South Dakota Scenic Drives Guide

South Dakota Map & Welcome

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 09:43:14 +0000

WELCOME TO

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National Scenic Byways

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:02:41 +0000

On South Dakota’s two federally designated byways, the journey truly is the destination. Drink in expansive views from the state’s highest peaks while driving on a marvel of modern engineering, and follow the winding path of the Missouri River to explore South Dakota’s deeply layered past.

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Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:46:33 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 70 miles Trip Length: 1-2 days Start/Stop: Keystone or Custer

The twists and turns of this historic byway reveal some of western South Dakota’s most stunning views and connect a few of the state’s iconic landmarks — our “Great 8” — in a single day’s drive. To truly soak up its splendors, leave yourself plenty of time for sightseeing — or better yet, stretch out your trip with a stay at one of the cozy lodges on the route.

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Native American National & State Scenic Byway

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:47:26 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 496 miles Trip Length: 2-3 days Start/Stop: Vermillion or Mobridge

South Dakota’s rich cultural roots unfold on this historic corridor that traverses the homelands of five Lakota tribes. As you follow the mighty Missouri River, you’ll pass by important Indigenous landmarks as well as sites connected to Lewis and Clark, whose Corps of Discovery explored the region on its famous expedition of the American West in 1804.

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State Scenic Byways

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:02:56 +0000

From the moon-like expanses of Badlands National Park to the impressive cliffs of Spearfish Canyon, discover one-of-a-kind experiences on South Dakota’s four state scenic byways.

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Badlands Loop Scenic Byway

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:49:35 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 39 miles Trip Length: 1 day Start/Stop: Wall or Cactus Flat

As you enter the Badlands on pin-straight SD Highway 240, rolling grasslands give way to otherworldly rock formations that could be mistaken for prehistoric sandcastles. Just one hour from Rapid City, this is a place that was once roamed by ancient horses and saber-toothed cats, and its 244,000 acres still brim with wildlife.

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Wildlife Loop Scenic Byway

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:37:46 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 31 miles Trip Length: 1/2 day Start/Stop: Custer State Park

Buffalo still roam in Custer State Park, one of the last truly wild places in the West. Take this loop through the park for a close-up look at these burly beasts and other wild creatures, from speedy pronghorn antelopes to friendly (and hungry!) burros.

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Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:53:34 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 19 miles Trip Length: 1 day Start/Stop: Spearfish or Cheyenne Crossing

The short-but-sweet Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway offers a sampler platter of gorgeous Black Hills scenery. Really take your time exploring this ancient canyon, whose limestone cliffs conceal misty waterfalls, sun-dappled streams and other natural wonders, bookended by two charming towns.

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Skyline Drive

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:53:52 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 2 miles Trip Length: 1 day Start/Stop: Rapid City

This wee route tucked inside Rapid City’s Skyline Wilderness Area provides excellent vantage points of the city and surrounding Black Hills. Take any of the pull-offs or hiking trails for panoramic views, and don’t pass up the chance to stop and play at a few of Rapid City’s favorite attractions. If you want to stretch your legs, leave the car in town and pick up one of the trails from Quincy Street, Flormann Street or Tower Road and switchback your way to the top of the hillside.

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Discovery Routes

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 13:41:07 +0000

These quintessential SoDak drives delight with hidden gems, wondrous vistas and endless opportunities for adventure around every bend.

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Interstate 90

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:38:53 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 475 miles Trip Length: 2 days Start/Stop: Sioux Falls or Belle Fourche

South Dakota’s most traveled road is jam-packed with fun surprises. As you journey across the state, brake for selfies at some of America’s most iconic roadside attractions, from giant jackalopes to a palace made of corn.

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Interstate 29

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:39:14 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 320 miles Trip Length: 2 days Start/Stop: Sisseton or Vermillion

Culture and nature exist in perfect harmony in eastern South Dakota. Take a zigzag route of detours off I-29, the state’s main north/south corridor, to see sculptures, gardens, museums, historical homes, state parks and other places of natural and manmade beauty.

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Oyate Trail

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:10:19 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 420 miles Trip Length: 2-3 days Start/Stop: Vermillion or Hot Springs

Named for the Lakota word meaning “the people,” the Oyate Trail meanders through tribal lands and windswept grasslands along South Dakota’s southern border. This picturesque route offers an unhurried alternative to Interstate 90, beckoning travelers to fully immerse themselves in the region’s captivating history.

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Historic Black to Yellow Trail

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:39:39 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 312 miles Trip Length: 2 days Start/Stop: Brookings or Wall

Sunflowers, small towns and authentic little houses on the prairie are highlights of this drive on one of America’s oldest highways. In the early 1900s, US Highway 14 was promoted as the most direct route between Chicago and Yellowstone National Park; as it passed through South Dakota’s Black Hills, the road was branded the “Black to Yellow Trail” — and many of its historical charms remain today.

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Prairie Highway

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:39:57 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 366 miles Trip Length: 2-3 days Start/Stop: Watertown or Belle Fourche

Travel through South Dakota’s heartland on US Highway 212 to explore wide-open spaces, folksy festivals and a breathtaking tribute to farm life.

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The Revenant Route

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:40:25 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 284 miles Trip Length: 1-2 days Start/Stop: Lemmon or Chamberlain

In 1823, frontiersman Hugh Glass was mauled by a bear and left for dead in South Dakota’s Grand River National Grassland — an epic tale immortalized in the 2015 film “The Revenant.” As you drive, try to imagine crawling the route, as Glass did, to reach the place where his safe haven, Fort Kiowa, once stood.

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Vanocker Canyon

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:21:33 +0000

At a Glance → Distance: 49 miles Trip Length: 1/2 day Start/Stop Sturgis or Deadwood

Ride trails, roam nature and revel in Old West history on this woodsy, winding drive that’s treasured by motorcyclists, ATVers and autumn leaf-peepers alike.

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Travel Resources

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:41:12 +0000

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State & National Parks

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:05:27 +0000

For lovers of the great outdoors, South Dakota is home to six national parks and 63 state parks and recreation areas. From expansive prairie lands and mountains with endless opportunities for exploration to picturesque lakes and forests, these parks showcase the state’s diverse terrain and landscapes.

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Welcome Centers & Rest Areas

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:43:24 +0000

Looking for directions? A place to stretch your legs? South Dakota has six Welcome Centers along I-90 and I-29, where you’ll find knowledgeable travel counselors, maps and brochures, restrooms, free Wi-Fi and more.

Black Hills Visitor Information Center

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Great RV Adventures

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:43:42 +0000

Every year, thousands of travelers hit the highways in South Dakota for the ultimate RV getaway. Before cruising your home-on-wheels across state lines, please review the following safety tips and information on road grades and tunnels.

Steep Grades

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Motorcycling

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:44:53 +0000

South Dakota’s winding roads and wide-open spaces are a match made in heaven for motorcyclists. Whether you’re burning rubber in the Black Hills or chasing endless horizons across the prairie, we recommend reviewing the state’s motorcycling laws to ensure your safety and the safety of others. These laws include equipment rules, noise regulations and licensing.

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Road Conditions

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:44:38 +0000

To keep our roads safe and beautiful, routine maintenance is necessary from time to time. Before you set out, there are several resources available to help make your travels as seamless as possible.

South Dakota 511

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Accessibility Resources

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:23:41 +0000

The 605 state welcomes visitors of all abilities to experience our natural wonders and attractions. Many, like Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Badlands National Park and Wind Cave National Park, are wheelchair accessible and offer special features for people with disabilities. There is also a large selection of accessible accommodations available throughout the state, as well as car-rental services that provide vans and other vehicles for individuals with mobility needs.

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