The Custer State Park Audio Tour is a self-guided driving experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota. This comprehensive tour provides an in-depth exploration of the park’s natural beauty, educational programs, and guidelines for interacting with the local wildlife.
Highlights of the Wildlife Loop Scenic Drive
The Wildlife Loop Scenic Drive is one of the most popular attractions within Custer State Park, offering visitors the opportunity to witness a variety of wildlife in their natural habitats. Some of the key highlights of this scenic drive include:
- Wildlife Spotting: The drive provides excellent chances to see bison, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, coyotes, and the famous “begging” burros that have become a beloved part of the park’s ecosystem.
- Scenic Route: The Wildlife Loop takes visitors through the stunning landscapes of Custer State Park, showcasing the park’s unique natural features, such as rolling hills, pine forests, and dramatic rock formations.
Educational Programs Available During the Summer Months
Custer State Park offers a range of educational programs and activities during the summer months, catering to visitors of all ages. These programs provide valuable insights into the park’s natural and cultural history, as well as opportunities to engage with the local wildlife and environment. Some of the key educational programs include:
- Guided Tours: Park rangers lead guided tours that explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, highlighting the unique flora and fauna found within.
- Nature Walks: Visitors can join naturalist-led walks to learn about the park’s native plants, wildlife, and geological features.
- Wildlife Viewing: Specialized programs focus on observing and understanding the behavior of the park’s resident wildlife, such as bison, elk, and bighorn sheep.
Rules and Regulations for Interacting With Wildlife
Custer State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, and it is essential for visitors to follow the established rules and regulations to ensure the safety of both humans and animals. These guidelines include:
- Maintain a Safe Distance: Visitors should always maintain a safe distance from wildlife, especially bison and elk, to avoid any potential risks or harm.
- Respect Wildlife Habitat: Visitors should refrain from feeding or approaching the animals, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and cause harm to the wildlife.
Custer State Park Audio Tour Details
The Custer State Park Audio Tour offers a comprehensive and flexible way to explore the park at your own pace. Here are the key details about the tour:
- Duration: The audio tour can be completed in 4 to 12 hours, depending on your pace and the amount of time you spend at each stop.
- Cost: The self-guided audio driving tour costs $24.99 per vehicle, with no additional fees for entrance or national park passes.
- Offline Access: The tour works offline using GPS, so you do not need cell service or WiFi to access the audio content.
- Flexibility: The tour allows you to create your own itinerary and spend more time at places that interest you, with no time limits or expiry.
Additional Information
Custer State Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, particularly the herd of around 1,500 North American Bison that call the park home. In addition to the Wildlife Loop Scenic Drive, the park offers several other scenic drives, including the Needles Highway, which showcases the park’s stunning rock formations and vistas.
By taking the Custer State Park Audio Tour, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the Black Hills, learn about the park’s rich history and ecology, and gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance between humans and the natural world.