Iron Mountain Road
FreeDrive a famous Black Hills scenic highway framing Mount Rushmore
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
The Outdoor CampusFreeExplore native South Dakota wildlife, scenic walking trails, and indoor exhibits.
Mount Rushmore National MemorialFreeIconic national monument featuring four carved American presidential portraits
Roughlock Falls State Nature AreaFreeExplore cascading waterfalls and scenic boardwalk trails in Spearfish Canyon
Lead-Deadwood Historic DistrictFreeExplore Gold Rush era history across the historic Black Hills district
Great Plains Zoo & Delbridge Museum of Natural HistoryFreeExplore diverse wildlife habitats and family activities in Sioux Falls
Bear Country USA$$Experience a unique drive-through wildlife park featuring North American animals.