Discover the Untamed Beauty of Wildlife Loop Road
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, South Dakota, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Wildlife Loop Road in East Custer, South Dakota, is a scenic drive offering breathtaking views and opportunities to see diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. This picturesque route is a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Wildlife Loop Rd
- East Custer, South Dakota, US
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars for a closer look at the wildlife and the stunning scenery.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks along the road.
- Take your time driving; the speed limit is low to ensure safety for wildlife and drivers.
- Check for any road closures or seasonal information before you go.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Mount Rushmore National Memorial visitor center, head north toward SD-244. Continue walking along the designated pathways until you reach the main road. Turn left onto SD-244 and follow it for about 1.5 miles. You will see signs for Wildlife Loop Rd on your right. Follow the signs, and you will arrive at the entrance of Wildlife Loop Rd.
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Biking
If you have access to a bicycle, start from the Mount Rushmore visitor center and take the bike path leading north. Stay on the bike path until it merges onto SD-244. Continue cycling for approximately 1.5 miles, keeping an eye out for the Wildlife Loop Rd sign on your right. Turn onto Wildlife Loop Rd and enjoy the scenic views.
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Public Transport (Shuttle)
If you prefer not to walk or bike, check if there is a local shuttle service available that operates from the Mount Rushmore visitor center to Wildlife Loop Rd. You can ask at the visitor center for shuttle schedules and pick-up locations. Once on the shuttle, inform the driver of your destination to ensure you are dropped off near the entrance of Wildlife Loop Rd.
Discover more about Wildlife Loop Rd
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 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 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
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 the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts in South Dakota.
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 Wildlife Station Visitor Center in Custer State Park, a gateway to stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife in South Dakota's natural paradise.
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 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
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
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.
