Black Hills National Forest Mystic Road

Mystic Road threads through some of the Black Hills’ roughest granite country, linking the ghost town remains of Mystic with the old mining camps scattered across Harney Peak’s eastern slopes. This 14-mile route starts innocently enough on Forest Service Road 110 but quickly deteriorates into loose granite climbs and tight boulder gardens that demand precise wheel placement — the infamous Devil’s Bathtub section alone has claimed more skid plates than a Moab slickrock trail.

Expect expert-level technical challenges requiring lifted vehicles with armor, winches, and experienced spotters. Summer’s your only realistic window, and even then afternoon thunderstorms turn granite into skating rinks. But push through the punishment and you’ll earn spectacular views of the Cathedral Spires, legitimate mining history at every turn, and some of the best high-altitude camping in South Dakota. Just bring spare parts — this road doesn’t forgive mechanical sympathy.