Drives South Dakota The Black Hills and the Badlands
Highway 385: Custer to Hot Springs
US 385, Centennial Drive · Custer → Hot Springs
The drive
This is US 385 running south from Custer to Hot Springs. The highway travels through Pringle and Wind Cave National Park on its way, and the 30.1-mile drive takes about 41 minutes. Forest curves in the Black Hills give way to open prairie hills toward the south.
Wind Cave National Park lists bison, pronghorn and prairie dogs among its animals, so keep an eye out for wildlife near the road. Hot Springs is the end of the drive.
Along the way
- Custer
- Hot Springs
Good to know
- Wildlife, including bison, can be near or on the road near Wind Cave.
- The highway passes through Wind Cave National Park, where bison and pronghorn live.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check SD511 road conditions.
Questions about this drive
How long is US 385 from Custer to Hot Springs?
US 385 from Custer to Hot Springs is 30.1 miles and takes about 41 minutes.
Does US 385 go through Wind Cave National Park?
Yes. The highway passes through Wind Cave National Park between Custer and Hot Springs.
Is there wildlife on US 385 near Wind Cave?
Wind Cave National Park lists bison, pronghorn and prairie dogs among its animals.
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.