Cruising Through One of the Most Outstanding Drives in America: The Iconic Needles Highway | Black Hills Travel Blog

Cruising Through One of the Most Outstanding Drives in America: The Iconic Needles Highway

  • Cruising Through One of the Most Outstanding Drives in America: The Iconic Needles Highway
    Cruising Through One of the Most Outstanding Drives in America: The Iconic Needles Highway
Updated: 
Thursday, May 4, 2023
By : 
Black Hills and Badlands Tourism

The Needles Highway is undoubtedly one of the most outstanding drives in America, located in the beloved Black Hills region of South Dakota. It passes smoothly through the rugged granite landscape and affords breathtaking views of the area's natural beauty.

History of Needles Highway

The Needles Highway was built in 1922 and stretches approximately 14 miles from Sylvan Lake to Highway 244. It was designed to provide visitors with access to the scenic areas of the park, including several impressive rock towers, spires, and needles.

Points of Interest

Driving the highway will undoubtedly provide an unforgettable experience. The road itself is a remarkable work of engineering, featuring several hairpin turns, narrow tunnels, and breathtaking switchbacks that weave in and out of the granite spires. Points of interest along the way include multiple scenic pullovers, which provide awe-inspiring views of the Cathedral Spires, canyons and valleys, and the occasional wildlife and flora sighting.

Cathedral Spires

No trip through "The Needles" is complete without a stopping to gaze upon the humbling nature of the spires. These magnificent, soaring rocks tower over 6,000 feet above sea level, providing a postcard-perfect backdrop for your personal photo album or Instagram feed.

Wildlife

While driving through Needles Highway, slow down for a moment and keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife. Bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk, and deer are all common visitors to the area and could make for a picturesque sighting.

Tips for visitors

If you plan on taking a drive, we recommend that you wear layers for those cool summer nights, bring your camera, and be prepared for one of the most breathtaking drives in America.

Needles Highway is an awe-inspiring drive that brings visitors face-to-face with the astonishing, rugged beauty of the Black Hills region. It's a must-drive for anyone looking to experience the best of South Dakota.

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