Black Hills Panoramic Road Itinerary
The Black Hills Panoramic Road road trip starts in the city of Custer, United States, and ends in Devils Tower, United States. Along this 220 km route, drivers will experience the beauty of the Black Hills and the surrounding countryside during all seasons. The trip passes through the historic towns of Deadwood and Aladdin, with plenty of attractions and activities to keep everyone entertained.
The best time of year to take this road trip is in the summer, when you can take advantage of the beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. The roads are in good condition, making it suitable for all types of drivers. The trip can easily be completed in a single day, with plenty of memories and experiences to be had. Despite the high quality of experience, this road trip can be managed with a moderate budget.
1
number of days
220 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Custer
Distance 220 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
66.0 kWh
Airports
RAP
[detailsContainer]
Custer, South Dakota is the perfect starting point for the Black Hills Panoramic Road. Located in the Black Hills National Forest, Custer is surrounded by stunning natural beauty with plenty of outdoor activities. From fishing and hiking to horseback riding and ATV tours, there is something for everyone.
For the history buffs, Custer is the home of the Crazy Horse Memorial and the site of the famous Battle of Little Big Horn. Tour the historic sites, visit the museums and learn about the Wild West. The views from Mt. Rushmore are breathtaking and not to be missed. The Custer State Park is the perfect place for a scenic drive, complete with buffalo grazing in the meadows.
For those flying in, the closest international airport is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip.
No matter what your interests, Custer is the perfect place to start your Black Hills Panoramic Road trip. Enjoy the stunning views, outdoor activities, and rich history of this amazing destination.
1
Custer
- Black Hills
- Deadwood
Distance 90 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: fast
27.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting 56-mile road trip from Custer in the United States to Deadwood, through the beautiful Black Hills. This journey will take you less than two hours, and is the perfect way to experience the sights and sounds of the region. Along the way, you'll be treated to picturesque landscapes, scenic roads, and a glimpse into the history of the area. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Crazy Horse Memorial, the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and the Black Hills National Forest. You'll also pass through the historic town of Keystone, which is home to the famous 1880 Train. As you drive along, you'll be able to take in the breathtaking views of the area, and maybe even spot some of its native wildlife. When you reach Deadwood, you'll have the opportunity to explore its many attractions, including the Adams Museum and the Broken Boot Gold Mine. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Deadwood - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
2
Deadwood
- Aladdin
Distance 70 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: fast
21.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an unforgettable experience as you set off from Deadwood and make your way to Aladdin. This 44-mile journey will take you less than an hour to complete, so be sure to take in the beautiful scenery along the way.
Start your adventure in Deadwood and explore the historic landmarks and attractions that make it such a unique place. Then, take a stroll down Main Street and get a glimpse of the city's Wild West heritage.
As you continue your journey, be sure to keep an eye out for the scenic views. The rolling hills, lush forests, and majestic mountains will make your drive even more enjoyable.
Finally, arrive in Aladdin and explore the small town that is full of history and charm. From the historic buildings to the small-town atmosphere, Aladdin is a great place to relax and take in the sights.
This is just one of the many stages of your road trip, so be sure to check the "Itinerary" section for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Aladdin - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Pixabay
❯
❮
3
Aladdin
- Devils Tower
Distance 60 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: modest
15.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Aladdin to Devils Tower! This 37mi journey will take you fewer than 1 hours, and you can expect to be wowed by some of the most stunning scenery in the area. From Aladdin, you’ll drive through the rolling hills of Wyoming, taking in the picturesque views of the countryside. Along the way, don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of Devils Tower National Monument. This impressive geological formation rises from the surrounding landscape, providing a breathtaking view. Once you arrive at Devils Tower, take a guided tour of the monument and learn about its history and significance. After exploring the monument, take some time to explore the nearby town of Hulett, where you can find plenty of unique shops and restaurants. No matter how you choose to spend your time, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Remember to keep an eye out for the scenic views along the way, and be sure to check the “Itinerary” section of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites.
Devils Tower - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - National Park Service
❯
❮
Devils Tower
[detailsContainer]
Devils Tower in the United States is a fascinating and awe-inspiring place to visit. Located in the north-eastern corner of Wyoming, this remarkable geological formation is the ending point of the Black Hills Panoramic Road, a scenic route that takes you through the Badlands of South Dakota, the Black Hills of Wyoming, and past several other notable attractions.
At Devils Tower, visitors can take in the 1,267-foot-tall monolith, which towers over the surrounding prairie. The tower is believed to have been formed some 50 million years ago, when molten rock cooled and hardened beneath the surface of the Earth. It's now a popular site for rock climbing, and climbers of all skill levels can find routes to suit them.
In addition to the tower, visitors to Devils Tower will find plenty of other attractions around the area. The nearby town of Hulett features several historic buildings, including the Hulett Museum, which showcases the area's early settlers. The nearby Keyhole State Park is a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and boating. And for those looking for an adrenaline rush, the nearby Aladdin Skyway offers a thrilling zip line experience.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), located in South Dakota. From there, it's an easy drive to Devils Tower and the Black Hills Panoramic Road. Whether you're looking to take in the views, go rock climbing, or just explore the area's attractions, Devils Tower is a great destination for a road trip.
Black Hills Panoramic Road at a glance
-
Start:
Custer
-
End:
Devils Tower
-
Distance:
220 km
-
Stay:
1 day
-
Getting there:
Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP)
-
When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Black Hills Panoramic Road Trip, a breathtaking 220 km journey from Custer, South Dakota, to Devils Tower in Wyoming. This route takes you through the heart of the Black Hills, a region of immense natural beauty and rich history. Along the way, explore charming historic towns, view abundant wildlife, and marvel at geological wonders.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Custer: The starting point of your adventure, Custer is the doorway to the magnificent Black Hills. Don't miss exploring Custer State Park, a wildlife reserve famous for its bison herds and stunning landscapes, and join the excitement during the annual Buffalo Roundup, a spectacle where cowboys and cowgirls gather the park's bison herd.
- Deadwood: Step into the Old West in Deadwood, a town that was once a hotbed of lawlessness and gambling, and now houses museums, casinos, and the graves of legendary figures such as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane in Mount Moriah Cemetery.
- Aladdin: With a population of just 15 people, Aladdin is a tiny hamlet where time appears to stand still. This hidden gem offers a glimpse of rural Americana and is home to the 125-year-old Aladdin General Store.
- Devils Tower: Rising majestically above the surrounding landscape, Devils Tower is an awe-inspiring geological feature considered sacred by many Native American tribes. It was proclaimed America's first national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906. The site is famous for its unique columnar basalt formations and is a paradise for photographers and hikers alike.
Best Time to Go:
The summer months are the best time to undertake this Road Trip. The weather is warm, the landscapes are lush, and the full range of attractions and outdoor activities are available, from hiking and wildlife watching to visiting local festivals.
Potential Risks:
The Black Hills region is generally safe for travel, but be cautious of wildlife on the Roads, particularly deer and bison, which can be a hazard, especially at dawn and dusk. Weather conditions can change quickly, so be prepared for sudden storms, and if traveling in winter, be mindful of snow and ice on the Roads.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- While the drive can be done in a single day, allocating more time allows for a deeper exploration of the area's attractions.
- This Road Trip is achievable with a reasonable budget, with a variety of accommodations and dining options to suit different preferences.
- The route offers a diverse array of attractions, from the geological splendor of the Needles Highway to the solemnity of Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the underground wonders of Jewel Cave National Monument.
A good choice for:
The Black Hills Panoramic Road Trip is an enchanting blend of natural beauty and historical allure, delivering an unforgettable experience for any traveler. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this journey through the Black Hills will be a standout feature of any summer holiday in the United States. With thoughtful planning and appropriate timing, you will create lasting memories of South Dakota's and Wyoming's iconic landscapes and stories.