Needles Eye Tunnel, Custer

This was a great drive! I drove through the tunnel a few times with a GMC Suburban and didn't have any difficulties. Plenty of wildlife nearby. We saw goats, chipmunks and even groundhogs.

This was such a great drive. We took our time and enjoyed the views. From Mt Rushmore headed to Custer State Park, what a cool area. PICURESQUE!!! Worth the time and energy to drive the edge to see the views, the tunnels and the beautiful area. Take the time and just do it. Bring items for a picnic and stop and take in the nature. You will NOT retreat this.

You must take the Route 87 Toll Road, it will be the best toll you'll ever pay. You'll enjoy incredible beauty, a winding twisting road, switchback and an unexpected circular exit from a tunnel. Included are the fantastic rock formations where nature decided to be creative in forming the star of the road 'Needles' formations. Then you're treated to man's attempt duplicate natures creativity by carving tunnels barely wide enough for a vehicle, you just about scrape your door handles off (compacts recommended .... LOL). An unexpected surprise is a viewing area, where you can see an uninterrupted view of Mt. Rushmore across the valley. We enjoy the ride it is certainly worth the trip. It ends with a picnic/rest area with a small stream and a shallow cave to enjoy as well. Enjoy.

Wow, what a spectacular area ... Don't miss the awesome mountain views of the needles, the needles eye tunnel and other tunnels on the scenic byway. We were also fortunate to see a tour bus attempting to pass through the tunnel driven by a student driver. Great fun for passengers and onlookers too.

Really one of the most beautiful routes to travel through the Black Hills - extraordinary geological formations!