Traveling from Keystone to Custer State Park
Traveling from Keystone to Custer State Park offers a scenic journey through the Black Hills of South Dakota. Whether you choose the direct route or the scenic byway, this trip provides opportunities to explore iconic landmarks, wildlife, and the natural beauty of the region.
Distance and Time
The direct drive from Keystone to Custer State Park is approximately 25.5 miles (41 km) and should take around 38 minutes in normal traffic. However, if you opt for the scenic Iron Mountain Road, the journey can take 1-2 hours to complete, depending on the number of stops you make along the way.
Route Options
1. Iron Mountain Road:
This scenic byway connects Keystone to Custer State Park, offering stunning views of the Black Hills. The road features 14 switchbacks, 314 hairpin curves, 3 pigtail bridges, and 3 narrow tunnels, making it a truly unique and memorable driving experience. It’s important to note that this road is not maintained in the winter, so plan your trip accordingly.
2. US-16A:
This route connects Keystone to Custer State Park via Mount Rushmore National Memorial, allowing you to visit the iconic monument during your journey.
3. Wildlife Loop Road:
This road is part of Custer State Park and offers opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, such as bison and pronghorn antelope.
Attractions
Mount Rushmore National Memorial:
A famous monument featuring the carved faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.
Custer State Park:
This state park is known for its diverse wildlife, scenic drives, and outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
Iron Mountain Road Visitor Center:
Located along the scenic byway, this visitor center provides historic information and a gift shop, making it a great stop for travelers.
Cost
The cost of gas for the trip from Keystone to Custer State Park is estimated to be between $2 and $5, depending on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
Tips
- Tunnel Clearances: Be aware of the tunnel clearances on Iron Mountain Road, as they can be quite narrow: Doane Robinson Tunnel (13’2″ wide, 12’2″ high), C.C. Gideon Tunnel (13’0″ wide, 11″0″ high), and Scovel Johnson Tunnel (13’2″ wide, 12’4″ high).
- Winter Maintenance: As mentioned earlier, Iron Mountain Road is not maintained in the winter, so plan your trip accordingly if you’re visiting during the colder months.
By considering the various route options, attractions, and tips, you can plan a memorable and enjoyable trip from Keystone to Custer State Park, exploring the natural wonders and iconic landmarks of the Black Hills region.
References
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g60908-i2341-k14685989-Which_direction_best-Keystone_South_Dakota.html
- https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Keystone/Custer-State-Park
- https://traveltheparks.com/why-drive-iron-mountain-road-custer-state-park-to-keystone-sd/
- https://wanderlog.com/drive/between/59165/58728/keystone-to-custer-drive
- https://www.driftlessroadsusa.com/product-page/keystone-custer-loop