Norbeck Overlook — Attraction in Hill City

Located right on the very end of the Needles Highway, this area provides an immaculate view of not just the Black Hills, but also, the American Wonder that is Mount Rushmore. Viewable from a distance.

On a recent family reunion, I had the glorious opportunity of coming up this overlook, named for former contributor of American Conservation, and a major player in the construction of other parks, such as Grand Teton National Park, Peter Norbeck, with the area also having a distinct historic area that I found myself very engrossed in as a history buff that told the story about Norbeck and his contributions in 1920s America to the modern park system.

The area, is also the most perpetual place you can get a view of Mount Rushmore, without having to drive into Keystone to do such properly, as you cannot easily view it from a distance on the right or left sides, you can also use observation binoculars to view the structure, which provides an added experience to the stop off of the Needles Highway.

There also is an amazing rock structure that is mostly for Photo opportunities and worked for a family of...

What a great ride on Iron Mountain Road! We stopped at the top at the overlook, parked in the big parking lot and walked up and stood up on top the rocks where you could see Mount Rushmore clearly in the distance. It was before noon I’m pretty sure, but it was hot and it was nice to stop and catch some shade here.

I just can’t believe that there’s no outhouses or bathroom alternatives at this stop. That’s why only four out of five stars.

Iron Mountain Road is rated as one of the most difficult for riders on motorcycles, and I am pleased to say I did it but with arthritic hands, I am paying for all that clutching today lol! Probably wouldn’t of been so bad if I hadn’t done the other most difficult in the area the day before (Needles hwy).

It may be rated as one of the most difficult, it’s only because of all the switchbacks and pigtails but there’s so much traffic on it you’re driving so slow it’s really not that difficult, so don’t be afraid just do it! Honestly, there were only a few places where I actually hit fourth gear, most of the time you’re in...

It's and overlook. It's way up in the yonder hills, and has a great direction view of the monument. All in all though, I give mad props to the City/State/County for maintaining the area and also having a great spot to pull off and park and also wonder around. Great informational sections and everytime I come up here, there is a good amount of people around soaking it in. Great place to stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the SD Black Hills. Bring a camera or don't forget to take your phone out of your...