlife spotting, and photos.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
From Under Canvas Mount Rushmore, drive 10 minutes to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where you can walk the Presidential Trail for closer views of the 60-foot faces and explore exhibits about the monument’s construction.
Iron Mountain Road (US Highway 16A)
Follow Iron Mountain Road south from Mount Rushmore into Custer State Park. The 17-mile route features wooden pigtail bridges, switchbacks, and three rock tunnels. Allow at least 45–60 minutes without stops.
Wildlife Loop Road
Continue along the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road to look for bison, prairie dogs, pronghorn, and the park’s famous “begging burros.” Go early or late, when wildlife is most active, and allow 1.5–2 hours, including time for possible bison jams.
Needles Highway (South Dakota Highway 87)
Finish your Custer State Park drive by following Needles Highway north through Iron Creek Tunnel, Cathedral Spires, and Needles Eye Tunnel. The 14-mile route ends at Sylvan Lake, a spectacular place to walk, paddle, picnic, or swim before returning to Under Canvas Mount Rushmore.
Cap off an adventure-filled day by watching the Mount Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony or enjoying views from the comfort of camp with s’mores around the fire.
Take a Guided Scenic Tour of the Black Hills
Want to admire the scenery without driving? A four-hour Private Guided Sightseeing Tour of the Black Hills lets everyone enjoy the experience together. Professional guides with decades of experience bring the Black Hills to life through stories of its history, wildlife, and natural wonders. Choose your route:
- Mount Rushmore and Iron Mountain Road: Walk beneath the faces of presidents, then follow switchbacks, tunnels, and pigtail bridges for memorable glimpses of the monument.
- Custer State Park Wildlife Loop: Travel through rolling grasslands in search of bison, pronghorn, deer, elk, and prairie dogs.
- Needles Highway and Sylvan Lake: Wind through pine- and spruce-filled forests, pass through Iron Creek and Needles Eye tunnels, and stop at Sylvan Lake, the crown jewel of Custer State Park.
Tours depart from Under Canvas Mount Rushmore and include a guide, transportation, park admission fees, snacks, and water. It’s easy to add this adventure to your itinerary after booking your stay.
Tips for Driving the Needles Highway
- Take your time: Speed limits are 25 mph or lower. Watch for wildlife, cyclists, motorcycles, and oncoming traffic around tunnels and blind curves.
- Go early: Summer mornings offer lighter traffic, easier parking, cooler temperatures, and beautiful light on the granite spires.
- Check your vehicle size: Large vehicles may not fit through tunnels.
- Park entry: Purchase a Custer State Park entrance pass online or at the park.
- Fuel up: Custer State Park has no gas stations. Fill up in Keystone, Hill City, or Custer, and bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Plan for limited service: Download directions or carry a park map.
Where to Stay in the Black Hills of South Dakota
Under Canvas Mount Rushmore is tucked among ponderosa pines and juniper on an original gold-mining settlement less than four miles from Mount Rushmore National Memorial. With views of the monument and surrounding hills, it’s the perfect basecamp for exploring the Black Hills. After a day of winding roads and granite peaks, return to safari-inspired accommodations with king-size beds, ensuite bathrooms, and private decks. Share stories over al fresco dining, gather around the campfire for nightly s’mores, and look up at a sky filled with stars each night.