Needles Highway

Overview

The Needles Highway is a scenic drive in the Black Hills of South Dakota, known for its narrow roads, tunnels, and stunning views of needle-like granite formations. It offers a thrilling and picturesque journey through the heart of the Black Hills.

The Needles Highway is famous for its unique geological features and breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and road trip adventurers.

Road Trip Nature Adventure

Location

Address

SD-87, Custer, South Dakota

Neighborhood: Black Hills

Coordinates

43.714000, -103.620000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

tuesday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

wednesday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

thursday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

friday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

saturday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

sunday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

full day with stops

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to cool

• wildflowers
• waterfalls

summer

warm to hot

• long daylight hours

autumn

cool and crisp

• fall foliage

winter

cold and snowy

• snow-covered landscapes

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check road conditions
Bring warm layers
Carry enough water

What to Bring

essential

Driver's license water snacks

seasonal

jacket gloves scarf

not allowed

No pets on some trails No littering

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• altitude changes
• narrow roads

Medical facilities: nearest hospital is 30 minutes away

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $10

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

casual and comfortable, comfortable shoes and layers, hiking or walking shoes, inappropriate clothing for hiking

Booking Tips

• Not required, but recommended for guided tours
• official website or local tour operators
• varies by tour operator
• not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Black Hills Visitor App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Maps, Attractions, Events

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor centers

Charging Stations: Visitor centers

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Rapid City Regional Airport

Distance: 35 km

Travel Time: 40 minutes

taxi

$50 40 min

public_transport

$10 1 hour

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

car

varies 15 min

bus

varies 20 min

taxi

$20 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique geological features and scenic beauty

Historical Significance: Built during the Great Depression as a public works project

Insider Tips

Best views at sunset
Local guides offer hidden gems

Local Recommendations

• Try local coffee shops
• Ask for guide recommendations

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Needles Eye Overlook

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Iconic Needles Highway view

#NeedlesHighway #BlackHills #SouthDakota

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas none

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy allowed with permit

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Distance: 50 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Monument

Crazy Horse Memorial

Distance: 30 km