You won't be disappointed taking this road. Fantastic scenery. Driving north toward Mount Rushmore there are a few views of the monument which are wonderful. One lane tunnels through the mountain and a very winding picturesque road. Take your time. There are many switchbacks. Don't miss it.
We took numerous other reviewers' advice to travel this road toward Mt. Rushmore as to see the monument framed by the tunnel, and that view was definitely worth it, as were several other in-the-distance views of the carving. We got a number of good photos. The pigtail bridges were a new experience for us. We would definitely recommend taking this road to Mt. Rushmore.
Our kids just love travelling this road. There are tunnels that you can honk before entering as they are one lane only. You can also catch a great view of Mount Rushmore. The road can get a little scary at some points so be aware!
If you're in the area to do some riding, then this is then this is the ride for you. After you finish riding the Needles be certain to make this ride next. Bring your camera too. Great shot of the "heads" through a tunnel. Absolutely stunning!
My husband and I rode this on rented Harley we picked up in Aurora, CO - it was a recommendation from our friends, and a MUST if you're riding in the area!
It is only natural to take the Iron Mountain Road (part of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway) to reach Custer Park. Engineers were tasked to ensure that this roadway was one with visual appeal, sparing no elements of design. There are three tunnels, strategically located to provide splendid views of Mt. Rushmore and spiraling bridges that connect ridges, making this one of the most scenic byways in the state. Take a moment to check out the byway’s highest point along the route for a view of Harvey Peak at the Norbeck Overlook. This mountain is hailed as the greatest of the Black Hills domes reaching 7242 feet. Passing Lakota Lake, you will reach Custer State Park, home to the 18-mile long Wildlife Loop Road.
Don't be in a hurry as the road has a low speed limit! The scenery is great but what is best are the pigtail bridges, tunnels and switchbacks. It is worth doing!!!
We drove Iron Mountain Road away from Mt. Rushmore instead of to it as recommended. We still got one tunnel view of Mt Rushmore, and the pigtail bridges are really cool. Some of my family had been to Mt Rushmore before but hadn't taken this drive, and they were so glad to get to experience it this time. Well worth the time to drive it.
Take time to drive Iron Mountain Road. It is slow and curvy and beautiful. There are views of Mount Rushmore at a distance and it is just lovely. Take your time and do not rush like some people were doing. Enjoy the moment and the scenery. Exit through Custer State Park as I saw more buffalo there then on the wildlife loop.
We traveled this and it was the highlight of our Black Hills experience. I would highly recommend. Just make sure you drive slowly and have mirrors that can be turned in. The tunnels are tight. It's a wonderful time.