Embrace the Wild: Discover Wildlife Loop Road
Experience the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife along Wildlife Loop Road, a scenic drive in South Dakota's Custer State Park, perfect for nature lovers.
Wildlife Loop Road in Custer, South Dakota, is a breathtaking scenic drive that immerses you in the stunning beauty of the Black Hills and its diverse wildlife. Spanning over 18 miles, this picturesque route invites you to experience nature up close, with opportunities to spot bison, elk, deer, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The journey along this road is not just a drive; it's an unforgettable adventure that offers panoramic views and a true taste of the wild heart of America.
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 chances of spotting wildlife.
- Bring binoculars for an up-close view of animals without disturbing them.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic rest areas along the road.
- Check local wildlife activity reports for the best times to visit different areas.
Getting There
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Car
Starting from Crazy Horse Memorial, head south on US-16 toward Custer. Continue on US-16 for approximately 8 miles. Look for the sign for Wildlife Loop Road on your right. Turn onto Wildlife Loop Road. The scenic drive offers beautiful views of wildlife and the surrounding landscape.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you will need to take a local bus or shuttle service from Crazy Horse Memorial to Custer, SD. Once in Custer, you can either rent a car or use local taxi services to reach Wildlife Loop Road. The distance from Custer to Wildlife Loop Road is about 6 miles, and you can follow US-16 to reach the destination.
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Bicycle
For those who are adventurous, you can bike from Crazy Horse Memorial to Wildlife Loop Road. Start by heading south on the road leading out of the memorial, then follow US-16. The ride is approximately 8 miles and offers scenic views along the way. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow safety guidelines.
Discover more about Wildlife Loop Road
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hazelrodt Picnic Area
6.5 km
Discover the tranquility of Hazelrodt Picnic Area in Custer, SD, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Glen Erin School Historic Site
10.7 km
Explore the Glen Erin School Historic Site in Custer, South Dakota, a charming glimpse into the educational past surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Gordon Stockade Historical Landmark
12.2 km
Uncover the rich history and natural beauty of Gordon Stockade, a must-visit historical landmark and state park in Custer, South Dakota.
Welcome to Custer State Park Sign
13.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Custer State Park, a must-visit destination in South Dakota's Black Hills region.
Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center
14.0 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and unique geological features at Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center in South Dakota.
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel
14.4 km
Experience the Ultimate Comfort at Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast in Custer, SD – Your Gateway to the Scenic Black Hills and Outdoor Adventures.
Wind Cave Canyon
15.1 km
Explore the stunning ravines and natural beauty of Wind Cave Canyon in South Dakota, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Pageant Hill
15.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pageant Hill in Custer, South Dakota, a perfect venue for events and a scenic retreat for nature lovers.
Ken's Minerals & Trading Post
15.2 km
Explore nature's hidden gems at Ken's Minerals & Trading Post in Custer, South Dakota, where rock enthusiasts find extraordinary specimens and unique treasures.
Custer Bark Park
15.3 km
Explore the pet-friendly Custer Bark Park in South Dakota, where dogs can run free and socialize in a welcoming natural landscape.
Big Rock Park
15.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Big Rock Park in Custer, South Dakota, where nature, adventure, and tranquility await every visitor.
Custer Lighted Sign
15.4 km
Discover the nostalgic charm of the Custer Lighted Sign, a historical landmark that beautifully captures the essence of Custer, South Dakota.
Dave's Rock Shop
15.5 km
Explore the enchanting world of geology at Dave's Rock Shop in Custer, South Dakota, home to a stunning collection of minerals and fossils.
Miner's Cup
15.5 km
Discover the heart of Custer at Miner's Cup, where exceptional coffee and hearty breakfasts await in a cozy atmosphere.
Pizza Mill
15.6 km
Discover the best pizza in Custer, South Dakota, at Pizza Mill, where every bite is a taste of local flavor and comfort.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wildlife Loop Rd
0.0 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, South Dakota, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Prairie Dog Town
0.9 km
Explore the lively ecosystem of Prairie Dog Town in Custer, SD, and enjoy a unique wildlife experience amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Blue Bell Entrance Station (Custer State Park)
4.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife at Custer State Park's Blue Bell Entrance Station, a must-visit destination in South Dakota.
Hayride & Chuckwagon Cookout at Blue Bell Lodge
5.2 km
Experience the charm of the Old West at Blue Bell Lodge with a hayride and chuckwagon cookout in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Blue Bell Stables
5.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Custer State Park on horseback at Blue Bell Stables, where adventure and nature come together.
Sanctuary Trail
5.8 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Sanctuary Trail, a serene hiking paradise nestled in the stunning landscapes of Custer, South Dakota.
Custer State Park
6.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park in South Dakota, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Bison Center
6.5 km
Discover the Bison Center in Fairburn, SD, where immersive exhibits meet the breathtaking beauty of America's iconic bison in their natural habitat.
Wildlife Station Visitor Center
6.6 km
Discover the beauty and wildlife of Custer State Park at the Wildlife Station Visitor Center, your gateway to nature's wonders in South Dakota.
Rankin Ridge Trail
7.2 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes of Rankin Ridge Trail, a must-visit hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota.
Custer State Park Mt Coolidge
7.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Custer State Park Mt Coolidge, a natural paradise in the heart of South Dakota.
Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower
7.9 km
Discover the majestic views and historical charm of Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower in Custer, South Dakota.
Heddy Draw Overlook - s
8.0 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife at Heddy Draw Overlook in Custer, South Dakota, a scenic gem in the Black Hills.
Badger Hole Historical Site
8.8 km
Explore the enchanting Badger Hole Historical Site, a tribute to poet Badger Clark amid the stunning landscapes of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Lenker Rock
9.0 km
Explore Lenker Rock, a captivating historical landmark in beautiful Custer, South Dakota, where nature and heritage intertwine.
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.
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.
Yesway
16.0 km
Discover convenience at Yesway in Custer: your essential stop for groceries, fuel, fast food, and local brews while exploring South Dakota's Black Hills.
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.
