Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Custer, South Dakota to Mancos, Colorado

Custer, South Dakota and Mancos, Colorado are both remarkable destinations with rich histories, stunning landscapes, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. A road trip between these two towns covers approximately 532 miles and takes around 9 hours to drive without factoring in stops. The trip will take you through scenic landscapes as you make your way from the Black Hills region through the Great Plains and into the Rocky Mountains. The halfway point of the trip lies near Morrison, CO, where travelers can take a break and explore the charming town. There are several remarkable attractions and activities worth exploring on this road trip, and here are some of the highlights.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a must for anyone passing through South Dakota. The memorial features the enormous sculptures of four American presidents, carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore. In addition to marveling at the iconic sculptures, visitors can explore the visitor center, hike the Presidential Trail, and learn about the history and significance of this iconic landmark.

Interesting Fact: It took 14 years and over 400 workers to complete the Mount Rushmore sculptures.

Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park offers a stunning landscape of rugged rock formations, canyons, and prairies that stretch for miles. Travelers can drive along the Badlands Loop Road to take in the breathtaking views, hike through picturesque trails, and experience the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this starkly beautiful environment.

Interesting Fact: Fossils of ancient mammals such as the rhinoceros and sabertooth cat have been discovered in Badlands National Park.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, located in western Colorado, is a hidden gem that offers awe-inspiring views of the steep and narrow canyon carved by the Gunnison River. Visitors can marvel at the sheer rock walls that drop more than 2,700 feet to the river below, hike along the rim, go fishing, or partake in ranger-led programs to learn more about the unique geology and ecology of the canyon.

Interesting Fact: The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of the steepest canyons in North America, with an average depth of around 2,000 feet.

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the archaeological heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Visitors can explore ancient cliff dwellings and learn about the fascinating history of the people who lived in this area over 700 years ago. The park offers guided tours, hiking trails, and the opportunity to witness the remarkably well-preserved architectural wonders created by the Ancestral Puebloans.

Interesting Fact: Mesa Verde National Park has over 600 cliff dwellings, making it the largest archaeological preserve in the United States.

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a scenic and historic train ride through the picturesque San Juan National Forest. Travelers can board the historic steam engine train in Durango and enjoy a breathtaking journey through the rugged canyons and along the Animas River to the charming town of Silverton. The train ride provides an incredible opportunity to experience the beauty of the Colorado Rockies from a unique vantage point.

Interesting Fact: The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has been in continuous operation for over 130 years, and the steam engines still use coal-fired, steam-powered locomotives.

In conclusion, a road trip from Custer, South Dakota to Mancos, Colorado offers an incredible opportunity to explore some of the most breathtaking natural and historical landmarks of the American West. The trip takes approximately 9 hours of driving time without stops, and travelers have the chance to marvel at iconic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore, experience the rugged beauty of national parks like Badlands and Black Canyon of the Gunnison, explore the history of Mesa Verde, and enjoy a scenic train ride through the Rockies. This road trip promises an unforgettable adventure through some of the most captivating landscapes and historic sites in the United States.