Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park
The 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road takes visitors through the open grasslands and
pine-speckled hills that much of the park’s wildlife calls home. Visitors will
often see bison, pronghorn, whitetail and mule deer, elk, coyotes, burros,
prairie dogs, eagles, hawks and a variety of other birds. The morning and
evening hours are the best times to view the wildlife, as during that time the
animals are most active. On the southeast part of the loop, the Wildlife Station
Visitor Center gives visitors shade and information on wildlife and outdoor
habitats.
Winding drives throughout the park are enjoyed at a slower pace. When making plans, please allow ample time to travel at a safe speed – generally 25 miles-per-hour or slower.
Expect travel time of about 45 minutes to enjoy the Wildlife Loop.Guided Wildlife Loop Caravan
Custer State Park is loaded with nature. Grab your binoculars and experience this beauty and wildlife on a guided tour of the park’s Wildlife Loop Road, located in the southern portion of the park. During the caravan, participants may observe bison, pronghorns, elk, whitetail deer, mule deer, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs and coyotes. The road is also famous for its wide variety of colorful wildflowers and prairie grasses. You can be guided along this scenic route with a naturalist daily at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. from Memorial Day to mid-August.
Photo courtesy South Dakota Tourism.
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