Driving the Black Hill

General Custer Expedition Campsite
The Campsite was base camp for the 1874 Custer Expedition that explored and mapped the Black Hills and discovered gold at this location.

Gordon Stockade
Gordon Stockade is a replica of the 1874 structure built by the first settlers in the Hills

Forest Ecology Wayside
This wayside conveys the natural history of Black Hills forest and fire.

Cathedral Spires
This spire is a spectacular rock formation in the 1.7 billion year old Harney Peak granite.

Needles Eye
The Needles Eye is just one of the unique erosion features known as the "needles."

Sylvan Lake
Sylvan Lake is the oldest reservoir in the Black Hills, constructed in 1898. Visitors can swim, fish, hike, camp and rock climb in the area.

Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
The preserve is home to deer, elk, mountain goats, big horn sheep and many bird species. Black Elk Wilderness is named for the Lakota spiritual leader.

Horsethief Lake
Horsethief Lake is a favorite spot for camping and fishing and for hikes into the back country.

Washington Profile
Washington's profile is a spectacular side view of the Washington's head on Mount Rushmore. Mountain goats frequent this area.

Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore was carved by Gutzon Borglum between 1927 and 1941, and stands as a memorial to the principles of our present form of government.

Pigtail Bridges
The bridges were designed by Peter Norbeck and built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's, span steep climbs in short distances.

Norbeck Overlook
The overlook has panoramic views of Harney Peak, outcrops of ancient granite and the 9800 acre Black Elk Wilderness.

Galena Fire Wayside
This wayside focuses on the 1988 wildfire that burned over 16,000 acres, and illustrates fire recovery.

Game Lodge
The Game Lodge was originally build as the Game Keeper's residence, and later served and the 1927 Coolidge summer white house.

Peter Norbeck Visitor Center
The Visitor Center offers information on Norbeck's life and the Black Hills history.