Anywhere you drive in the Mount Rushmore State is bound to be bursting with beautiful scenery, but driving down this one highway in Custer lets you experience our state in a whole new light. Surrounded by rock formations, you'll be engulfed in gorgeous landscapes, but if you're claustrophobic, you might want to prepare for this one tunnel. This natural wonder might be intimidating to some, but it's so worth seeing.
Needles Highway in Custer State Park is a beautiful scenic drive.
The name doesn't come from the entrance being small as a needle, it's actually named after this rock formation nearby. Despite looking fragile, it's been around for hundreds of years.
Needles Eye can be found along Needles Highway in Custer State Park.
Have you driven through South Dakota's narrowest tunnel? What did you think? Let us know in the comments!
This is one of the top road trip destinations in the state. If you can't decide where to go next, try one of these South Dakota road trips we planned for you.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
If you are looking to add excitement to your year, why not plan a road trip to some of Mount Rushmore State's most fascinating destinations? While some of these trips may not be suitable all year round, you can plan ahead and discover some breathtaking places to visit throughout the year. Each trip has a link to the original article, where you can find an interactive map and more information and travel tips about each stop. Put the best road trips in South Dakota on your list this year, and get ready to explore your home state like a tourist!
Route: Queen City Bakery > Porter Sculpture Walk > The Corn Palace > The Back 40 > South Dakota Hall of Fame > 1880 Town > Badlands National Park: Pinnacles Overlook > Wall Drug > Dinosaur Park
Distance: 375 miles
Trip Time: 6 hours driving time
If you're searching for an affordable way to explore the Midwest, you're in luck! There are plenty of fantastic places to visit, and it won't require you to spend a fortune on gas. A road trip from Sioux Falls to Rapid City (or the other way around) will take you to some of the state's most fascinating attractions, like the South Dakota Hall of Fame and the Corn Palace, covering 371 miles and just a little over one tank of gas. So buckle up and get ready to discover some hidden gems on this one-day South Dakota road trip.
Route: Newton Hills State Park > Lake Vermillion Recreation Area > Lewis and Clark Recreation Area > North Point Recreation Area > Oahe Downstream Recreation Area > Ravine Lake in Huron > Mina Lake Recreation Area > Hartford Beach State Park > Lake Poinsett Recreation Area
Distance: 787 miles
Trip Time: 13.5 hours driving time
Have you ever considered South Dakota as a beach destination? You might be surprised that this Midwestern state boasts some beautiful sandy beaches. If you're up for an adventure, why not take a weekend road trip to discover South Dakota's hidden beaches? This road trip will take you from the southern part of the state to the northern part covering a distance of 789 miles and stopping at beaches like Hartford Beach State Park and Newton Hills State Park. By planning to spend a few nights along the way, you can truly soak up the beauty each beach offers. So don't worry about trying to do it all at once – take your time and enjoy all the hidden gems along the way.
Route: Big Badlands Overlook > White River Valley Overlook > Bigfoot Pass Overlook > Panorama Point > Prairie Wind Overlook > Burns Basin Overlook > Homestead Overlook > Conata Basin Overlook > Yellow Mounds Overlook > Conata Picnic Area > Ancient Hunters Overlook > Pinnacles Overlook
Distance: 40 miles
Trip Time: 1 hour and 15 minute driving time
South Dakota is often overlooked and has much to offer beyond just Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, like the Badlands Loop Road. The Badlands Loop Road is one of the best road trips in America and a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won't want to miss. This scenic drive will take you on a journey through the Badlands National Park, where you can witness the breathtaking beauty of the natural landscapes and rock formations. As you drive along the highway, you'll feel like you're on another planet, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the area's layered rock formations. The park spans over 240,000 acres, so there's plenty to see and explore. The best part about the Badlands Loop Road is that it takes you through the center of the park, so you can easily see all the best overlooks and viewpoints and experience the beauty up close. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife as you drive through the park - you never know what you might see!
Thinking of taking a one-of-a-kind drive in South Dakota? Look no further than the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway in the Black Hills. But beware, one section of this road is not for the faint of heart. The Iron Mountain Road portion is a 17-mile stretch of the byway and is the windiest road in the state, with 314 curves and 14 switchbacks. Additionally, you'll go through three tunnels carved into the side of the mountain, which can be nerve-wracking, but once you make it through, a stunning view of Mt. Rushmore will be your reward. The Iron Mountain Road is a thrilling and unforgettable drive for those up for the challenge.
Route: Custer State Park Welcome Center > Coolidge General Store > Blue Bell Stables > Buffalo Corrals > Wildlife Station Visitor's Center
Distance: 18 miles
Trip Time: 2 hours driving time
Have you been looking for a picturesque and unforgettable drive in South Dakota? We recommend taking the Wildlife Loop Road. Situated in Custer State Park, this 18-mile scenic drive is a must-see for anyone who loves nature and wildlife. As you wind through the Black Hills landscape, keep your eyes peeled for all kinds of animals, from pronghorn to bighorn sheep to burros to bison and even prairie dogs. You might even spot some magnificent birds soaring overhead. Since the area is home to so many animals, it's important to drive slowly - the recommended speed limit is just 25 miles per hour or less. So hop in your car, roll down the windows, and get ready for an incredible bucket list adventure.
Get your car gassed up and rally your friends because it's time to experience the state's stunning waterfalls. While many people know South Dakota for its famous landmarks and history, few are aware of the abundance of breathtaking waterfalls. If you're a waterfall enthusiast or just looking for a unique adventure, this is the perfect South Dakota road trip itinerary for you. This two-and-a-half-hour drive will take you to epic waterfalls such as Bridal Veil Falls and Cascade Falls and is an excellent trip to complete in a day, so don't miss out on seeing these natural wonders in one unforgettable stretch.
Route: Rapid City > Hermosa > Custer State Park > Black Hills Parkway > Cheyenne Crossing > Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway > Vanocker Canyon > Sturgis > Nemo > Rapid City
Distance: 189 miles
Trip Time: 4.5 hours driving time
If you're looking for a beautiful way to experience the fall foliage, we have just the road trip for you. Taking this route will show you some of the best drives for the season, and you'll be able to witness the breathtaking fall colors that South Dakota has to offer. The trip is about four and a half hours long and starts and ends in Rapid City. You can go in either direction, but we recommend heading south on SD-79 from Rapid City to Hermosa, with stops at Custer State Park and Vanocker Canyon, to name a few. Get ready to be awed by the stunning colors of autumn on this ride.
We discovered the most magical Christmas towns and can't wait to share them with you! Use this South Dakota road trip map to visit some of the most beloved Christmas towns, which have some of the most charming and festive Main Streets that are all decked out with thousands of beautiful lights. A standout is the Winter Wonderland at Falls Park; can you believe they have 25 miles of light strings? How about the town of Madison, where Christmas music accompanies the dancing lights? Whichever destination you choose along the route, you're guaranteed a festive time.
Route: Petrified Wood Park Castle > Storybook Island Castle > Badlands Castles > Enchanted World Castle > The World’s Only Corn Palace > Storybook Land Castle
Distance: 600 miles
Trip Time: 9.5 hours driving time
Are you a fan of all things magical and enchanting? If so, you won't want to miss this incredible road trip
to South Dakota's most majestic castles. With over 600 miles to cover, this road trip will take you on a journey through some of the most impressive ones in the state. On this road trip map, you can check out multiple destinations like the Petrified Wood Park Castle, Badlands Castles, and the Enchanted World Castle. Feel free to start where ever makes the most sense to you and edit the map in any way. Whether you're traveling with a group of friends or with your family, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Road Trip to South Dakota Landmarks & Natural Wonders
This state has so many natural wonders, from mountains and waterfalls to incredible caves and caverns. On this three-hour trip, you'll check out caves like Jewel Cave National Monument and Wind Cave National Park in Custer, where you can take cave tours. And if you're a fan of waterfalls, you're in for a real treat - you'll be stopping off at Roughlock Falls and Spearfish Falls in Lead. So whether you're on the search for caves and waterfalls or just love exploring new sights, this itinerary is the ticket.
Route: Royal Bake Shop >Flyboy Donuts > Daylight Donuts > Donut Shoppe > Wall Drug Store > Jerry’s Cakes & Donuts
Distance: 467 miles
Trip Time: 7 hours driving time
What better way to check out the small towns in the area than finding out the best donut shops in each one? This road trip will take you to a variety of delicious donut shops through the most charming small towns, such as Royal Bake Shop in Centerville and Daylight Donuts in Mitchell. The route promises to be a delightfully indulgent adventure where you can spread the trip out over a weekend or check out a couple for a quick day trip. So hit the road today and satisfy your sweet tooth.
So, whether you're looking for weekend road trips in South Dakota or quick road trips in South Dakota, we hope this list helps your search! Is your favorite road trip through South Dakota on this list? Let us know -we'd love to hear from you! Need more ideas for things to do in the wild wild West? Staying at the campground of Cedar Pass Lodge in the Badlands might be the ticket.
