One of the highlights of our recent vacation in South Dakota was a pair of visits to
Custer State Park. Our first visit to Custer State Park was preceded by a trip to Mt. Rushmore National Monument. From Mt. Rushmore, the shortest route into Custer State Park is US Route 16A. Also known as Iron Mountain Road, this route passes through three tunnels and multiple switchbacks and loops that frame views of Mt. Rushmore. There are also several scenic turnouts and parking areas that allow you to see panoramic views of the Black Hills and the plains to the east of the park.
At the eastern edge of the park Route 16A joins up with South Dakota Highway 36. SD 36 will lead you east out of the park. If you continue west on 16A, you will need to
purchase a South Dakota State Park entrance permit. As of July 2017, annual permits cost $30; Custer State Park also offers the option of a 7-day pass for $20. We chose to purchase the 7-day pass as we did not intend to visit any other South Dakota State Park. A short drive from the entrance gate is the east end of the park's Wildlife Loop Road.
