When visiting the Black Hills, there are certain things that tend to be on everyone’s “must do” list. For most, that includes: visit Mount Rushmore, take your picture with a giant tortoise at Reptile Gardens and see the buffalo in Custer State Park.

Another popular spot in the park, near Custer, is called the needle’s eye. It’s a crazy rock formation that is the product of millions of years of erosion, or an alien art project – whichever you’re more inclined to believe. One look and you’ll know how it got its name.

The needle’s eye is located just southeast of Sylvan Lake, along Highway 87. It’s well worth the stop next time you’re in the area. The eye itself is plenty interesting, but give yourself more than just a few minutes for this stop; there’s much more to see.

Directly across the road from the needle’s eye formation is an area perfect for some rock scrambling. Just start climbing up and in towards the right and you’ll find some really interesting areas. If you explore high enough and far enough, you’ll be rewarded with some incredible views of the southern Black Hills.

One of my favorite views in all of the region is tucked away up here. This area across from the needle’s eye is not a long hike, doesn’t require any special equipment and often goes overlooked by many visitors. So, park your car, explore the area and I bet you’ll be amazed by what you find.