Discover the Scenic Splendor of Needles Highway
Experience the breathtaking views and unique rock formations along Needles Highway, a scenic drive in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Needles Highway is a breathtaking scenic drive in South Dakota, renowned for its stunning views, unique rock formations, and picturesque tunnels. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike!
A brief summary to Needles Highway
- 23034 Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, Hill City, SD, 57745, US
- +1888-875-0001
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Take your time exploring the viewpoints and hiking trails for a richer experience.
- Be prepared for narrow and winding roads; drive carefully and watch for wildlife.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.
- Check for road conditions, especially in winter, as some parts may be closed.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving from Rapid City, take I-90 W towards Sturgis. After approximately 25 miles, take exit 57 for US-385 S towards Hill City. Continue on US-385 S for about 20 miles until you reach Hill City. From Hill City, follow the signs for SD-87 S (also known as Needles Highway). The scenic drive begins shortly after you enter the Black Hills National Forest. Ensure you have a valid parking pass if you plan on stopping at any designated areas along the highway.
-
Car
If you are coming from Custer, take SD-87 N towards Hill City. Continue straight for about 15 miles until you reach the entrance of Needles Highway. This route offers beautiful views along the way, so consider taking your time and enjoying the scenery.
-
Public Transportation
Currently, public transportation options in the Black Hills are limited. However, there are shuttle services available from Rapid City to Hill City. Check local providers like Black Hills Shuttle for schedules and fares. Once in Hill City, you can hire a taxi or rideshare service to take you to Needles Highway.
-
Bicycle
For the adventurous, biking is an option! If you're in Hill City, you can rent a bicycle from local shops and ride along SD-87. Be sure to wear a helmet and follow road safety rules, as the highway can be busy with vehicle traffic.
Discover more about Needles Highway
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch Resort
4.5 km
Experience the beauty of the Black Hills at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, your gateway to adventure and relaxation near iconic landmarks.
Hood Tunnel
4.7 km
Explore the Hood Tunnel, a stunning architectural marvel nestled in South Dakota's Black Hills, offering breathtaking views and a touch of history.
Black Elk Lookout Marker
5.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Black Elk Lookout Marker in South Dakota's Black Hills, a must-visit for every traveler.
Mount Rushmore Inspiration
6.9 km
Explore the monumental Mount Rushmore Inspiration, a breathtaking testament to American history and artistry nestled in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Crazy Horse
7.6 km
Explore the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota, a breathtaking tribute to Native American heritage and culture, set against the stunning Black Hills.
Horse Thief Lake
8.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Horse Thief Lake, a stunning natural oasis in South Dakota's Black Hills, perfect for swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Breezy Point Picnic Area
9.1 km
Discover the serene Breezy Point Picnic Area in South Dakota's Black Hills—a perfect spot for picnics, hikes, and breathtaking views.
Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead
9.6 km
Discover the thrill of rock climbing and the beauty of nature at Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Meeker Ranch
9.8 km
Explore the rich heritage and breathtaking beauty of Meeker Ranch in the Black Hills, South Dakota - a true gem for history and nature enthusiasts.
Mount Rushmore Profile View
10.4 km
Experience the breathtaking profile view of Mount Rushmore, where history and nature unite in a stunning South Dakota landscape.
Hall of Records
10.5 km
Discover the Hall of Records in Keystone, SD: A captivating historical landmark celebrating America's rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Mt Rushmore
10.5 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Mt. Rushmore, where history, artistry, and nature converge in South Dakota's majestic Black Hills.
Gold Mountain Mine Interpretive Site
10.7 km
Explore the Gold Mountain Mine Interpretive Site, a historical landmark in South Dakota, where the gold rush history meets stunning natural beauty.
Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center
10.8 km
Visit the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center for an enriching experience that unveils the history of Mount Rushmore and its dedicated sculptor.
Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
10.9 km
Explore a delightful array of souvenirs at Mount Rushmore Gift Shop, celebrating America's iconic landmark and local craftsmanship.
Unmissable attractions to see
Creekside Mountain Resort
1.6 km
Discover the beauty of the Black Hills at Creekside Mountain Resort, your ideal campground for relaxation and adventure in South Dakota.
Palmer Creek Trailhead
2.9 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and serene landscapes at Palmer Creek Trailhead in the Black Hills of South Dakota, a hiker's paradise.
South Dakota State Railroad Museum, Ltd.
4.9 km
Discover the legacy of railroads at the South Dakota State Railroad Museum, a historical gem in Hill City showcasing captivating exhibits and artifacts.
Hill City
5.0 km
Explore Hill City, a picturesque gem in South Dakota’s Black Hills offering breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture.
Sunday Gulch Trail
5.0 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Sunday Gulch Trail, a premier hiking destination in Custer State Park, South Dakota, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
1880 Train - Hill City Depot
5.0 km
Embark on a nostalgic journey through the Black Hills aboard the 1880 Train, a captivating experience blending history and breathtaking scenery.
Black Hills Institute Of Geological Research
5.0 km
Explore geological wonders and fascinating history at the Black Hills Institute in Hill City, South Dakota—a must-visit museum for every traveler.
Museum @ Black Hills Institute
5.0 km
Explore the Black Hills Institute Museum: A Fascinating Journey Through Natural History and Paleontology in Hill City, South Dakota.
Sylvan Lake Dam and Overlook
5.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Sylvan Lake Dam and Overlook, a must-visit natural wonder in South Dakota's Black Hills, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Sylvan Lake
5.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and outdoor adventures at Sylvan Lake in South Dakota's stunning Custer State Park.
Black Elk Peak Trail
5.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Black Elk Peak Trail, the highest point in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills region.
Black Elk Peak
5.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and remarkable hiking at Black Elk Peak, South Dakota's highest point in the stunning Black Hills.
Mavericks cliff
5.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Mavericks Cliff in Crazy Horse, SD, featuring stunning views, accessible hiking trails, and a perfect connection with nature.
Black Elk Peak Trailhead
5.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Black Elk Peak Trailhead, South Dakota's highest point, and embark on unforgettable hiking adventures surrounded by nature.
Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead
5.3 km
Discover the enchanting trails of Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead, a pristine hiking area in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for all nature enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
Subway
4.7 km
Discover fresh and customizable meals at Subway in Hill City – the perfect pit stop during your Black Hills adventure!
1885 Steakhouse & Saloon
4.8 km
Discover Hill City's premier destination for mouthwatering steaks at 1885 Steakhouse & Saloon - where quality meets comfort.
Bumpin Buffalo Bar and Grill
4.9 km
Discover the warmth of family dining at Bumpin Buffalo Bar and Grill in Hill City - where great food meets stunning Black Hills views.
Tin City Saloon
4.9 km
Discover Tin City Saloon in Hill City: A cozy bar & grill offering delicious food and drinks amidst South Dakota's breathtaking landscapes.
Hill City Café
4.9 km
Discover authentic American cuisine at Hill City Café – your cozy dining destination in the heart of South Dakota's scenic Black Hills.
LemonGrass Bar & Kitchen
5.0 km
Experience the flavors of Hill City at LemonGrass Bar & Kitchen - where culinary creativity meets local charm.
Alpine Inn
5.0 km
Experience culinary delights at Alpine Inn in Hill City, where local flavors meet warm hospitality amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Downtown Deli & Bakery
5.0 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of Hill City at Downtown Deli & Bakery—where delicious food meets friendly service in South Dakota.
Mangiamo Wood Fired Pizza
5.2 km
Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Mangiamo Wood Fired Pizza in Hill City – where every slice tells a story!
R Victor Alexander Enterprises
5.3 km
Experience the best of Hill City's culinary scene at R Victor Alexander Enterprises with locally sourced dishes and inviting atmosphere.
Chute Rooster
5.5 km
Discover the flavors of South Dakota at Chute Rooster – where rustic charm meets culinary excellence in Hill City.
Laughing Water Restaurant
7.6 km
Discover authentic South Dakota cuisine at Laughing Water Restaurant, where local flavors meet stunning views near Crazy Horse Memorial.
The Prairie Dog Food Truck
8.5 km
Experience the best of South Dakota's comfort food at The Prairie Dog Food Truck—delicious hamburgers, hoagies & hot dogs in a scenic setting.
Dairy Twist
8.8 km
Experience sweet indulgence at Dairy Twist – Hill City's favorite spot for fast food and creamy ice cream treats amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Black Hills Coffee Cabin
8.9 km
Experience the warmth and flavors at Black Hills Coffee Cabin – your cozy retreat in Hill City, South Dakota.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Just Dandy
4.8 km
Discover unique local gifts and handmade treasures at Just Dandy, Hill City's charming gift shop filled with art and craftsmanship.
The Mercantile by Sturgis Motorcycles Inc
4.8 km
Discover stylish motorcycle apparel and accessories at The Mercantile by Sturgis Motorcycles Inc in Hill City, SD - a haven for bike lovers.
Heart of the Hills Antiques Firearms
4.8 km
Explore the rich history of America through unique antiques and firearms at Heart of the Hills Antiques Firearms in Hill City, South Dakota.
Things That Rock
4.9 km
Discover unique gems, beads, and handcrafted jewelry at Things That Rock in Hill City, South Dakota – a must-visit gift shop for every traveler.
The Handbag Store
4.9 km
Explore unique handbags and accessories at The Handbag Store in Hill City, a boutique that captures the essence of style and charm in South Dakota.
Hilltop Souvenirs
4.9 km
Discover unique local crafts and treasures at Hilltop Souvenirs in Hill City, South Dakota - the perfect destination for memorable gifts.
Wild West Gifts
4.9 km
Explore Hill City's Wild West Gifts for unique souvenirs and local crafts that embody the spirit of South Dakota's rich heritage.
Beef jerky Experience
4.9 km
Discover the ultimate jerky experience in Hill City, South Dakota, with a wide variety of flavors and local snacks.
Mountain Souvenirs
4.9 km
Explore the charm of Hill City with unique gifts and souvenirs at Mountain Souvenirs, capturing the essence of the Black Hills.
Stage Stop Leather
4.9 km
Explore Stage Stop Leather in Hill City, SD for handcrafted leather gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of the Black Hills.
Jewel of the West
4.9 km
Explore the Jewel of the West, Hill City's premier destination for unique gifts, local crafts, and unforgettable shopping experiences in South Dakota.
TurtleTown
4.9 km
Discover TurtleTown in Hill City, South Dakota – a delightful candy store filled with sweets, chocolates, and gourmet treats for every palate.
The Farmer's Daughter
5.0 km
Explore the vibrant world of quilting and local art at The Farmer's Daughter, a premier gift shop in Hill City, South Dakota.
Alpaca Store
5.0 km
Explore the Alpaca Store in Hill City, SD for unique, sustainable products made from luxurious alpaca fibers, perfect for gifts and souvenirs.
Everything Prehistoric
5.0 km
Explore Everything Prehistoric in Hill City, SD – A unique gift shop and museum brimming with geological wonders and educational treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Silver Dollar Saloon
2.7 km
Discover the authentic Western experience at Silver Dollar Saloon in Hill City, SD, featuring local brews, hearty bites, and live entertainment.
HippieRockStar Boutique Wine & Beer Bar
5.1 km
Explore the delightful HippieRockStar Boutique Wine & Beer Bar in Hill City, South Dakota, for an unforgettable wine and beer experience.
Needles
6.6 km
Explore the stunning Needles of South Dakota, a breathtaking mountain peak known for its unique rock formations and rich wildlife, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Sick-N-Twisted Brewery
8.0 km
Discover the art of brewing at Sick-N-Twisted Brewery, where craft beer meets delicious cuisine in a cozy Hill City atmosphere.
Three Forks Bar & Grill
9.2 km
Experience the culinary delight of Three Forks Bar & Grill in Hill City, SD – where great food meets a vibrant bar atmosphere.
Cabin 13 Coffee
12.7 km
Experience the warmth and flavor of Custer at Cabin 13 Coffee, your go-to spot for artisanal brews and a cozy atmosphere.
Old Pine Social
13.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Pine Social, Custer's top amusement center, offering endless fun and relaxation for all ages.
The Hills Finest
13.6 km
Discover The Hills Finest in Custer, SD - a unique wine bar blending local wines, art, and live music for an unforgettable experience.
