When the warm weather arrives in our state, it’s time to start thinking about some scenic drives. South Dakota’s Black Hills are truly spectacular, and one of the best drives to take there is the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway. This road is surrounded by beautiful scenery, but you’ll want to take it slow; one section of the byway is the windiest road in South Dakota.

The Iron Mountain Road portion of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway was built in the 1930s. Governor Peter Norbeck personally scouted out the 17-mile-long section called Iron Mountain Road.
Torlus/Tripadvisor
Engineers told Governor Norbeck that the road couldn’t be built, but he went ahead with the plans and it ended up being one of the most majestic feats of road engineering in U.S. history.
Custer State Park/Facebook
When you drive this road, you’ll be surrounded by some of the most picturesque scenery in South Dakota.
SLPlovesPE42/Tripadvisor
Can you see why Iron Mountain Road is considered to be the most beautiful road in South Dakota?
You won’t be bored on Iron Mountain Road. In addition to the gorgeous scenery, you’ll find 314 curves and 14 switchbacks, making it the road with the most curves in South Dakota. The road is fairly narrow, so you’ll want to pay close attention while you’re driving.
Custer State Park/Facebook

Related Stories

The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through South Dakota Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through South Dakota Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

 18 Best Hikes In South Dakota: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails To Visit In 2024

18 Best Hikes In South Dakota: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails To Visit In 2024

 This Speakeasy Hidden Underground In South Dakota Is Perfect For A Date Night

This Speakeasy Hidden Underground In South Dakota Is Perfect For A Date Night
The three South Dakota tunnels carved into the side of the mountain are white-knuckle moments for many drivers, especially those with RVs. The tunnels are narrow, but average about 13 feet wide, so even most RVs go through with no problem.
B C/flickr
Tunnels include the C.C. Gideon Tunnel (pictured here), the Doane Robinson Tunnel, and the Scovel Johnson Tunnel.
Mikez428/Tripadvisor
The tunnels are not only functional; they’re artistic, too. All three were specially placed to frame Mount Rushmore.
Thomas/flickr
Three pigtail bridges help the road climb higher and higher while avoiding cutting into the surrounding wilderness even more.
David Brossard/flickr
Plan on spending around an hour to travel this stretch of road. The speed limit is only 25 mph, and when you take all those curves, you’ll be slowing down more than that.
Custer State Park/Facebook

Address: 13329 US Highway 16A, Custer, SD 57730

What’s your favorite thing about driving on Iron Mountain Road?

While you’re in the mood to explore, check out this short hike that offers up some incredible views.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

The Windiest Road In South Dakota

Annie Sandmeier | May 21, 2019

What is the most dangerous road in South Dakota? With all of its twists, turns, and switchbacks, you would think that Iron Mountain Road is the most dangerous road in South Dakota, right? Come to find out, it is! While the stretch is undoubtedly beautiful, it is also extremely hazardous, so be sure to take your time when you embark on Iron Mountain.

What are the best scenic drives in South Dakota? Nearly every road, street, and dirt path in South Dakota is scenic in its own way, but there are still a few that stand out as being the most gorgeous in the state. Take, for instance, Loop Road, which winds through Badlands National Park and boasts some downright mesmerizing views of the area's many layered rock formations. In addition to Loop Road, there is Wildlife Loop State Scenic Byway in Custer State Park, which is chock-full of - you guessed it - different wildlife sightings! Not ready to park the car just yet? We hoped you'd say that, which is why we compiled this list of 6 Beautiful Byways In South Dakota Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive!

What are the best tunnels in South Dakota? While three of the best tunnels in South Dakota can be seen along Iron Mountain Road, there are a number of others you will want to check out, including the iconic Needles Eye and Hood Tunnels. (Needless to say, driving through tunnels has a set of hazards all of its own, so be sure to drive slowly and use caution whenever you visit the area!)

Related Articles