Wildlife Loop

The Wildlife Loop, at 18 miles, is the longest of the three byways in Custer State Park [1]. On the north side of the park, the Wildlife Loop begins just east of the State Game Lodge [2] off of Hwy 16A. The southwestern entrance to the Loop is located off of Highway 87 just about one mile south of the Blue Bell Lodge area.

It doesn’t matter which end of the loop you start with—what matters is the time of day. Wildlife is most active and visible early in the morning or near dusk.

Pronghorn, bison, whitetail deer, mule deer, and prairie dogs are common along the route. On lucky occasions, the elusive elk herd will make an appearance, or a coyote will slink into the underbrush. The Wildlife Loop runs through the rolling prairie regions of the park, so visibility is exceptionally good.

Bring carrots on this drive. One of Custer State Park’s two herds of burros is usually found somewhere along this route. While the burros are not wild animals, these burros have lived in the wild for decades. They are used to visitors and are generally friendly, but keep an eye out for overly aggressive behavior and watch your children. In their enthusiasm to grab carrots, especially early in the spring and summer when visitors come by less frequently, burros could knock over a child.

There are several turnouts along the route to allow for photographs and wildlife viewing. Expect “traffic jams” when bison herds decide to cross the road. Keep in mind that bison are wild, dangerous animals that are quite capable of turning on a dime and of reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour in a matter of seconds. You cannot outrun them if they choose to charge, so keep your distance.