Experience Nature's Majesty on the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road
Discover the breathtaking Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road, a scenic drive perfect for wildlife watching and exploring South Dakota's stunning landscapes.
Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road offers an extraordinary scenic drive where visitors can immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes and observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. This iconic loop is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a unique South Dakota adventure.
A brief summary to Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road
- Wildlife Loop Rd, Crazy Horse, South Dakota, 57730, US
- +1800-992-9818
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see wildlife.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
- Be cautious and respect wildlife; keep a safe distance from animals.
- Check for seasonal road conditions if visiting during winter months.
- Consider stopping at the visitor center for maps and information on wildlife sightings.
Getting There
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Walking
Begin your journey at the center of Custer, near the intersection of Main Street and 5th Street. Head south on 5th Street, which will turn into Custer County Highway 89. Continue walking along this road for approximately 3 miles (about an hour's walk). You will see signs for Custer State Park along the way. Once you reach the park entrance, you can purchase a pass at the entrance station.
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Bicycle
Start at Custer's Main Street and head south on 5th Street, which becomes Custer County Highway 89. This route is approximately 3 miles long and is relatively flat, making it suitable for cycling. As you approach Custer State Park, watch for the entrance signs. Upon entering the park, you will need to pay an entrance fee, which can be done at the entrance station.
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Rideshare
Open your rideshare app (like Uber or Lyft) and set the destination to 'Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road.' The drivers in Custer are familiar with local attractions and can take you directly to the park entrance. The ride should take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to confirm with the driver that they know the route to the Wildlife Loop Road within the park.
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Public Transport
Check local bus services for routes that may connect Custer to Custer State Park. However, please note that public transport options may be limited. If available, board the bus at the Custer Transit Center. Inform the driver of your destination as Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road to confirm they will stop at the entrance. Upon arrival, you will need to pay the entry fee at the station.
Discover more about Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Iron Mtn Rd Visitor Center Keystone, SD
11.5 km
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Hazelrodt Picnic Area
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Glen Erin School Historic Site
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Iron Mountain Picnic Area
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Norbeck Overlook
15.2 km
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Scovel Johnson Tunnel
15.3 km
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CC Gideon Tunnel
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Rush Mountain Adventure Park
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Rushmore Cave
15.8 km
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Turtle Rock
16.0 km
Explore Turtle Rock, a stunning park in Custer, South Dakota, known for its unique rock formations and breathtaking views amidst serene natural surroundings.
Doane Robinson Tunnel (Tunnel view of Mount Rushmore)
16.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views of Mount Rushmore from the historic Doane Robinson Tunnel, a hidden gem in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Under Canvas Mount Rushmore
16.3 km
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The Pig Tails
16.4 km
Experience the enchanting Pig Tails Bridge in Keystone, SD, a unique architectural marvel surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Mt Rushmore Information
17.7 km
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Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
17.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Custer State Park Visitor Center
3.3 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Custer State Park Visitor Center, your gateway to South Dakota's stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
3.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and majestic wildlife of the Black Hills with Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours, an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Custer, SD.
Custer State Park
3.8 km
Explore the natural wonders of Custer State Park, a vast wilderness filled with stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Custer State Park Resort
4.0 km
Experience the beauty of Custer State Park Resort, an outdoor paradise with breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife in South Dakota.
Lovers Leap Trailhead
4.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lovers Leap Trailhead in Custer, South Dakota, a premier hiking area offering stunning trails and views.
Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center
4.3 km
Explore the beauty of South Dakota's wildlife and natural wonders at the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center, a must-visit for nature lovers and families.
Custer State Park - Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
4.3 km
Discover the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park - Norbeck Wildlife Preserve in South Dakota.
Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
4.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, a premier natural refuge in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Welcome to Custer State Park Sign
4.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Custer State Park, where stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife create a perfect outdoor adventure in South Dakota.
Wildlife Station Visitor Center
7.3 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.
Badger Hole Historical Site
8.7 km
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Legion Lake
9.1 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Legion Lake in East Custer, SD - a perfect destination for swimming, fishing, and enjoying nature's serenity.
Lenker Rock
9.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Lenker Rock, a historical landmark in Custer, SD, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and rich geological history.
Wildlife Loop Rd
9.3 km
Explore the stunning Wildlife Loop Road in East Custer, SD, where breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife await your discovery.
Wildlife Loop Road
9.3 km
Explore the stunning Wildlife Loop Road in South Dakota, a scenic drive through Custer State Park filled with diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Essential places to dine
State Game Lodge Restaurant Custer State Park
4.0 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine in the heart of Custer State Park at the State Game Lodge Restaurant—where nature meets culinary delight.
Dockside Grill
9.2 km
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Lazy R Bar & Grill
17.6 km
Experience hearty comfort food in the heart of South Dakota at Lazy R Bar & Grill - where every meal feels like home.
DAKOTA KITCHEN
17.8 km
Experience authentic South Dakota flavors at Dakota Kitchen near Mount Rushmore – where delicious meals meet stunning scenery.
Carvers' Café
17.8 km
Experience delightful dining with local flavors at Carvers' Café near Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Halleys West
18.1 km
Discover Halley's West in Keystone, SD - a family-friendly grill serving delicious local cuisine at affordable prices.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
18.1 km
Experience delicious fast food and irresistible ice cream at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Keystone, South Dakota - perfect for family outings.
Red's Chicken House & BBQ
18.1 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue delights at Red's Chicken House & BBQ in Keystone, South Dakota – a must-visit culinary gem.
Grapes & Grinds
18.1 km
Experience the best of Keystone at Grapes & Grinds - your go-to coffee shop with unique gifts and delicious treats.
Peggy's Place
18.3 km
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Sirloin Steak Tips
18.5 km
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mt Rushmore/Keystone, an IHG Hotel
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Experience comfort and convenience at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mt Rushmore/Keystone - your ideal base for exploring South Dakota's natural wonders.
Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks
18.5 km
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Boss' Pizza & Chicken Keystone
18.6 km
Discover delicious pizza and chicken dishes at Boss' Pizza & Chicken in Keystone - a culinary delight amidst South Dakota's scenic beauty.
Quality Inn Keystone near Mount Rushmore
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Coolidge General Store
4.5 km
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Legion Lake Convenience Store
9.2 km
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Blue Bell General Store
10.5 km
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Farmhouse Vintage & Designs
17.4 km
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SoDak CLOTHING OUTLET
18.1 km
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Mt Rushmore T-Shirts & Co
18.1 km
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SD Gifts and Knives
18.1 km
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J&L Knives
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Rattlesnake Jake's
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Genuine Black Hills Gold-Knife and Survival Supplies
18.1 km
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Whispering PinesT-Shirts
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South Dakota gifts and souvenirs
18.1 km
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Usa Shop
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Dahl's Chainsaw Art
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Needles View Emporium
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
79 Lounge & Casino
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Needles
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Needles Eye Tunnel
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Old Pine Social
19.7 km
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Gold Pan Saloon Custer
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Calamity Jane Coffee Shop and Grill
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