See South Dakota’s best sights from the best seat: your car. There are truly stunning scenic drives in South Dakota where you don’t even have to leave your vehicle. Many of the best scenic drives are near the Badlands and Black Hills in South Dakota. If you want to start one of many South Dakota scenic drives, then the best place to take off from is at Rushmore Express. We aren’t far from some of the best attractions, sights, and scenic drives South Dakota has to offer its visitors.
Best Scenic Drives In South Dakota
Grab some snacks and load the family into the car. Don’t forget your camera along the way, too. These are the best scenic drives in South Dakota that you can find a short way away from the Rushmore Express.
Needles Highway
This is an easy one to find because it’s located near the Rushmore Express. This loop connects the Mount Rushmore National Monument, the northern rim of Custer State Park, and the Sylvan Lake area, home to Black Elk Peak and the Cathedral Spires. The highlight of this section of road is the 17-mile northbound stretch of pavement from Center Lake (located off Playhouse Road) to U.S. Highway 385. Along this part of the highway is the “Hole in the Wall” and three tunnels (including Needles Eye), Sylvan Lake.
Custer State Park Wildlife Loop
While this section of highway doesn’t offer that many stunning natural scenes, what it does offer that other scenic drives don’t is the abundance of wildlife. Along your drive, you will see herds of bison, burros, prairie dogs, and more. The loop covers 18 miles, which provides approximately 71,000 acres to explore and discover. We recommend starting in the early morning at the “Game Lodge” entrance.
Highway U.S. 14: Spearfish to Roughlock Falls
The Spearfish to Roughlock Falls scenic drive is a thrilling route to see for yourself in South Dakota. It’s the variety of sights and natural attractions that make this path stand out. A lot of the road will follow Spearfish Creek, which is a popular hangout for anglers and swimmers. Some of the highlights along the road are the Spearfish Community Caves, Bridal Veil Falls, the Devil’s Bathtub, Iron Creek, Roughlock Falls, and Spearfish Falls.
Enjoy The View From The Comfort Of Your Car
The scenic drives in South Dakota are unmatched, and the best starting point possible is from the Rushmore Express. Besides the stunning views you can see just out of your room window, you will find relaxing amenities and luxuries, including granite fireplaces, 55-inch televisions, complimentary wifi, whirlpools, and in-room coffee. Book directly online or call 605-666-4483 today.