Iron Mountain Road: A 17-mile motorcycle ride through South Dakota’s Black Hills

Built in the 1930s, Iron Mountain Road—also known as US-16A—is still one of South Dakota’s most iconic routes. It connects East Custer with Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and its granite tunnels were designed to perfectly frame the monument as you drive through. That’s why seasoned riders often recommend taking it south to north—to capture the best views straight from the saddle.

Start at the junction of US-16A and SD-36, east of Custer State Park, and follow 16A all the way to Mount Rushmore. The ride may be only 17 miles long, but it’s packed with challenges—more than 300 curves, 14 switchbacks, three granite tunnels, and unique pigtail bridges.

This isn’t a ride you’ll want to rush. Take your time, soak in the views, and for a great half-way stop, visit the Iron Mountain Road Store & Visitor Center (open mid-May through November 1). Grab a coffee, a snack, and chat with the friendly folks behind the counter—they’re always happy to help travelers passing through.

Get a better feel for the route before you ride. This interactive map lays out the full stretch of Iron Mountain Road—including tunnels and stopping points—enjoy every ounce of this winding adventure.

Because of the elevation and twisty design, Iron Mountain Road is most popular during late spring through early fall, when the roads are typically clear and conditions mild. Snow can linger into late April—or arrive early in the fall—so check the forecast and road conditions before heading out.

Here's a look at the average temperatures in Custer, South Dakota.

This brief route is packed with features that can create an unforgettable ride. But those same features also call for a little extra caution. Keep these safety tips in mind:

Iron Mountain Road is just one of many remarkable rides and locations in the area. If you have some extra time, why not explore a little more?

If you’d like to get more riding in during your visit to the Black Hills, here are two more scenic motorcycle routes to try.

• Needles Highway
  Just south of Iron Mountain Road, the Needles Highway (SD-87) offers another bucket-list ride—complete with towering granite spires, narrow tunnels, and hairpin turns through the Black Hills National Forest.

• Wildlife Loop Road
  This 18-mile stretch of open grassland in Custer State Park is home to bison, pronghorn, deer, elk, coyotes, burros, and prairie dogs. Visit around dawn or dusk for the best wildlife sightings.

If you are looking for a place to stay, the Black Hills offer plenty of lodging—from simple campsites to full resort rooms. Two popular choices are Custer State Park Resort and Spokane Creek Cabins & Campground, both offering a range of accommodations.

Fuel up your bike as well as yourself. Here are a few restaurants to consider while on your adventure:

• Black Hills Burger and Pizza Co.: A rider favorite for specialty pizzas and burgers.

• Skogen Kitchen: An upscale eatery serving everything from oysters and salmon to buffalo short ribs and filet mignon.

• Ruby House Restaurant: A 1900s-style restaurant serving hearty American fare with Old West flair.

• Powder House Restaurant: A rustic spot serving buffalo, wild game, and classic diner favorites.

• Hayride & Chuck Wagon Cookout: A 2.5-hour dinner-and-entertainment experience under the South Dakota sky.

Depending on when you visit, here are some events and attractions to check out:

• Crazy Horse Memorial: This mountain sculpture is still in progress and set to be one of the largest in the world once completed. Visit the on-site museum to learn about American Indian culture and history.

• Jewel Cave National Monument: Tour one of the longest caves in the world, home to intricate geological formations and a surprising array of wildlife.

• Sturgis Motorcycle Rally: Since 1938, this legendary August gathering has drawn hundreds of thousands of riders from around the globe. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience for motorcycle enthusiasts.

• Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup: Watch skilled cowboys and cowgirls herd hundreds of bison in this unique South Dakota spectacle each September.

South Dakota has minimum motorcycle insurance requirements. Before you ride through the Black Hills, make sure you’re protected. Dairyland^®, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, helps you find coverage that fits your riding style—and you may even qualify for discounts that help lower costs. Contact us today to learn more.