Driving Through Doane Tunnel

The red taillights of a motorcycle can be seen as it drives through the Doane Robinson Tunnel along Iron Mountain Road. It thought the motorcyclist helped give perspective of how tight this one lane hand carved tunnel is.

Located in Custer State Park near Keystone, South Dakota, this is one of three granite tunnels along the scenic 17-mile Iron Mountain Road. Designed to perfectly frame Mount Rushmore, this viewpoint has become one of the most photographed stops in the Black Hills. In this vertical photograph I captured, the rugged granite textures surrounding the tunnel complement the landscape and partly cloudy blue sky, creating a scene where engineering and nature come together.

The tunnel honors Doane Robinson, the South Dakota historian widely known as the "Father of Mount Rushmore." His vision to carve a monumental sculpture into the Black Hills helped bring this American icon to life. Standing beneath the towering tunnel and looking out toward Mount Rushmore offers a memorable perspective that showcases the beauty, history, and ingenuity found throughout the Black Hills.

This photo was taken by Jennifer White with Timeless Moments Photography. All images are copyrighted Timeless Moments Photography/Jennifer White. All rights reserved.