The Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Riding in South Dakota
South Dakota offers some of the most breathtaking motorcycle routes in the United States, with diverse landscapes ranging from rolling prairies to rugged mountains. Before we dive into the heart of South Dakota’s motorcycle scene, it’s worth noting that neighboring states also offer incredible rides. To the west, Wyoming’s scenic byways wind through stunning national parks, while to the east, Minnesota’s lake country provides a refreshing change of pace. To the north, North Dakota’s badlands offer a unique riding experience, and to the south, Nebraska’s sandhills present a challenge for adventure seekers.
Top Motorcycle Roads in South Dakota
1. Needles Highway
- Location: Black Hills region
- Distance: 14 miles
- Key features: Granite towers, twisting bridges, mountain lakes, craggy peaks
- Difficulty level: Medium to difficult (A.B.A.T.E. Skill Level 5)
- Notable attractions: Cathedral Spires, granite tunnels
The Needles Highway is a motorcyclist’s dream, offering a thrilling ride through some of South Dakota’s most iconic scenery. As you navigate the tight turns and narrow tunnels, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Black Hills’ unique granite formations.
2. Spearfish Canyon
- Location: Black Hills region
- Distance: 19 miles
- Key features: Mountain canyon, flowing creek, hillside trees, waterfalls
- Difficulty level: Medium
- Best time to ride: Fall for spectacular foliage colors
Spearfish Canyon offers a more relaxed riding experience compared to some of the other Black Hills routes. The canyon’s towering limestone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant fall colors make it a visual feast for riders.
3. Iron Mountain Road
- Location: Black Hills region
- Distance: 17 miles
- Key features: Dramatic switchbacks, wooden “pigtail” bridges, tunnels with views of Mount Rushmore
- Difficulty level: Difficult (A.B.A.T.E. Skill Level 5)
- Notable attractions: Mount Rushmore
Iron Mountain Road is renowned for its engineering marvels and stunning vistas. The road’s famous “pigtail” bridges and strategically placed tunnels offer unforgettable glimpses of Mount Rushmore, making this route a must-ride for any motorcycle enthusiast visiting South Dakota.
4. Custer State Park Wildlife Loop
Location: Custer State Park
Distance: 18-40 miles (varies by source)
Key features: Rolling hills, pine trees, open grasslands, diverse wildlife
Notable attractions: Opportunities to see coyotes, prairie dogs, deer, elk, and bison
The Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park is a must-ride for nature enthusiasts. This scenic route offers riders the chance to observe South Dakota’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat, including the park’s famous herd of free-roaming bison.
5. Vanocker Canyon Road
- Location: Western South Dakota
- Distance: 35 miles (to Nemo)
- Key features: Twists, turns, mountain views, aspen and birch forests
- Difficulty level: Medium to difficult
- Notable attractions: Town of Nemo, Box Elder Creek
Vanocker Canyon Road is a hidden gem that offers a less crowded alternative to some of the more famous Black Hills routes. The road’s challenging curves and beautiful forest scenery make it a favorite among experienced riders.
Best Motorcycle Rides in South Dakota
1. Central Hills Loop
- Location: Western South Dakota
- Distance: 71 miles
- Key features: Twists, switchbacks, pigtail bridges, hills, valleys, elevation changes
- Notable attractions: Keystone, Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore
The Central Hills Loop combines some of the best roads in the Black Hills region, including portions of the Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road. This ride offers a comprehensive Black Hills experience, showcasing the area’s diverse landscapes and iconic attractions.
2. Native American Scenic Byway
- Location: Central South Dakota
- Distance: 350 miles
- Key features: Rugged terrain, diverse landscapes, Missouri River views
- Notable attractions: Yankton, Crow Creek, Cheyenne River, Standing Rock Sioux Tribe lands
- Best time to ride: Full day ride
The Native American Scenic Byway offers a unique cultural and historical perspective on South Dakota. This long-distance route takes riders through the heart of the state, passing through Native American reservations and offering stunning views of the Missouri River.
3.The Lasso (Sturgis to Devils Tower)
- Location: From Sturgis to Wyoming
- Key features: Scenic ride to an iconic natural landmark
- Notable attractions: Devils Tower National Monument
While technically ending in Wyoming, The Lasso is a popular ride that starts in Sturgis, South Dakota. This route takes riders on a scenic journey to the awe-inspiring Devils Tower, offering a perfect blend of South Dakota and Wyoming landscapes.
4. Jewel Cave Loop
- Location: Black Hills region, briefly into Wyoming
- Distance: 176 miles
- Difficulty level: Moderate to medium
- Notable attractions: Crazy Horse Memorial, Jewel Cave National Monument
The Jewel Cave Loop is a longer ride that showcases the diversity of the Black Hills region. This route takes riders past the impressive Crazy Horse Memorial and to the entrance of Jewel Cave National Monument, one of the longest cave systems in the world.
Motorcycle Laws in South Dakota
Before hitting the open road in South Dakota, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the state’s motorcycle laws. While we won’t go into detail here, you can find comprehensive information about motorcycle laws in South Dakota to ensure a safe and legal riding experience.
South Dakota’s motorcycle scene is truly a rider’s paradise, offering everything from challenging mountain roads to serene prairie highways. As you plan your South Dakota motorcycle adventure, consider extending your trip to explore the equally impressive rides in neighboring states. The winding roads of Montana to the northwest offer alpine vistas and glacier-carved valleys, while Iowa’s rolling hills to the southeast provide a more relaxed riding experience through picturesque farmland. Wherever your two-wheeled journey takes you, the heartland of America is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return for more.
Motorcycle Rides in the US by States
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Vishwanath Mathpati
I am Vishwanath Mathpati, a full-time Blogger and Motorcyclist from Bidar, Karnataka. I love writing about my Motorcycles Stories and Riding Gears on this blog.
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