Situated among pointed geological formations that resemble needles and spires, Needles Eye Tunnel is the main attraction along Needles Highway within Custer State Park. Look for this 10 m (35 ft) tall granite formation with a slit in it, created through centuries of erosion of soft sediment by wind, rain, thawing, and freezing. The rock's shape attracts photographers, and together with the other rock formations nearby, it has become a popular rock climbing spot. If you are a climber, do so cautiously; many accidents have occurred on this rock. Put Needles Eye Tunnel at the forefront of your travel plans using our Custer day trip planning website.
Needles Eye Tunnel reviews
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This is the "prize"! When going on this ride and then finally coming to this spot is the best. This area is so beautiful, but many people go right by it and never see it. We worth the time and...
This is the "prize"! When going on this ride and then finally coming to this spot is the best. This area is so beautiful, but many people go right by it and never see it. We worth the time and... more »
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If you don't take this drive while in Custer shame on you it's awesome. The views and the winding mountain roads are out of this world.
If you don't take this drive while in Custer shame on you it's awesome. The views and the winding mountain roads are out of this world. more »
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Words can not describe just how amazing the Needles Highway is. This thrilling road runs through Custer State Park, but the entry fee is worth every penny. I entered the Needles Highway off U. S. Highway 385 just a few miles from the Crazy Horse Memorial. Soon after entering the park the amazing views began. Do not do this drive unless you have plenty of time because you will be constantly stopping for photos and to take in the wonderful views. Sylvan Lake great but just a prelude to what is to come as you wind your way through the rocky landscape toward Cathedral Spires. Along the way you will move slowly through the Needles Eye Tunnel which is simple unbelievable. The road handles traffic in both directions but the tunnel is only one lane, so there may be a considerable wait during peak tourist season. The tunnel is a little over 8-feet wide and about 12-feet tall so it is a tight fit, but I did witness a full size tour bus make it through with inches to spare. I traveled the Needles Highway all the way through from Highway 385 to U. S. Highway 16-A. Even Though it is only distance of about 20 or 25 miles the journey took me a little over two hours as I was treated to spectacular beauty at every turn and kept stopping for pictures. Along the way, I saw a variety of wildlife including deer, a bear and buffalo. This is one of the most amazing drives in the country and should be done when you have plenty of time.
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Beautiful and scenic! The scenery is just breathtaking. Loved our time exploring this national park! Definitely be sure to give yourself bample time for exploring, we only drove through and stopped at several of the overlooks.
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