Custer State Park in South Dakota offers a diverse range of UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the stunning Black Hills region. From scenic mountain routes to challenging off-road adventures, this park provides a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area while navigating a variety of terrain.
Custer State Park UTV Trails: Navigating the Scenic Routes
Custer State Park boasts several UTV trails that offer breathtaking views and a range of difficulty levels. Here are some of the top trails to consider:
1. Custer Mountain Cutoff
- A scenic 6-mile trail winding through ponderosa pines and quaking aspens, with gates to close behind you.
- Tech rating: 2 (easy)
2. FS 2A
- A two-track dirt road leading to a dead end at a kelly hump/tank trap, with great camping spots along the way.
- Length: 1.5 miles
- Tech rating: 2 (easy)
3. White House Gulch FS RD 477
- A dirt two-track trail with great views of the southern Black Hills.
- May be impassable when wet.
- Length: 4.4 miles
- Tech rating: 3 (easy)
4. Medicine Mountain Road
- A road that starts out two-vehicles wide and narrows as it goes, with an old corral and a one-lane bridge.
- Length: 6.8 miles
- Tech rating: 1 (easy)
5. Bear Mountain Lookout to Pactola Reservoir
- A scenic route that runs North/South from Custer Limestone road to US Highway 16, passing through cattle grazing areas.
- Length: 8.4 miles
- Tech rating: 2 (easy)
Regulations and Permits for UTV Use in Custer State Park
Before embarking on your UTV adventure in Custer State Park, it’s important to be aware of the necessary regulations and permits:
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Motorized Trail Permit: A permit is required for riding in the Black Hills National Forest, including Custer State Park. The permit costs $20.00 for a daily pass or $25.00 for an annual pass.
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Vehicle Registration and Licensing: UTVs must be licensed and registered in your state, and must have a horn.
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Trail Access: Licensed vehicles can ride from trail to highway and back to the trail, but some trails may have specific restrictions or requirements.
Rental Options and Information Resources
For those who don’t own a UTV, there are several rental options available in the Custer State Park area:
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UTV Rentals: Adventure Rentals (Phone: 866-445-5386, Website: http://www.adventurerentalssd.com/)
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Jeep Rentals: Outdoor Adventures (Phone: 605-673-2650, Website: https://oa-us.com/)
Additionally, there are several resources available to help plan your Custer State Park UTV adventure:
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onX Maps: Offers detailed trail guides and maps for off-road adventures in the Black Hills.
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Adventure Rentals: Provides information on popular off-road rides and trails in the Black Hills.
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Black Hills & Badlands of South Dakota: Offers information on off-road riding and trails in the region.
Conclusion
Custer State Park in South Dakota offers a unique and exciting opportunity for UTV enthusiasts to explore the stunning Black Hills region. With a variety of scenic trails, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Remember to familiarize yourself with the necessary regulations and permits, and take advantage of the available rental and information resources to make the most of your Custer State Park UTV adventure.
References
- https://www.onxmaps.com/offroad/beginner-offroad-trails-near-me/custer-sd
- https://adventurerentalssd.com/places-to-go-off-road/
- https://www.custersd.com/Off-Road-Adventures
- https://www.maverickforums.net/threads/needles-highway-custer-state-park-black-hills-national-forest-south-dakota.125786/
- https://www.blackhillsbadlands.com/off-roading