Discover the Untamed Beauty of Wildlife Loop Road
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich 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 that showcases the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this picturesque route provides a unique opportunity to observe bison, elk, and other native species in their natural habitat. With breathtaking landscapes and multiple viewpoints, it's an unforgettable experience for tourists.
A brief summary to Wildlife Loop Rd
- East Custer, South Dakota, US
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon to spot the most wildlife.
- Bring binoculars for better views of distant animals and birds.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic pull-offs.
- Check for road conditions and wildlife sightings before your trip.
- Drive slowly and cautiously to ensure safety for wildlife and yourself.
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach Wildlife Loop Rd in East Custer from downtown Rapid City, you can take the public bus. Start at the Rapid City Transit Center located at 300 7th St. Board the Route 2 bus towards Canyon Lake. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes, and get off at the stop near the intersection of Highway 16 and South Dakota 36. From there, you will need to walk approximately 1.5 miles south along Highway 16 to reach the entrance of Wildlife Loop Rd.
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Bicycle Rental
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops in downtown Rapid City. Start your journey at the rental location and head south on 7th St towards St. Joseph St. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Mt. Rushmore Rd (Highway 16). Turn left and follow the road for about 7 miles until you reach the entrance to Wildlife Loop Rd. Please ensure you are wearing a helmet and follow all traffic rules.
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Walking
For an adventurous approach, you can walk to Wildlife Loop Rd from downtown Rapid City. Start at the corner of 7th St and Main St. Head south on Main St and continue until you reach the intersection with Mt. Rushmore Rd (Highway 16). Cross over to the left side of the road and follow it for about 7 miles. The path may include some stretches without sidewalks, so be cautious and aware of traffic. After about 2 hours of walking, you will arrive at the entrance to 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 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.
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.
