Iron Mountain Road (US Highway 16A) is a famous 17-mile scenic highway connecting Custer State Park with Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. Built with wooden pigtail bridges and narrow rock tunnels, the road was intentionally engineered to frame spectacular views of the presidential monument. Visitors can stop at roadside pullouts along the route to take in panoramic Black Hills landscapes.
Expert notes
- Take your time to stop at viewpoints along the way.
- Use caution while driving, especially in areas with sharp turns.
- Watch for wildlife crossing the road.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
Features
- Accessible to vehicles
- Parking areas
- Paved road
- Picnic spots
- Scenic viewpoints
- Switchbacks
- Tunnel views
- Wildlife viewing
More things to do in Mount Rushmore
Wind Cave National ParkFreeExplore subterranean cave formations and vast rolling prairie landscapes above ground.
Chapel in the HillsFreeSerene wooden stave church replica nestled in Rapid City's hills
Bear Country USA$$Experience a unique drive-through wildlife park featuring North American animals.
Great Plains Zoo & Delbridge Museum of Natural HistoryFreeExplore diverse wildlife habitats and family activities in Sioux Falls
Reptile Gardens$$Discover a premier reptile zoo and botanical garden near Mount Rushmore
Black Hills National ForestFreeDiscover rugged granite peaks, pine forests, and scenic drives in South Dakota.