Scenic Needles Highway - A Black Hills Motorcycle Adventure | S02E10

Welcome to the next episode of my solo motorcycle adventure around America! In this video, I’m taking you along one of the most iconic and breathtaking roads in the United States—the Needles Highway in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Known for its towering granite spires, narrow tunnels, and jaw-dropping vistas, this 14-mile stretch of SD Highway 87 is a must-ride for any motorcyclist or road trip enthusiast. Join me as I explore the beauty, history, and thrills of this legendary curve carving route along the Needles Highway.

The Needles Highway is more than just a road—it’s an experience. Built in the early 20th century, this engineering marvel was designed to showcase the natural beauty of the Black Hills. Its name comes from the needle-like granite formations that pierce the skyline, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape. For motorcyclists, it’s a dream ride, combining tight curves, elevation changes, and stunning scenery.

The ride begins near Sylvan Lake, a serene alpine lake surrounded by forest and rock formations. From there, the road winds its way through dense pine forests, gradually revealing the first glimpses of the granite spires that make this highway so famous. As I approached the first set of curves, I could feel the excitement building. The road was smooth, the scenery was stunning, and the sense of freedom was palpable.

One of the highlights of the Needles Highway is the famous Needles Eye Tunnel. Carved directly through a massive granite formation, this tunnel is incredibly narrow—just 8 feet 4 inches wide and 11 feet 3 inches tall. For motorcyclists, navigating this tunnel is a rite of passage.

The Needles Highway is named for its towering granite spires, and they truly are the stars of the show. These ancient rock formations, shaped by millions of years of erosion, rise dramatically from the forest floor, creating a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. I stopped at several pull-offs to take in the views and snap some photos.

TIPS FOR RIDING THE NEEDLES HIGHWAY:

1. If you’re planning to ride the Needles Highway, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

2. Take Your Time: The speed limit is low for a reason. This road is all about the journey, not the destination. Slow down, enjoy the scenery, and take plenty of breaks.

3. Watch for Traffic: The road can get busy, especially during peak tourist season. Be prepared to share the road with cars, RVs, and cyclists.

4. Check the Weather: The Black Hills are known for sudden weather changes. Dress in layers and be prepared for rain or cooler temperatures.

5. Fuel Up: There are no gas stations along the Needles Highway, so make sure your tank is full before you start.

6. Respect the Environment: The Black Hills are a sacred place for many Native American tribes. Be respectful of the land and leave no trace.

VIDEO MOMENTS:

00:00 Intro
00:21 Cabin at Three Forks
00:59 About Last Night
01:57 Road to Needles Highway
02:37 Hood Tunnel
03:08 Needles Highway Begins
04:26 Needles Eye Tunnel
05:39 Entering the Needles Eye
07:01 Majestic Scenery
09:28 Near Accident!
09:53 Green Trees, Black Hills
10:10 Iron Creek Tunnel
10:38 Snow in September!
10:50 Please Like & Subscribe!

THANKS FOR WATCHING!

If you enjoyed this video, please give it a thumbs up, share it with your friends, and subscribe to my channel for more motorcycle adventures across America. Let me know in the comments if you’ve ridden the Needles Highway or if it’s on your bucket list. Until next time, keep exploring and ride safe!

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