You Will Want To Take A Drive Down U S Route 385 In South Dakota

Do you feel the need to get out and hit the open road? If so, South Dakota is the best place to be, as we have more scenic and historic drives than one can count! If you are looking for a ride that is chock-full of things to see and do, however, you will want to drive the ever-changing U.S. Route 385:

Running from Big Bend National Park in Texas to Deadwood, U.S. Route 385 is a whopping 1,206-mile road that passes through some of the most beautiful places in both the Midwest and west.

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Spanning most of the Black Hills, U.S. Route 385 is billed as being one of the longest roads in the region, making it perfect for a daytime drive or weekend road trip.

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Entering South Dakota south of Oelrichs, U.S. Route 385 overlaps with U.S. Route 18 between Oelrichs and Hot Springs before turning north and entering Wind Cave National Park (pictured).

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After Wind Cave, Route 18 begins to veer west, where it goes through the towns of Pringle, Custer, Hill City, and - finally - Deadwood.

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When you travel U.S. Route 385, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for such jaw-dropping sights as Pactola Reservoir, Sheridan Lake, and other SoDak landmarks.

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If you have the time, be sure also to plan to make several stops along the way, as the highway passes countless trails, shops, restaurants, and museums.

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To learn more about U.S. Route 385 and all the things you can see and do on your journey, please visit the Black Hills & Badlands Tourism Association’s website.

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Which South Dakota drive is YOUR favorite? Let us know in the comments or via our nomination form! For even more of our favorite roads around the Mount Rushmore State, check out These 10 Road Trips In South Dakota Will Lead You To Places You’ll Never Forget.