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
Chapel in the HillsFreeSerene wooden stave church replica nestled in Rapid City's hills
The Outdoor CampusFreeExplore native South Dakota wildlife, scenic walking trails, and indoor exhibits.
Custer State ParkFreeExperience South Dakota's wilderness filled with bison herds and granite peaks.
Badlands National ParkFreeExplore dramatic rock formations and vast prairie landscapes in South Dakota
Lead-Deadwood Historic DistrictFreeExplore Gold Rush era history across the historic Black Hills district
Custer County MuseumFreeExplore local Black Hills history inside Custer's historic 1881 courthouse building.