We welcome you to the area if you are here! If you are in the Black Hills region, you may wish to kill two birds with one stone by viewing the Needles Highway and the Crazy Horse Memorial in one go. Can you do that?
No. The Crazy Horse Memorial cannot be seen from the Needles Highway. Despite being located in the same area, both are on different mountains, and the geography does not allow for a view of the memorial from the highway.
To learn more, please continue reading.
The Crazy Horse Memorial
The Crazy Horse Memorial is a mountain monument in the Black Hills of South Dakota, USA. It is a tribute to Crazy Horse, an Oglala Lakota warrior who fought against the US government’s encroachment on Native American lands. It features a massive sculpture of Crazy Horse on horseback, with his arm outstretched, pointing towards his homeland.
Once completed, the statue will be carved into Thunderhead Mountain and is designed to be the largest sculpture in the world.
The Crazy Horse Memorial includes a museum and cultural center that showcases the history and traditions of Native American cultures. It is a unique and inspiring tribute to Native American history and culture and is a wonderful place to learn about the Lakota people, their traditions, and their history.
How Far Away Is Crazy Horse From Needles Highway?
The Crazy Horse Memorial and Needles Highway are located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. The Needles Highway is a scenic drive winds through granite spires and needle-like rock formations. It is located within the boundaries of the Custer State Park and starts at the junction of US Highway 16A and State Route 87, also known as Sylvan Lake Road.
To learn more about the Needles Highway, watch this video:
The Crazy Horse Memorial is located about 17 miles (27 km) southwest of Needles Highway. The fastest and most direct route to get there is to take US Highway 16 west from the Needles Highway to the junction of US Highway 385 and then head south on US Highway 385 until you reach the memorial.
Alternatively, you can take the scenic route and drive through Custer State Park to reach the Crazy Horse Memorial. From the Needles Highway, take State Route 87/Sylvan Lake Road south to the park’s Wildlife Loop Road, and then continue south on US Highway 385 to reach the memorial.
Can You See Crazy Horse From Needles Highway?
It is impossible to see the Crazy Horse Memorial from the Needles Highway. The Needles Highway is in the Black Hills of South Dakota, while the Crazy Horse Memorial is located on a separate mountain and is not visible from the highway.
To see the Crazy Horse Memorial, you must travel south on US Highway 385 from the Needles Highway for about 17 miles (27 km). The memorial is located on the east side of the highway and can be easily seen from the road.
Things To Do At Crazy Horse
If you are worried about what you are going to do when you get to Crazy Horse, we have got you. Below is a curated list of activities that you can indulge in.
View The Sculpture
The centerpiece of the Crazy Horse Memorial is the massive sculpture of Crazy Horse on horseback. You can see the sculpture from a distance and even get a chance to view the ongoing carving process.
Visit The Museum And Cultural Center
The memorial includes a museum and cultural center that showcases the history and traditions of Native American cultures. This is your chance to learn about the Lakota people, their traditions, and the monument’s history. The center also features exhibits and artifacts about Native American art, history, and culture.
Attend A Cultural Event
If you are lucky, you may stumble upon one of the events that the Crazy Horse Memorial hosts every year. These events celebrate Native American culture, including powwows, art shows, and traditional music and dance performances.
Take A Guided Tour
Guided tours of the Crazy Horse Memorial are available and will provide you with a deeper understanding of the monument’s history and significance. Audio tours are also available if you prefer to explore the memorial at your own pace.
Hike To The Base Of The Sculpture
If you want physical exertion when you visit, the annual Volksmarch is a popular hiking event that allows visitors to hike up to the monument’s base. The event is held twice a year, in June and September.
Shop For Souvenirs
Take a piece of Crazy Horse with you when you leave! The memorial features a gift shop that sells Native American crafts, jewelry, and other souvenirs. This is a great way to show support for the community and remember the place forever.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Crazy Horse?
The best time to visit the Crazy Horse Memorial is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the memorial offers a range of events and activities for visitors to enjoy.
June is a particularly good time to visit when the first annual Volksmarch is held. This hiking event allows people to hike up to the monument’s base and get a closer look at the sculpture. September is also a good time to visit, as it’s when the second Volksmarch of the year is held.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds and higher temperatures, the shoulder seasons of May and September be great times to visit. The weather is still mild and pleasant during these months, with fewer visitors than during the peak summer months.
Final Thoughts
Do not be disheartened that you cannot see the Crazy Horse Memorial from Needles Highway. It is a small detour, and it is worth it. Make the most of your presence in the area and check into all the significant places you must see!