Some of the best Black Hills experiences happen along the way. From winding canyon roads and granite tunnels to sweeping prairie, waterfalls and iconic landmarks, these scenic routes showcase some of the most beautiful riding and driving in the region. Before heading out, explore the Black Hills Motorcycle Map for additional routes, maps and riding information: https://www.blackhillsbadlands.com/plan/maps/
Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway
Route: Spearfish to Cheyenne Crossing
Distance: Approximately 19 miles
Description: Follow US Highway 14A through towering limestone cliffs alongside Spearfish Creek, with easy stops for Bridal Veil Falls, Spearfish Falls and Roughlock Falls. One of the most beautiful and accessible scenic drives in the Northern Black Hills.
More Information: https://visitspearfish.com/things-to-do/scenic-drives
Boulder Canyon Scenic Drive
Route: Deadwood to Sturgis
Distance: Approximately 12 miles
Description: A winding canyon route connecting Historic Deadwood and Sturgis along US Highway 14A, surrounded by forested hills and rocky canyon scenery. It also makes an excellent connection for a larger Northern Hills riding loop.
Vanocker Canyon & Nemo Road
Route: Sturgis to Nemo and the Central Black Hills
Distance: Approximately 17 miles through Vanocker Canyon
Description: A favorite motorcycle route featuring sweeping curves, pine-covered hills and beautiful canyon scenery between Sturgis and Nemo. Continue along Nemo Road for a longer ride through the Central Black Hills.
More Information: https://www.ridesafesd.com/maps-popular-rides
The Canyon Ride
Route: Sturgis → Boulder Canyon → Spearfish Canyon → Cheyenne Crossing → Lead/Deadwood → Nemo → Vanocker Canyon → Sturgis
Distance: Approximately 100 miles
Description: One of the best all-around motorcycle loops in the Northern Black Hills, combining Boulder Canyon, Spearfish Canyon and Vanocker Canyon into one scenic ride. This route is especially popular during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and makes an excellent full Northern Hills loop.
Route & Map: https://sturgis.com/rides/spearfish-boulder-vanocker-canyons/
Needles Highway
Route: SD Highway 87 through Custer State Park
Distance: Approximately 14 miles
Description: One of the Black Hills' most iconic roads, winding between towering granite spires and through narrow rock tunnels near Sylvan Lake and the Needle's Eye. Allow plenty of time for overlooks, photographs and slower traffic.
More Information: https://gfp.sd.gov/pages/csp-scenic-drives/
Iron Mountain Road
Route: Mount Rushmore area to Custer State Park
Distance: Approximately 17 miles
Description: Famous for its pigtail bridges, sweeping curves and three rock tunnels strategically positioned to frame Mount Rushmore in the distance. Iron Mountain Road is one of the signature motorcycle and scenic-driving experiences in the Black Hills.
More Information: https://gfp.sd.gov/pages/csp-scenic-drives/
Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway
Route: Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and the Central Black Hills
Distance: Approximately 70 miles
Description: One of the Black Hills' premier scenic loops, connecting Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road and other spectacular stretches of roadway near Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park. Plan several hours to enjoy the overlooks, tunnels and scenic stops along the way.
More Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/media/63273
Wildlife Loop Road
Location: Custer State Park
Distance: Approximately 18 miles
Description: A slower-paced scenic route through open prairie and rolling hills where bison, pronghorn, deer, prairie dogs and the park's famous burros are frequently seen. Wildlife can be on or near the roadway, so drive carefully and never approach or feed wild animals.
More Information: https://gfp.sd.gov/pages/csp-scenic-drives/
Devils Tower Ride
Route: Northern Black Hills → Hulett → Devils Tower, Wyoming
Description: A classic Black Hills day ride that carries riders across the Wyoming countryside to Devils Tower National Monument. The route is especially convenient for guests staying in the Northern Hills and is a longtime favorite during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
More Information: https://www.nps.gov/deto/
Badlands Loop Scenic Byway
Route: SD Highway 240 through Badlands National Park
Distance: Approximately 31 miles through Badlands National Park
Description: Trade the pine-covered Black Hills for colorful buttes, towering pinnacles and wide-open prairie on this spectacular scenic road through Badlands National Park. Numerous overlooks and short stops make it an excellent half- or full-day excursion from the Black Hills.
More Information: https://www.nps.gov/badl/planyourvisit/scenic-drives.htm
PLAN YOUR RIDE
Road conditions, construction, seasonal closures and weather can affect Black Hills routes throughout the year. Mountain roads may include sharp curves, steep grades, narrow tunnels, wildlife and changing conditions, so always check current road information before heading out.
Black Hills Motorcycle Maps & Riding Information: https://www.blackhillsbadlands.com/plan/maps/
South Dakota Road Conditions: https://www.sd511.org/