Discover the Untamed Beauty of Wildlife Loop Road
Experience the breathtaking Wildlife Loop Road in South Dakota, a scenic drive through Custer State Park showcasing stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Wildlife Loop Road in South Dakota offers an immersive experience into nature, where tourists can explore stunning landscapes and observe a diverse range of wildlife. This scenic drive is a must for any nature lover visiting the area.
A brief summary to Wildlife Loop Road
- Wildlife Loop Rd, East Custer, South Dakota, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars and a good camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
- Make sure to stop at designated pull-offs for the best views.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic stops along the route.
- Check for park conditions and wildlife activity updates before your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the center of Custer, SD. Head south on US-16A for about 2 miles. Take a left onto Wildlife Loop Road, which will lead you directly into Custer State Park. The entrance to Wildlife Loop Road is well-marked, and there is a small fee for entering the park, typically around $20 per vehicle for a daily pass. Make sure to have cash or a credit card ready for this fee.
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Public Transportation
If you are relying on public transportation, your best option is to take a shuttle or bus service from the nearby town of Custer to Custer State Park. Check local schedules, as services may vary seasonally. Once you arrive at Custer State Park, you will need to walk or arrange for a local taxi or rideshare to get to the Wildlife Loop Road entrance, which is about 3 miles from the main visitor center.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, biking is an option as well. If you are located in Custer, you can rent a bike from a local shop. The ride to Wildlife Loop Road is about 2 miles and will take you along scenic routes. Be cautious of traffic and wildlife while biking on the roads. Remember to wear a helmet and bring water with you.
Discover more about Wildlife Loop Road
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hazelrodt Picnic Area
6.5 km
Discover tranquility at Hazelrodt Picnic Area, your ultimate picnic destination in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Glen Erin School Historic Site
10.7 km
Experience the charm of the Glen Erin School Historic Site, a captivating glimpse into South Dakota's educational heritage surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Gordon Stockade Historical Landmark
12.2 km
Explore the historical significance and natural beauty of Gordon Stockade Historical Landmark in Custer, SD, a perfect blend of history and outdoor adventure.
Welcome to Custer State Park Sign
13.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history of Custer State Park in South Dakota's beautiful Black Hills.
Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center
14.0 km
Explore the Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills, featuring unique geological formations and rich wildlife.
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel
14.4 km
Experience comfort and nature at Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel, a serene retreat in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Wind Cave Canyon
15.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and geological marvels of Wind Cave Canyon in South Dakota, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Pageant Hill
15.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene surroundings at Pageant Hill, the perfect event venue in Custer, South Dakota.
Ken's Minerals & Trading Post
15.2 km
Explore Ken's Minerals & Trading Post in Custer SD for a unique journey through geology and natural beauty with stunning minerals and fossils.
Custer Bark Park
15.3 km
Discover the joy of outdoor play at Custer Bark Park, a serene haven for dogs and their owners in the heart of South Dakota.
Big Rock Park
15.3 km
Explore Big Rock Park in Custer, SD, where stunning natural beauty meets adventure. Perfect for hiking, picnics, and wildlife watching.
Custer Lighted Sign
15.4 km
Experience the charm of Custer, South Dakota, at the iconic Custer Lighted Sign, a historical landmark capturing the spirit of the town.
Dave's Rock Shop
15.5 km
Explore the captivating world of rocks and minerals at Dave's Rock Shop in Custer, South Dakota - a treasure trove for enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Miner's Cup
15.5 km
Discover the charm of Miner's Cup, Custer's favorite coffee shop for breakfast and artisanal brews in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Pizza Mill
15.6 km
Experience the taste of Custer at Pizza Mill, where delicious pizzas and hearty meals await in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wildlife Loop Road
0.0 km
Explore the stunning Wildlife Loop Road in South Dakota, a scenic drive through Custer State Park filled with diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Prairie Dog Town
0.9 km
Discover the charm of Prairie Dog Town in Custer, SD, where playful prairie dogs and stunning landscapes await every visitor.
Blue Bell Entrance Station (Custer State Park)
4.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park through the Blue Bell Entrance Station, a gateway to outdoor adventures.
Hayride & Chuckwagon Cookout at Blue Bell Lodge
5.2 km
Discover the enchanting Hayride & Chuckwagon Cookout at Blue Bell Lodge in South Dakota, where adventure meets authentic Western dining in the Black Hills.
Blue Bell Stables
5.2 km
Discover the beauty of Custer State Park through unforgettable horseback riding adventures at Blue Bell Stables, where nature meets equestrian bliss.
Sanctuary Trail
5.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Sanctuary Trail in Custer, SD, a must-visit destination for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Custer State Park
6.4 km
Explore Custer State Park, a South Dakota treasure, featuring stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures.
Bison Center
6.5 km
Explore the Bison Center in South Dakota - a captivating attraction showcasing the majestic bison and its cultural significance in the Great Plains.
Wildlife Station Visitor Center
6.6 km
Discover the wonders of Custer State Park at the Wildlife Station Visitor Center, your gateway to breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife in South Dakota.
Rankin Ridge Trail
7.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views and tranquility of Rankin Ridge Trail in Custer, South Dakota, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Custer State Park Mt Coolidge
7.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Custer State Park Mt Coolidge, a natural paradise in South Dakota, where adventure and serenity await.
Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower
7.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower in Custer, South Dakota. An essential stop for nature lovers.
Heddy Draw Overlook - s
8.0 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Heddy Draw Overlook in Custer, South Dakota, a must-visit scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Badger Hole Historical Site
8.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Badger Hole Historical Site, the home of poet Badger Clark in Custer State Park, South Dakota.
Lenker Rock
9.0 km
Discover the breathtaking Lenker Rock, a historical landmark in Custer, SD, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and rich geological history.
Essential places to dine
Dockside Grill
9.3 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in Custer's scenic beauty at Dockside Grill – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and nature.
State Game Lodge Restaurant Custer State Park
10.7 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine in the heart of Custer State Park at the State Game Lodge Restaurant—where nature meets culinary delight.
Subway
15.5 km
Discover deliciously fresh sandwiches at Subway in Custer—your perfect pit stop during South Dakota adventures.
Sage Creek Grille - Closed for the Season - Reopening Spring 2024
15.8 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, SD – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sage Creek Grille - Now Open!
15.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, South Dakota – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Hot Dog Man
15.8 km
Experience gourmet hot dogs at Hot Dog Man in Custer - perfect for tourists seeking delicious bites amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Maria's Mexican Restaurant
15.8 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors at Maria's Mexican Restaurant in Custer – where every meal is a festive celebration!
Pizza Hut
15.8 km
Enjoy delicious pizzas and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Custer - a family-friendly dining spot amidst South Dakota's scenic beauty.
Baker's Bakery & Cafe
15.8 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Baker's Bakery & Cafe in Custer – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Black Hills Sauce & Dough Co.
15.9 km
Discover Black Hills Sauce & Dough Co., where delicious pizza and gourmet sandwiches meet the charm of Custer, South Dakota.
Black Hills Sauce & Dough
15.9 km
Experience the best local flavors at Black Hills Sauce & Dough in Custer, SD – perfect after exploring Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park.
Custer Deli
15.9 km
Discover the flavors of South Dakota at Custer Deli – where fresh ingredients meet delightful deli classics.
Custer's Last Stop
15.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs, delicious pizza, and refreshing brews at Custer's Last Stop - your perfect pit stop in South Dakota.
Skogen Kitchen
15.9 km
Discover seasonal flavors and local ingredients at Skogen Kitchen in Custer, SD – where culinary creativity meets rustic charm.
Hjem A.M.
16.0 km
Discover Hjem A.M., Custer's favorite breakfast spot offering delicious dishes made from local ingredients in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blue Bell General Store
5.3 km
Explore the essence of South Dakota at Blue Bell General Store, where local charm meets adventure in Custer State Park.
Legion Lake Convenience Store
9.3 km
Discover local goods and snacks at Legion Lake Convenience Store, your gateway to exploring the beautiful Black Hills and Custer State Park.
Coolidge General Store
10.6 km
Explore Coolidge General Store in Custer, SD, for unique local goods, souvenirs, and a delightful shopping experience in the heart of the Black Hills.
Needles View Emporium
14.2 km
Explore unique clothing, antiques, and costume jewelry at Needles View Emporium in Custer, South Dakota, a treasure trove for every tourist.
Smokey The Bear wood carvings
15.3 km
Explore the unique Smokey The Bear wood carvings in Custer, South Dakota – a celebration of artistry and conservation in handcrafted wooden sculptures.
Black Hills Power Bikes Rentals & Boutique
15.5 km
Discover the beauty of South Dakota's Black Hills with top-notch bike rentals and expert advice from Black Hills Power Bikes Rentals & Boutique.
Dollar General
15.6 km
Explore an array of affordable items at Dollar General in Custer, SD - your one-stop shop for essentials, beauty supplies, and unique finds.
Lynns Dakotamart
15.6 km
Experience the convenience and local charm of Lynns Dakotamart, your essential grocery stop in Custer, South Dakota.
Custer Ace Hardware
15.7 km
Explore Custer Ace Hardware for all your home improvement needs in the heart of South Dakota, where quality and community meet.
South Dakota Outdoor Shop
15.7 km
Explore the great outdoors with top-quality gear from South Dakota Outdoor Shop, your local adventure hub in Custer.
Quilted Buffalo
15.7 km
Discover Quilted Buffalo in Custer, South Dakota - a vibrant quilt shop offering fabrics, yarns, and a community for creative crafters.
Deep Creek Gallery
15.8 km
Explore Deep Creek Gallery in Custer, SD for unique gifts, local art, and exquisite photography, perfect for creating lasting memories.
Fluffy Cow Outlet
15.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Fluffy Cow Outlet, a charming gift shop in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
The Hills Finest
15.8 km
Discover The Hills Finest, a charming wine bar in Custer, SD, where exquisite wines, delicious food, and live music come together for an unforgettable experience.
A Walk In the Woods Gallery & Gifts
15.8 km
Explore unique gifts, local art, and handcrafted treasures at A Walk In the Woods Gallery & Gifts in Custer, South Dakota.
