Cathedral Spires is one of the most beautiful rock formations in Custer State Park, and you can get a pretty close look at them from the Needles Highway just off Iron Mountain Road between the park and Keystone.
The Spires are also a popular destination from rock climbers all over the world. One climbing website noted that the nine spires have roughly 75 summits, and most routes lead to awesome small summit perches. The climbing routes have fanciful names such as God’s Own Drunk, Cat’s Meow, Highly Suspicious and Hang a Right at Fourth Avenue.
Even if you don’t know a pitch from a piton, you too can try your hand at rock climbing in the Black Hills. Sylvan Rocks Climbing School & Guide Service will take you up, show you the basics and let you feel the rock beneath your fingers — safely.