The Custer State Park Wildlife Loop is a must-visit attraction for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. This 18-mile scenic drive through the heart of the park offers a chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, deer, elk, and more. When planning your visit, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is which entrance to use to start your journey on the Wildlife Loop.
East Entrance: The Convenient Choice
The East Entrance, located near the Custer State Park Visitor Center, is a popular starting point for the Wildlife Loop. This entrance is the closest to the Mount Rushmore area and the Iron Mountain Road, making it a convenient option for many visitors. By starting from the East Entrance, you’ll be able to dive right into the scenic drive and have the opportunity to spot wildlife early in your journey.
Advantages of the East Entrance:
- Proximity to Major Attractions: The East Entrance is situated near popular destinations like Mount Rushmore and the Iron Mountain Road, making it a logical starting point for many visitors.
- Visitor Center Access: Starting from the East Entrance allows you to easily access the Custer State Park Visitor Center, where you can gather information, purchase permits, and prepare for your Wildlife Loop adventure.
- Early Wildlife Sightings: By entering the park from the East, you’ll have a better chance of spotting active wildlife in the morning hours, when the animals are more likely to be out and about.
Other Entrance Options
While the East Entrance is a popular choice, you can also access the Wildlife Loop from other entrances around the park. The decision on which entrance to use may depend on your starting location, time of day, or personal preference.
West Entrance
The West Entrance, located near the town of Custer, is another option for accessing the Wildlife Loop. This entrance may be more convenient for visitors coming from the west or those who want to explore the western side of the park first.
South Entrance
The South Entrance, situated near the town of Hermosa, is the third main access point to the Wildlife Loop. This entrance may be preferred by visitors coming from the south or those who want to experience the southern portion of the park before embarking on the loop.
Factors to Consider
When choosing the best entrance to start the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop, consider the following factors:
- Location: Determine which entrance is closest to your starting point or the other attractions you plan to visit during your trip.
- Time of Day: If you’re aiming to spot wildlife early in the morning, the East Entrance may be the better choice, as it allows you to dive into the loop more quickly.
- Visitor Preferences: Some visitors may prefer to start from a specific entrance based on their personal interests or the direction they want to travel around the loop.
Ultimately, the choice of which entrance to use is a personal decision, and any of the three main entrances can provide a fantastic starting point for your Custer State Park Wildlife Loop adventure.
How Long Does It Take to Drive the Wildlife Loop?
The Custer State Park Wildlife Loop is an 18-mile scenic drive that typically takes a minimum of 1.5 to 2 hours to complete without any stops. However, it’s recommended to set aside at least half a day for your Wildlife Loop experience, as you’ll likely want to make multiple stops along the way to observe wildlife, hike, or simply take in the stunning natural scenery.
Factors Affecting Drive Time
Several factors can influence the time it takes to complete the Wildlife Loop:
- Wildlife Sightings: If you encounter a herd of bison, pronghorn, or other animals along the way, you may want to slow down or stop to observe them, which can add time to your drive.
- Hiking and Exploration: The Wildlife Loop offers two hiking trails – the Prairie Trail and the Centennial Trail – that you may want to explore, adding to your overall time in the park.
- Traffic and Congestion: During peak visitation times, you may encounter more vehicles on the loop, which can slow down your progress.
- Stops for Photography: The Wildlife Loop is renowned for its stunning scenery, and you’ll likely want to stop frequently to capture the perfect shots, further extending your drive time.
Best Time of Day to Drive the Wildlife Loop
The best time of day to drive the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop is in the early morning, typically between 6 AM and 10 AM. During these hours, the wildlife is generally more active and visible, as they tend to seek shade and rest during the hotter midday and afternoon hours.
Advantages of an Early Morning Drive
- Greater Wildlife Sightings: The early morning is the prime time to spot bison, pronghorn, deer, elk, and other animals as they graze and move around the park.
- Fewer Crowds: Visiting the Wildlife Loop in the morning means you’ll encounter fewer other vehicles and visitors, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive experience.
- Optimal Lighting: The soft, golden light of the early morning can create stunning photographic opportunities, making it the ideal time to capture the natural beauty of the park.
Considerations for Afternoon Drives
While the morning is the best time to drive the Wildlife Loop, you can still enjoy the experience in the afternoon. However, keep in mind that the animals may be less active and more difficult to spot during the warmer hours of the day. Additionally, the park may be busier with more visitors, which can impact your ability to move freely and observe the wildlife.
Regardless of the time of day you choose to drive the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop, be sure to plan for a leisurely and enjoyable experience. With the right timing and a bit of luck, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the park’s diverse and captivating wildlife in their natural habitat.
References:
- https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/trip-ideas/story/wildlife-loop-state-scenic-byway
- https://blackhawkcreekrvpark.com/guide-to-driving-the-scenic-custer-state-park-wildlife-loop/
- https://wereintherockies.com/wildlife-loop-custer-state-park/
- https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/scenic-drives/wildlife-loop
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60865-d125412-Reviews-Wildlife_Loop_Road-Custer_South_Dakota.html