• Custer State Park Visitor Center - The journey begins at the State Game Lodge, where the history of its role as the Summer White House for Presidents Coolidge and Eisenhower is explored.

Next, a visit to the Custer State Park Visitor Center offers a chance to learn about the iconic prairie species, particularly the bison, through various displays.

Another stop is made along the Wildlife Loop Road at the Buffalo Corrals. The newly established Custer State Park Bison Center provides a comprehensive bison experience along the scenic drive through the southern prairie of the 71,000-acre park.

• Wildlife Loop Road - This 18-mile tour traverses open grasslands and pine-dotted hills, home to much of Custer State Park’s wildlife. Visitors should watch for bison, pronghorn, whitetail and mule deer, elk, coyotes, burros, prairie dogs, eagles, hawks, and a variety of birds rarely seen together. The road is surrounded by a vibrant array of wildflowers and prairie grasses, offering a picturesque drive with ever-changing landscapes.

• Mount Coolidge Fire Lookout Tower - Constructed from local stone, the Mt Coolidge Fire Tower sits atop a 6,023-foot peak en route to Blue Bell Lodge and continues to serve as a fire lookout and dispatch center. As the highest point in central Custer State Park, it provides stunning 360-degree views. On clear days, the Badlands can be seen nearly 60 miles to the east, with Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse to the north and the Wildlife Loop Road to the south.

• Stockade Lake - As the largest lake in Custer State Park, Stockade Lake is nestled between Mt Coolidge Lookout and the Needles Highway. It offers a tranquil and scenic setting, perfect for a picnic lunch.

• Needle Eye Tunnel - The Needles Highway is a breathtaking drive through pine and spruce forests, meadows bordered by birch and aspen, and rugged granite mountains.

The highway’s name is derived from the needle-like granite formations that appear to pierce the horizon.

The road was meticulously planned by former South Dakota Governor Peter Norbeck, who charted the entire route on foot and horseback. Construction was completed in 1922.

Needles Eye Tunnel is a distinctive rock formation, named for the opening created by natural elements. It is the most popular tunnel in the park.

• Sylvan Lake - Sylvan Lake is the most favored among the many lakes in the park. It was formed in 1891 when Theodore Reder constructed a dam across Sunday Gulch Creek.

Surrounded by large granite spires and towering pines, it offers a unique alpine atmosphere. It also hosts an average of four weddings per week during the summer season.

• Iron Mountain Road - Iron Mountain Road is a distinctive route designed to highlight the Black Hills and Mt Rushmore. Renowned for its “pigtail” bridges, Iron Mountain Road redefined road design with 314 curves, numerous one-lane tunnels, and the iconic “pigtail” bridges.

• Special Treats for feeding Begging Burros
• Bottled water
• Snacks
• All fees and/or taxes

Two New Locations - Safe Parking
Custer - 615 Washington St. Departure at 8:00 am
Keystone - 519 1st St. Departure at 8:30 am

Custer State Park is one of the largest state parks in the country, covering 71,000 acres in the Black Hills. It is a haven for abundant wildlife and thrilling adventures.

Open-Top-Tours is the exclusive provider of 6-hour Jeep Bison Safaris throughout the entire park. This includes the rarely visited Mt. Coolidge Fire Lookout, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Hills from an elevation of 6,020 feet.

Tours are conducted in our specially modified Jeep Gladiators and Wranglers, accommodating between 2 to 14 passengers, ensuring excellent panoramic views. These vehicles are ideal for exploring the backcountry roads in search of roaming bison and other wildlife.

Our guides are professional, knowledgeable, and entertaining, making the tour a delightful experience. They will share insights on local history, wildlife, and are ready to answer any questions.

Included: fees, bottled water, and snacks.

Tours depart from Rapid City at 8:00 am, Custer at 8:00 am, and Keystone at 8:30 am. There are plenty of restroom stops and additional opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.

• Layered clothing, jacket, sun screen, sunglasses and a hat are recommended
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• All-Season Tours Available

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.