In short
- Early morning and late evening are the best times to go.
- Animals are most active during these cooler hours.
- The loop takes 1.5 to 2 hours to drive.
In this article
- What time of day is best to see animals on the Wildlife Loop?
- Does the time of year affect wildlife viewing?
- How long does it take to drive the Wildlife Loop?
- What animals are active on the Custer Wildlife Loop Road?
- What are the rules for viewing wildlife at dawn or dusk?
- Should I book a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour for better viewing?
The Wildlife Loop Road is an 18-mile route in Custer State Park. You will need 1.5 to 2 hours to complete it. Planning your trip around sunrise or sunset increases your chances of seeing the park's 1,350 bison moving and grazing.
What time of day is best to see animals on the Wildlife Loop?
Early morning and late evening are the absolute best times for wildlife viewing.
Animals are most active during the cooler hours of the day. If you drive the loop around sunrise or just before sunset, you have a higher chance of seeing bison herds and elk moving across the open grasslands. Midday heat often drives animals into the shade.
Does the time of year affect wildlife viewing?
Yes, though the loop is open to vehicles year-round.
May through September provide the best weather and full facility access. September is peak season because of the annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup. Winter viewing is possible, but you must drive carefully due to winter road conditions.
How long does it take to drive the Wildlife Loop?
Self-driving the loop typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
This drive time depends heavily on wildlife traffic. Bison frequently cross or stand in the road, creating inevitable traffic jams. You must drive slowly, with a maximum speed limit of 25 mph. Be prepared to stop frequently.
What animals are active on the Custer Wildlife Loop Road?
You can expect to see bison, burros, pronghorns, elk, and prairie dogs.
The park is home to a free-roaming herd of about 1,350 American Bison. You will also find several large colonies of black-tailed prairie dogs. The famous feral begging burros frequently approach cars looking for snacks.
What are the rules for viewing wildlife at dawn or dusk?
You must maintain a distance of at least 100 yards from large animals at all times.
Stay in your vehicle when bison or elk are nearby. Bison are dangerously fast. Never approach them on foot. When you stop to watch animals, pull completely off the road to the right of the white line. This prevents you from blocking traffic.
Should I book a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour for better viewing?
A guided Jeep tour offers access to backcountry roads where bison frequently graze.
If you want to go off-road, these 1.5 to 2-hour guided tours depart from the State Game Lodge. They take you on private dirt and gravel paths inaccessible to public vehicles. These tours cost extra and require booking via Custer State Park Resort.
Questions travellers ask
Where does the Wildlife Loop start and end?
You can enter the 18-mile semi-circle route via the East Entrance on US Hwy 16A or the West/Blue Bell Entrance.
How much does it cost to enter Custer State Park?
South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks charges $20 per vehicle for a Temporary Entrance License. This pass is valid for 1 to 7 days.
Are dogs allowed in Custer State Park?
Yes, pets are allowed. They must remain on a leash no longer than 10 feet. Dogs are not permitted inside park buildings.
