Jaw-Dropping Drives Two famous roadways make up the Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway: Needles Highway (SD Highway 87) Once thought impossible to build, this 14-mile highway snakes through the towering granite pinnacles known as the Needles. Plan on pulling off for a photo at two of the most striking formations, Needles Eye and Cathedral Spires . Just up the road, Sylvan Lake Lodge makes an excellent stop for a scenic stroll, meal or overnight stay. Iron Mountain Road (US Highway 16A) Drawing a squiggly line between Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore National Memorial , this 17-mile stretch features 314 curves, 14 switchbacks and three wooden “pigtail” bridges — making it one of the crookedest roads you’ll ever drive. But the real stars of the show are the narrow tunnels that dramatically frame the presidents’ faces as you approach Mount Rushmore from the south. Iron Mountain Road (US Highway 16A) TravelSouthDakota.com // 7
South Dakota Scenic Drives Guide South Dakota Scenic Drives '24: Page 7
