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
12.2 km
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Glen Erin School Historic Site
13.6 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
14.7 km
Uncover the rich history and natural beauty of Gordon Stockade, a must-visit historical landmark and state park in Custer, South Dakota.
Iron Mountain Picnic Area
15.0 km
Explore the serene Iron Mountain Picnic Area in Keystone, SD, a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor fun, and peaceful escape for every nature lover.
Norbeck Overlook
15.2 km
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Scovel Johnson Tunnel
15.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Scovel Johnson Tunnel, a historical landmark offering stunning views of South Dakota's Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.
CC Gideon Tunnel
15.8 km
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Rush Mountain Adventure Park
15.8 km
Explore the thrill of Rush Mountain Adventure Park in South Dakota, where adventure meets family fun amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Rushmore Cave
15.8 km
Discover the breathtaking underground beauty of Rushmore Cave, a must-visit attraction in South Dakota's Black Hills, perfect for adventure seekers and families alike.
Turtle Rock
16.0 km
Discover the beauty of Turtle Rock in Custer, SD – a stunning natural landmark perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Doane Robinson Tunnel (Tunnel view of Mount Rushmore)
16.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views of Mount Rushmore from the Doane Robinson Tunnel, a historical landmark in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Under Canvas Mount Rushmore
16.3 km
Discover the magic of Under Canvas Mount Rushmore, where luxury meets nature in the heart of South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
The Pig Tails
16.4 km
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Mt Rushmore Information
17.7 km
Explore the iconic Mount Rushmore, where history, artistry, and breathtaking views come together in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Unmissable attractions to see
Custer State Park Visitor Center
3.3 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty and rich wildlife at Custer State Park Visitor Center - your gateway to adventure in South Dakota.
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
3.8 km
Discover the untamed beauty of South Dakota with Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours, an exhilarating journey into the wild.
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 enchanting beauty of Custer State Park Resort, where nature meets adventure in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Lovers Leap Trailhead
4.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife at Lovers Leap Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota.
Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center
4.3 km
Discover the wonders of nature and education at the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center in Custer State Park, South Dakota.
Custer State Park - Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
4.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park - Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, a captivating destination for all nature lovers.
Welcome to Custer State Park Sign
4.5 km
Explore breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Custer State Park, a premier destination in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Wildlife Station Visitor Center
7.3 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.
Badger Hole Historical Site
8.7 km
Explore the enchanting Badger Hole Historical Site, a tribute to poet Badger Clark amid the stunning landscapes of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Legion Lake
9.1 km
Discover Legion Lake in East Custer, South Dakota – a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring swimming, fishing, and scenic hiking trails.
Lenker Rock
9.1 km
Explore Lenker Rock, a captivating historical landmark in beautiful Custer, South Dakota, where nature and heritage intertwine.
Wildlife Loop Road
9.3 km
Experience the breathtaking Wildlife Loop Road in South Dakota, a scenic drive through Custer State Park showcasing stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Wildlife Loop Rd
9.3 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, South Dakota, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Bison Center
9.3 km
Discover the Bison Center in Fairburn, SD, where immersive exhibits meet the breathtaking beauty of America's iconic bison in their natural habitat.
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
Experience authentic American cuisine in Custer's scenic beauty at Dockside Grill – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and nature.
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
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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
Experience family-friendly dining at Peggy's Place in Keystone, SD – where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Sirloin Steak Tips
18.5 km
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mt Rushmore/Keystone, an IHG Hotel
18.5 km
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
Experience delicious burgers and cheesesteaks at Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks in Keystone, SD - where flavor meets friendly service.
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
18.6 km
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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
Discover local goods and snacks at Legion Lake Convenience Store, your gateway to exploring the beautiful Black Hills and Custer State Park.
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
18.1 km
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Rattlesnake Jake's
18.1 km
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Genuine Black Hills Gold-Knife and Survival Supplies
18.1 km
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Whispering PinesT-Shirts
18.1 km
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South Dakota gifts and souvenirs
18.1 km
Explore the charm of South Dakota through unique gifts and souvenirs that reflect the rich culture and heritage of the Black Hills region.
Usa Shop
18.2 km
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Dahl's Chainsaw Art
18.4 km
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Needles View Emporium
18.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
79 Lounge & Casino
17.2 km
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Needles
19.4 km
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Needles Eye Tunnel
19.4 km
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Old Pine Social
19.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Pine Social, Custer's top amusement center, offering endless fun and relaxation for all ages.
Gold Pan Saloon Custer
20.0 km
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Calamity Jane Coffee Shop and Grill
20.0 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Magnuson Grand Rushmore View
18.2 km
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K Bar S Lodge, Ascend Hotel Collection
19.3 km
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The Custer Beacon
20.1 km
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Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company & Pounding Fathers Restaurant
20.3 km
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The Frontier Bar & Grill
21.4 km
Experience the heart of American dining at The Frontier Bar & Grill, where hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere await in Custer, South Dakota.
Silver Dollar Saloon
27.3 km
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Joe's Place Bar & Grill
36.8 km
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Robbinsdale Lounge
39.1 km
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Blue Lantern Lounge
39.3 km
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Sun Inn Lounge
39.4 km
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Sally O'Malley's Pub & Casino
39.6 km
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Brass Rail Lounge
39.9 km
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Juniper at Vertex Sky Bar
39.9 km
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Oasis Lounge
40.0 km
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445 Martini Lounge
40.0 km
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