Most folks hear “South Dakota” and instantly picture Sturgis: the thunder of bikes, sea of leather, and a solid week of organized chaos. Don’t get me wrong—Sturgis is a must at least once in your riding life—but if you’re looking for something quieter, something with sweeping views, fewer RVs, and roads that feel like they were laid out by riders for riders, South Dakota has more to offer than the rally. You just have to get a little off the beaten path.

As someone who transitioned from two wheels to three with my Can-Am Spyder RT (after a healthy dose of cruiser and ADV life), I’ve come to appreciate the kind of routes that let you breathe, appreciate the curves without white-knuckling the bars, and soak up the sights. Especially when you’ve raised triplets solo, worked full-time, and earned your degree in your 30s—it’s kind of nice to not have every ride feel like a math test on lean angles.

Here are three lesser-known motorcycle routes across South Dakota that pack in the scenery, deliver the ride feel you’re craving, and throw in a few roadside gems along the way. Trust me, these rides are worth the detour.

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway: A Narrow Slice of Heaven

If the Black Hills had a heartbeat, Spearfish Canyon would be the pulse. Tucked away just south of the town of Spearfish on Highway 14A, this 20-mile stretch of two-lane bliss is a hidden jewel that deserves far more attention than it gets during Rally Week.

The ride winds through a deep limestone canyon, with towering cliffs, dense pine forests, and waterfalls that seem like they were plucked from a national park promo reel. Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls are both worth a stop—and yes, you’ll want to take off your helmet and just listen to the sound of water crashing over stone.

What I love about Spearfish Canyon is the rideability. It’s curvy without being complicated, scenic without being sensory overload. Perfect for Spyder riders and two-wheelers alike.

Local Eateries Worth the Stop:
Fuel up with breakfast or a burger at The Latchstring Inn, perched right in the canyon and known for its buffalo stew and killer pie.

Where to Stay:
Check out Spearfish Canyon Lodge for rustic luxury. It’s Spyder-friendly and located smack in the middle of the canyon—ride in, park, and soak up the serenity.

The Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park: Ride with the Locals (and by locals, I mean buffalo)

Custer State Park gets plenty of love, but most folks bolt through it on their way to Mount Rushmore or the Needles Highway. That’s fine—let them miss the good stuff. The Wildlife Loop is an 18-mile ride through open prairie, rolling hills, and valleys where wild donkeys, prairie dogs, and herds of bison are just part of the commute.

Unlike some scenic roads that require technical skill or “clench and pray” cornering, the Wildlife Loop is ideal for a relaxed cruise. On a Can-Am Spyder, it’s a dream—smooth tarmac, gentle curves, and enough straightaways to snap a few photos or wave at the locals (just don’t wave at the bison... they’re a little moody).

This ride is perfect for day-trippers who want something light on stress and heavy on jaw-dropping nature. And if you catch it at golden hour? Well, let’s just say you might cry a little behind your visor.

Local Eateries Worth the Stop:
Before or after your loop, grab lunch at Blue Bell Lodge. The chuckwagon-style menu is hearty, the atmosphere authentically Western, and the porch views can’t be beat.

Where to Stay:
Want something memorable? Try State Game Lodge. Presidents Coolidge and Eisenhower stayed there—if it was good enough for them, it’s probably good enough for your crew.

Iron Mountain Road: Twists, Tunnels, and Big Payoffs

This one’s not exactly “secret,” but compared to its famous neighbors like the Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road tends to get less traffic—and a lot more love from those who appreciate a good stretch of twisty tarmac.

Officially U.S. Route 16A, Iron Mountain Road connects Custer State Park to Mount Rushmore. It’s only 17 miles long, but don’t let the distance fool you—it features 314 curves, 14 switchbacks, three pigtail bridges, and three one-lane tunnels, including one that perfectly frames Mount Rushmore in the distance.

It’s a technical ride, especially if you’re on two wheels, but manageable and fun on a Spyder. Those pigtail bridges are a blast—think roller coaster for grown-ups, minus the nausea.

Pro tip: Ride it north to south if you want the best Mount Rushmore tunnel view.

Local Eateries Worth the Stop:
Stop in Keystone and hit up Powder House Lodge Restaurant—Known for wild game options like buffalo burgers and elk steaks, plus classic comfort foods.

Where to Stay:
Keystone offers a variety of cabin rentals and campgrounds. If you're feeling fancy, book a room at K Bar S Lodge, which offers great views and plenty of motorcycle parking.

Bonus Stop: Scenic Overlook at Norbeck Overlook

Between Iron Mountain Road and the Needles, take a breather at Norbeck Overlook. It’s one of the most underrated pull-offs in the region and gives you panoramic views of the Black Hills that are worth a thousand postcards.

As someone who rides to reset and reconnect with the world around me, this spot hits hard. No crowds. No noise. Just wind, pine trees, and a sense that you're standing exactly where you're supposed to be.

Planning Your Ride

If you’re like me—a day-tripper who’s starting to stretch into longer rides—these routes offer that perfect mix of manageable distance and memorable scenery. You can tackle any of these in half a day, or combine them into a long weekend that reminds you why riding isn’t just a hobby, but a way to fully experience the world.

All three routes are Spyder-friendly, although they’ll put a smile on any rider’s face, no matter what they’re sitting on. Think of them like South Dakota’s hidden playlist—less radio hit, more deep cut that becomes your new favorite.

Oh, and bring your camera. You're going to want proof when you tell your friends you rode through a tunnel that frames Mount Rushmore, or that you had to slow down for a wild donkey who decided he had the right of way.

What to Pack for These Routes

Don’t forget the essentials:

• Layered gear (it can go from 40°F to 85°F real fast in the Hills)

• Hydration (your body will thank you, especially in the higher elevations)

• National Park Annual Pass (because saving money = more gas money)

• A tank bag or saddlebag to hold the buffalo jerky you’re 100% going to buy

If you’re riding two-up, pack a little patience and a snack for your passenger—especially if they didn’t sign up for pigtail bridges. And if you’re riding solo like I used to before my husband came into the picture, just enjoy the ride without having to stop every 10 minutes for bathroom breaks. (Seriously, parenting triplets prepped me for anything—except maybe surprise hail.)