Whether you're in Sturgis for the world's biggest motorcycle rally or just hitting the road in the Black Hills, let the rubber meet the road on these one-of-a-kind cruises.
Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway
People though Peter Norbeck was crazy when he executed his plan to create a highway that twisted and turned through granite pinnacles in Custer State Park. Today, the byway that bears his name is a loop made up of four highways — including Norbeck’s creation, now known as Needles Highway — and a whole bunch of beauty, including spiraling pigtail bridges, mountain lakes, and the potential for a buffalo traffic jam.
Wildlife Loop State Scenic Byway
If it’s wildlife ye seek, it’s wildlife you’ll find in Custer State Park. The byway takes you on an 18-mile loop that’s likely to show you buffalo, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, deer, elk, coyote, prairie dogs, wild turkeys, and some “wild” burros that’ll be happy to make your acquaintance.
Spearfish Canyon State and National Forest Service Scenic Byway
If you like pretty, enjoy 19 miles of it. Spearfish Canyon takes you gently through a mountain canyon complete with a flowing creek, variety of hillside trees, and three waterfalls. (Waterfalls in South Dakota? You betcha.) And the fall colors? Well, one cruise when the leaves are popping may have you coming back year after year.
Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway
Okay, so this one isn’t technically in the Black Hills, but it’s close – and unique – enough to mention. Just 60 away from Rapid City is a 39-mile loop that takes you through an otherworldly landscape of craggy buttes and rock formations. Don’t be surprised if you spot some wildlife from behind your windscreen. Pronghorn antelope, deer, prairie dogs and even the sneaky mountain goat call this weird place home.
