The highways and scenic byways, as well as an extensive network of backcountry lanes, make the Black Hills and Badlands of western South Dakota a driver’s delight. From hairpin curves, mountain-carved tunnels and eagle-eye views, to wide-open meadows and ranges with bountiful wildlife, to deep canyon passageways along sparkling mountain creeks, a family drive offers every pleasure from thrills and chills to blissful, serene relaxation.
As you wind your way along the area’s spectacular scenic drives, you will experience a sightseeing adventure of wilderness, wildlife and waterways. Custer State Park’s 70-mile Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, threading its way around the Pigtail Bridges, through one-lane rock-walled tunnels, and ascending to the uppermost heights of the Needles and Harney Peak in Custer State Park, is considered one of the Most Outstanding Byways in America. No less spectacular is the Hills’ other noted National Scenic Byway – Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway.The Canyon’s thousand-foot-high limestone palisades, richly and uniquely landscaped by all manner of woodlands fauna and flora, line Hwy. 14A as it twists through the 19-mile gorge between the towns of Spearfish and Lead. Three waterfalls only add to the wonder of Spearfish Canyon.
