The 2021 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is right around the corner, and thousands of bikers are planning their trips to the world-famous rally. The Black Hills and Badlands offer miles of awesome scenery and several memorable Sturgis motorcycle rides no matter which way you’re coming from. Take some time on your way to the rally or on the way home to check out these beautiful byways.

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

Just 22 miles west of Sturgis, Spearfish Canyon is indeed one of the most popular destinations for Sturgis attendees every year. More than 20 miles of scenic roadways offer spectacular views of thousand-foot limestone palisades, stunning waterfalls, creeks and many places to pull over in awe.

An elevation change of nearly 2,000 feet from one end of the canyon to the other adds to the beautiful backdrop found along the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. Click here to find directions, amenities and more along this route.

Custer State Park

If you’re looking for a ride to reconnect with nature, Custer State Park is where you’ll find it.

More than 70,000 acres of scenery; free-roaming wildlife; and twisting, winding roads give riders a sense of freedom and ease. Here is where you’ll find the legendary Needles Highway and the Pigtail Bridge, which take riders through rock formations and narrow tunnels with stunning views. Just when you think you’ve witnessed the most picturesque setting in the nation, another one follows just ahead.

Learn more and get directions here.

Devils Tower

Our country’s first national monument, Devils Tower rises 1,265 feet from the river plain and draws almost half a million visitors per year.

While a bit farther away from Sturgis than other scenic routes, a Sturgis motorcycle ride to Devils Tower is worth the extra time and miles.

Take the popular route dubbed the “Lasso” directly from Sturgis on a loop throughout South Dakota and Wyoming. You’ll find lots of biker crowds leaving Sturgis with the same idea.

You can find directions, road quality info, amenities and more on the Lasso route here.

Black Hills Grand Tour

For those who want to see all of the above and more, the Black Hills Grand Tour might be the king of all Sturgis motorcycle rides.

Starting in Deadwood, S.D., this ride winds through the Black Hills and into Wyoming before ending back in Spearfish, S.D. Along this route riders can glimpse South Dakota mainstays including Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial.

The road ahead travels through Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon and all the forests and scenery in between. A true Black Hills touring experience, this ride will leave you with memories of traveling a route that was made for bikers.

Find the full itinerary on the Black Hills Grand Tour here.

These are just four of many riding destinations throughout South Dakota. We wish you safe travels and a ride filled with sights and sounds you won’t forget.