Route to take from Hill City to Wildlife Loop

I have a very limited time to visit the area in the end of September and would like to get to Custer State Park on Saturday morning and then see other attractions.

I%26#39;m staying at Holiday Inn Express in Hill City.

What would be the fastest way to get to Wildlife Loop from HIE? The Wildlife Loop is our priority on this short visit. Does Custer SP has scheduled opening hours or is the gate open 24/7? Thanks

Places

Route to take from Hill City to Wildlife Loop

Take 385 south to Custer, then 16A east into the park and south on 87. You%26#39;ll pass Mount Coolidge and Blue Bell before turning onto the Wildlife Loop.

You could also keep going on 16A past the Game Lodge and then turn south on the Wildlife Loop over by the airport and do the Loop in the other direction. I haven%26#39;t really been able to find an advantage to one way or the other with the Wildlife Loop.

The gates are open 24 hours.

Route to take from Hill City to Wildlife Loop

Thank you Accommodator. I included your suggestion in my itinerary.

More questions to come soon.