The Black Hills are made for scenic drives. Winding roads lead through pine-covered hills, granite formations, wildlife country, historic towns, and some of the most unforgettable scenery in South Dakota. Whether you’re heading out for a full day of exploring or simply taking the long way back to Holy Smoke Resort, these five scenic drives deserve a spot on your Black Hills itinerary.
1. Iron Mountain Road
Iron Mountain Road is one of the most famous scenic drives in the Black Hills. This winding route features pigtail bridges, beautiful overlooks, and tunnels carefully positioned to frame views of Mount Rushmore. Take your time and enjoy the drive—the road itself is part of the adventure. Because of its narrow tunnels, sharp curves, and low clearances, larger RVs should use an alternate route.
2. Needles Highway
Needles Highway winds through some of the most dramatic scenery in Custer State Park. Towering granite spires, narrow rock tunnels, forested hills, and scenic overlooks make this a drive you’ll want to take slowly. Stop along the way for photos and enjoy the views. The narrow tunnels and tight curves make this route unsuitable for many larger RVs, so RV travelers should check vehicle-size restrictions before taking this road.
3. Wildlife Loop Road
Wildlife Loop Road takes you through the open grasslands and rolling hills of Custer State Park, where you may see bison, pronghorn, deer, prairie dogs, and the park’s famous begging burros. Give yourself plenty of time for this drive because wildlife can be close to—or even standing in—the road. Always stay in your vehicle around bison and give all wildlife plenty of space.
4. Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway
Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is well worth the drive if you have time to explore the northern Black Hills. The route follows Spearfish Creek between towering limestone cliffs, with waterfalls, hiking trails, and beautiful scenery along the way. It’s especially impressive in the fall when the canyon begins to show its autumn colors.
5. Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway
The Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway connects some of the most spectacular scenery in the southern Black Hills, including portions of Iron Mountain Road, Needles Highway, and Custer State Park. With granite peaks, pine forests, tunnels, bridges, and incredible overlooks, it’s a great choice when you want to make the drive itself part of your Black Hills adventure. Allow plenty of time for stops along the way, and remember that some sections have narrow tunnels and restrictions that may not be suitable for larger RVs.
Make Holy Smoke Resort Your Starting Point
With Holy Smoke Resort located just 1.5 miles north of Keystone, you’re in a great location for exploring some of the Black Hills’ most memorable scenic roads. Spend the day winding through granite peaks, pine forests, wildlife country, and historic towns, then return to the resort to relax and plan your next adventure.
Whether you’re staying in one of our modern cabins, bringing your RV, or enjoying our vacation rental, Holy Smoke Resort makes a convenient home base for discovering the beauty of the Black Hills.