Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway
A figure-eight scenic byway in the Black Hills, made up of Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road and a wildlife loop. A narrow tunnel frames Mount Rushmore, and herds of bison roam Custer State Park.
The Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway is named after the South Dakota governor and senator who championed these roads. It is about 70 miles (110 km) long and forms a figure eight around Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore. It has three sections. Needles Highway (SD 87) starts at Sylvan Lake and passes through the Needles, an area of granite spires, including Cathedral Spires and the famous Needles Eye Tunnel, which is only about 2.6 m wide. Iron Mountain Road (US 16A) is known for its pigtail spiral bridges and three tunnels, each of which perfectly frames the Mount Rushmore presidential sculptures in the distance. The Wildlife Loop Road (about 29 km) crosses the grasslands of Custer State Park, where you can often see a herd of about 1,300 bison, pronghorn, prairie dogs, and 'begging burros' that approach visitors for handouts. Plan at least one day, and consider staying at Sylvan Lake or in the state park lodges. Tunnels have height and width limits, so large RVs cannot pass; check your vehicle's dimensions before you go. A pass is required to enter Custer State Park. Do not get out of your car to approach bison.