Pros & cons
PROS
- Historic 1929 deck-arch with dramatic canyon views
- Easy photo stop from Lookout Point/Centennial Trailhead pullouts
- Frequent bison sightings along SD‑87 nearby
CONS
- Tiny pullouts that are easy to miss
- No on-site amenities
- Occasional road work or closures
Overview
Beaver Creek Bridge is the photogenic, historic centerpiece of the park’s SD‑87 scenic drive—built in 1929 and notable as the only bridge of its arch type in South Dakota. It spans a deep Beaver Creek canyon, roughly 225 feet long and about 115 feet above the floor, which is why it looks best from side angles rather than while you’re driving across.
Where It Is and How to See It
It’s about 2 miles north of the Visitor Center on SD‑87. You can drive over it, but the money shot comes from small roadside pullouts. The easiest all-in-one view is from the pullout near the Centennial Trailhead/Lookout Point; another small pullout sits closer to the bridge itself. Slow down—both are easy to overshoot—and never stop on the bridge deck.
Why It’s Cool
This isn’t just a random crossing; it’s a handsome concrete deck‑arch that tells the story of early road‑building in the Black Hills. The big arch, the carved canyon, and rolling prairie around it make for quick, satisfying photos—many visitors consider it an “iconic” stop on the drive.
Wildlife and Scenery
Bison regularly graze along SD‑87, especially near Lookout Point, and prairie dogs often pop up in nearby grasslands. They add character to photos, but give them plenty of space and stay in your vehicle when animals are close.
Best Time to Visit
Go early or late for softer light and fewer cars in your frame. Weekdays are quieter. If construction or temporary closures pop up, adjust your plan and check current park alerts before you roll.
Practicalities
There are no amenities at the bridge or its pullouts—no restrooms, water, or picnic tables—so plan pit stops at the Visitor Center a couple of miles south. Use the designated pullouts for viewing and photography.
Where it is
43.5842, -103.4894Tips for Beaver Creek Bridge
- 01Approach slowly on SD‑87 so you don’t miss the small pullouts.
- 02For the full bridge view, use the Lookout Point/Centennial Trailhead pullout.
- 03Shoot in early or late light for the best contrast on the arch and canyon.
- 04Do not stop on the bridge deck; use pullouts only.
- 05Check current road conditions and alerts before you go.
Amenities
Near Beaver Creek Bridge
All places →All trails →
0.3 mi awayLookout PointRolling prairie loop with big views, prairie dogs, and bison.Moderate · 4.8 mi · 2 hr
0.3 mi awayLookout Point TrailPrairie-to-canyon loop with bison, prairie dogs, and a vanishing creekModerate · 4.8 mi · 2 hr
1.3 mi awayElk Mountain Nature TrailEasy prairie and pine loop with wildlife and interpretive stopsEasy · 1 mi · 30 min
1.3 mi awayElk Mountain CampgroundQuiet, year-round campground with wildlife and easy cave tour accessCampground · Restroom
1.9 mi awayRankin RidgeShort loop to the park’s highest views and a historic towerTrailhead · Parking
2 mi awayPrairie Vista TrailEasy prairie loop with big views and a peek at Wind Cave’s entranceEasy · 0.9 mi · 22 min
2 mi awayFairgrounds (Wind Cave)Strenuous cave tour packed with Wind Cave’s signature boxworkVisitor Center · Restroom
2 mi awayModel RoomHistoric chamber named for Odd Fellows symbols and lore
