Highway 2
U.S. Highway 16A in South Dakota, often called the Iron Mountain Road, is a scenic 37-mile route through the Black Hills that connects Custer to Keystone near Mount Rushmore.
It was designed in the 1930s by Governor Peter Norbeck to offer tourists a slow, picturesque drive showcasing the natural beauty and landmarks of the area. The road is famous for its numerous curves, 14 switchbacks, three tunnels, and unique "pigtail" bridges where the road loops over itself, allowing for rapid elevation gain while minimizing environmental impact.
The tunnels are especially notable for framing views of Mount Rushmore's faces like picture frames. The highway passes through Custer State Park, the Norbeck Wildlife Management Area, and Black Elk Wilderness, offering access to attractions such as the State Game Lodge and scenic overlooks. U.S. 16A is the only road allowing passage through Custer State Park without a park entrance fee if you do not stop.
The road is not maintained during winter, and it is known for its challenging and winding drive, making it a popular route for travelers seeking both natural beauty and engineering marvels amidst the Black Hills. This route is part of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, honoring the governor’s efforts in preserving and showcasing the Black Hills.
| Length | 59.5 km |
| Highway System | US Numbered Highways |
| East End | US 16 near Keystone |
| Address | South Dakota, USA |
U.S. 16A is located in South Dakota, United States.
U.S. 16A is situated in the state of South Dakota.
The address of U.S. 16A is South Dakota, USA.
Yes, U.S. 16A is family-friendly and attracts visitors of all age groups.
Visitors usually spend a few hours to a full day exploring U.S. 16A.
Yes, there are several hotels and accommodations near U.S. 16A in South Dakota.
No, USAvora.com is an informational travel website designed to help users explore famous places and destinations across the United States. We do not offer hotel, flight, or tour bookings, but our content helps travelers plan their trips more effectively.
USAvora.com offers detailed information about popular places in the USA, including landmarks, attractions, parks, cities, and tourist destinations. Our content covers location details, significance, travel tips, and things to explore nearby.
Yes. We provide destination guides and place-based insights such as must-visit attractions, best times to visit, and nearby points of interest to help travelers build their own itineraries.
We regularly update our content to keep it accurate and relevant. However, for official timings, entry fees, or local regulations, we recommend checking government or official destination websites.
Yes, USAvora.com features places from all states in the United States, including major tourist attractions as well as lesser-known destinations worth exploring.
Currently, our content is curated by our in-house research team. However, if you notice any inaccuracies or have valuable suggestions, you’re welcome to contact us through our website.
You can reach us through the Contact Us page on USAvora.com. For general inquiries or feedback, you can also email us at contact@usavora.com
Absolutely! We encourage users to share our content on social media platforms. You can use the built-in sharing options or link directly to our pages.
Yes, USAvora.com is completely free to access. Users can browse destinations, explore places, and read travel-related content without any subscription.
Explore the USA's most iconic attractions, from historic landmarks to breathtaking natural wonders.
Leave a comment