From Rapid City: Custer State Park and Needles Highway Tour

Exploring the natural wonders of South Dakota is a must-do for any adventurous traveler. This full-day tour from Rapid City takes you on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Custer State Park and the iconic Needles Highway. From wildlife sightings to stunning vistas, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking to learn about the region’s beauty, this tour offers a chance to discover the region’s hidden gems. Get ready to embark on an adventure that will leave you in awe of the region’s natural splendor.

Key Points

• Guided tour from Rapid City exploring Custer State Park’s iconic landmarks, including the Needles Highway and Mount Rushmore.
• Tour lasts approximately 7-8 hours and is priced from $237.82 per person, with a group size limited to 12 participants.
• Includes admission to Custer State Park, experienced tour guides, and bottled water, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Scenic drive showcases diverse wildlife, granite formations, and breathtaking vistas, with a lunch stop at a Custer State Park Resort dining room.
• Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended to fully enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife sightings during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour from Rapid City takes visitors through the scenic Custer State Park and the renowned Needles Highway, lasting approximately 7-8 hours.

Priced from $237.82 per person, the small-group tour is limited to 12 participants and led by a live English-speaking guide.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and payment can be made later.

The tour includes admission to Custer State Park, tour guides, and bottled water, but not food or refreshments.

Pickup is available from Rapid City hotels or Airbnbs, with an additional fee for surrounding cities.

Itinerary Highlights

Scenic drive through Custer State Park offers visitors the chance to witness diverse wildlife, including buffalo herds, antelope, deer, prairie dogs, and the famous begging burros.

Travelers will also marvel at the iconic landmarks along the Needles Highway, such as the Cathedral Spires and Iron Mountain Road.

Travelers marvel at the iconic landmarks along the Needles Highway, including the Cathedral Spires and Iron Mountain Road.

After exploring the slender granite rock formations of the Needles, guests can enjoy a comfort stop at the State Game Lodge area.

Lunch is provided at one of the Custer State Park Resort dining rooms, and the tour culminates with breathtaking views of Mount Rushmore.

Natural Attractions

Custer State Park is home to the Needles, a series of slender granite rock formations that have become a popular hiking and rock-climbing destination.

The Needles Highway, a 14-mile scenic drive, offers breathtaking views of these unique formations and the surrounding landscapes.

Visitors can enjoy:

1. Exploring the Needles, with their distinctive shape and height, offering a challenge for adventurous hikers and climbers.

2. Taking in the panoramic vistas along the Needles Highway, showcasing the park’s diverse terrain and wildlife.

3. Discovering the park’s other natural wonders, including the Cathedral Spires and the rugged Iron Mountain Road.

Inclusions

This tour provides a comprehensive package for visitors to Custer State Park. It includes free pickup from Rapid City hotels or Airbnbs, with an additional fee for surrounding cities.

Admission to Custer State Park is covered, along with experienced tour guides and cold bottled water. Gratuities for the guides are also included.

However, food and refreshments aren’t part of the package, so participants should bring their own snacks and drinks.

Participants are responsible for bringing their own snacks and drinks, as they are not included in the tour package.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so guests should ensure they can comfortably navigate the park’s natural terrain.

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Preparation and Recommendations

Although the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, guests can prepare for the experience by bringing comfortable shoes to navigate the park’s natural terrain.

The scenic drive and hikes along the Needles Highway require sturdy footwear. Guests are also encouraged to pack:

1. A hat to protect from the sun.

2. A camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

3. Snacks and water to stay energized during the 7-8 hour tour.

Proper preparation ensures guests can fully enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife sightings throughout Custer State Park and the Needles Highway.

Exploring Custer State Park

Spanning over 71,000 acres, Custer State Park is a natural wonderland brimming with diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Visitors can explore the iconic Needles Highway, a 14-mile scenic route winding through granite spires and offering breathtaking vistas.

Winding through granite spires, the iconic Needles Highway offers breathtaking vistas along its 14-mile scenic route.

The park is home to a thriving population of bison, as well as pronghorn antelope, deer, and the playful "begging burros." Guests can spot these majestic creatures roaming freely, often approaching vehicles for a snack.

From the Cathedral Spires to the Iron Mountain Road, Custer State Park showcases the region’s natural beauty and provides endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Navigating the Needles Highway

Winding through the heart of Custer State Park, the iconic Needles Highway offers visitors a captivating journey along 14 miles of picturesque landscapes.

This scenic byway winds past towering granite spires, steep switchbacks, and panoramic vistas that showcase the natural beauty of the region.

Travelers can expect to encounter:

1. Stunning rock formations, including the namesake "Needles" – slender, pointed granite structures that reach skyward.

2. Opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and the park’s famous "begging burros."

3. Breathtaking overlooks that provide sweeping views of the surrounding Black Hills.

The Needles Highway is a must-see attraction for any visit to Custer State Park.

Experiencing Mount Rushmore

After taking in the stunning vistas along the Needles Highway, visitors can turn their attention to one of the most iconic landmarks in the region – Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

At this awe-inspiring site, they’ll marvel at the massive carved faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

With its observation deck and hiking trails, Mount Rushmore offers numerous opportunities to capture breathtaking views and photos.

Guests can also explore the on-site museum, visitor center, and Sculptor’s Studio to learn more about the monument’s history and creation.

A visit to Mount Rushmore is a must-do on any Custer State Park itinerary.

Ask Away

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for the tour. The small group size is limited to 12 participants, making it suitable for families with children. However, the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is intended for human participants only, as the small group size and nature of the activities may not be suitable for bringing along pets. Service animals are permitted, however.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Lunch Options Available?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan lunch options are available at the Custer State Park Resort dining rooms. The tour includes lunch, so you can request a meat-free meal when booking the tour.

How Often Do the Tours Run During the Week?

The tours run daily throughout the week. Specific tour times may vary, so it’s recommended to check the schedule when booking to ensure availability on the desired date.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can’t be extended. The tour is offered as a set 7-8 hour package. However, visitors can customize their experience by adding on optional activities or extending their stay in the area on their own.

Final Words

This tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore Custer State Park’s natural wonders. Witness stunning landscapes, encounter wildlife, and marvel at iconic landmarks like the Needles Highway and Mount Rushmore. With expert guides and a small group size, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience amidst the park’s breathtaking beauty. Don’t miss this chance to learn about the untamed splendor of the Black Hills region.

You can check availability for your dates here: