CusterCity.com
The Iron Mountain Road curving under a wooden pigtail bridge in the Black Hills

Getting there

Getting to Custer, and getting around

Custer is a road-trip destination. Fly into Rapid City, about an hour and a quarter away, or drive in on the Interstate. Once you are here, you will want a car.

By air

Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) is the closest airport, about an hour and a quarter from Custer by car. It has direct flights from several hub airports, with more routes in summer. Rental cars are available at the terminal. Some travellers fly into Denver for more choice of flights and drive about six hours north.

By car

Driving times from Custer
ToDistanceTime
Crazy Horse MemorialAbout 5 miles10 minutes
Jewel CaveAbout 13 miles20 minutes
Wind Cave visitor centerAbout 20 miles30 minutes
Mount RushmoreAbout 30 miles45 minutes to an hour
Rapid CityAbout 45 milesAbout 50 minutes
DeadwoodAbout 70 milesAbout 1.5 hours
Badlands National ParkAbout 120 milesAbout 2 hours

Interstate 90 crosses South Dakota through Rapid City. From there, US Highway 16 and US 16/385 lead south through the hills to Custer.

Scenic roads

The Needles Highway, the Iron Mountain Road and the Wildlife Loop make up the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway. They are narrow and slow, with tight curves and low tunnels, and the Needles Highway closes in winter. Read our guide to Black Hills scenic drives.

Getting around

  • By car: the only practical way to explore on your own. Fill up in town, as fuel stations are few in the parks.
  • By tour: guided tours start in Rapid City, Keystone and Custer.
  • By bike: the George S. Mickelson Trail, a former railroad line, passes through Custer and Hill City.
  • By motorcycle: the Black Hills are famous for riding, but take care on the tight curves.
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Getting there FAQ

Which airport is closest to Custer?

Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), about an hour and a quarter by car. It has direct flights from several hub airports, with more routes in summer.

Can I drive from Denver?

Yes. The drive from Denver to Custer takes about six hours, mostly through Wyoming. Some travellers fly into Denver for cheaper fares and make a road trip of it.

Is there public transport to Custer?

No. You will need a car, or guided tours that start in Rapid City or Keystone. Rental cars are available at Rapid City airport.

Are the roads open in winter?

Main highways are open all year, but the Needles Highway closes in winter and other scenic roads can close after snow. Check road conditions before you set off.