AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

South Dakota
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
Peter Norbeck Visitor Center · Public Domain. Photo by Stephen Keegan · Photo credits
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

This byway will lead you on a delightful adventure as it winds its way around spiraling pig-tail shaped bridges, through six rock tunnels, among towering granite pinnacles and over pristine, pine-clad mountains. Highlights include Mt. Rushmore, Harney Peak, Sylvan Lake, the Needle s Eye and Cathedral Spires rock formations.

The experienceNational Scenic Byway
Start with this outlineChoose a section of the named byway
The Peter Norbeck Visitor Center blends into the natural landscape along the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway.
Peter Norbeck Visitor Center
Public Domain. Photo by Stephen Keegan · Photo credits
Framed by the thick evergreens of the Black Hills, Hwy. 87 follows a cliff face and even cuts through the mountain in places.
Tunnel on Hwy. 87 in South Dakota
Public Domain. Photo by Stephen Keegan · Photo credits

Before you drive

Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.