The wild heart of South Dakota, Custer State Park rivals many of America’s national parks in scope and splendour. Just a 30-minute drive from the iconic faces of Mount Rushmore, you’ll discover some of the most distinct landscapes in the American West. Set deep in the Black Hills, the park is renowned for its granite peaks, sparkling lakes and one of the largest publicly owned bison herds in the world, with over 1,400 of these magnificent creatures roaming freely across the valleys. Though it offers all visitors twisting highways and world-class hiking trails, it especially rewards those who choose to stay longer and travel deeper. Here’s how to do just that.

Day 1: Take a scenic drive

Start your adventure from behind the wheel. Set off early on the southern end of the Needles Highway,

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