Granite spires towered over the thick forest of fir trees as I approached Needles Highway.  Also known as South Dakota Highway 87, this scenic byway lies within Custer Park, just outside of Rapid City.  This road, winding through some of the most unique formations in the United States, is a part of the park’s Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway.  I prepared myself for amazing views, interesting geological features and a crazy drive of switchbacks over the next 14 miles.

As the night began to fall, I had a few miles until I reached The Needle, but the abstract formations continued to fascinate me and I couldn’t resist pulling over for a moment to photograph them.  I enjoyed finding images in the interesting rocks such as animal figures or even human likenesses.

Several tunnels, hairpin turns and tight spaces make up the scenic course that was completed in 1922.  As the night began to fall, I had only a few miles until I reached The Needle, but I was distracted by the peculiar formations which continued to fascinate me, peering between the pines.

I noticed the highway to beautiful Sylvan Lake and several trails before reaching the Needle’s Eye.  At one moment, I wondered if my car would fit between the large boulders flanking the highway.  According to the map, the Needle should appear at any moment and as the sky was darkening, I was concerned there was a chance that I may not be able to see it.

I finally made it to the Eye of the Needle and was so saddened that it was too difficult to see in the darkness. I could not have driven all of this way without a clear view of the Needle’s Eye, so I decided to make the trip back up the byway the next morning.  Without a doubt, it was one of the most fascinating attractions in the park.  I wished I would have set aside some time to enjoy an afternoon of rock climbing or hiking the Cathedral Spires, but it was on to my next stop for some well-awaited animal viewing at Custer State Park.

Have you taken The Needles Highway?  What did you think about the drive?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many thanks for reading my post and Happy Travels!

For more information about the Needles Highway, check out South Dakota’s state  park website atwww.gfp.sd.gov.

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