South Dakota's Black Hills, covered in a dense pine forest, is best known for its grand tribute to four American presidents at Mount Rushmore. So thick and so dark, it's this evergreen forest that gives the area the Black Hills name. Hidden among the hills and national forest are clusters of needle-like spires, stony crags and huge rock monoliths. While these granite outcroppings add to the lure of Needles Highway, the area is also dotted with lakes, waterfalls, endless caves and old mining towns. The narrow Needles Highway weaves its way through billion year old granite and 14 miles of spectacular Black Hills scenery.
   Newcomers will soon realize the entire Black Hills area offers many sightseeing opportunities. One of the Black Hills gems is pictured here in this inviting scene of Sylvan Lake. Nestled among a semi-circle of oddly shaped granite rock formations, Sylvan Lake is often called the crown jewel of Custer State Park. The area offers picnic areas, opportunities for rock climbing, rental boats, hiking trails and a natural pool for summertime swimming and recreation.

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