Pet-friendly road trip

Rapid City to Custer with your dog

Distance

45 mi

Driving

1.25 hrs

Dog breaks

About 2

The US-16 and the Wildlife Loop Road run from Rapid City to Custer is 45 miles. With a dog in the back, plan a 15-minute walk every two to three hours and book a room that takes pets before you leave, so you are not searching at 10 pm.

Dog-friendly places to sleep

Turn on the pet-friendly filter on the booking page and check the pet fee before you book.

• Stays in Keystone
• Stays in Custer

Pet rules at Custer

Check local leash rules at the trailhead.

Packing list for the dog

• Water bowl and a gallon of water, plus their usual food
• Crate or seat-belt harness for the whole drive
• Vaccination records, especially for border crossings
• Leash, waste bags and a towel for muddy paws
• Never leave a dog in a parked car, even with windows cracked

Along the way

• Wildlife Loop Road bison herds
• Begging burros
• Needles Highway

Full drive guide for this route