Best trails in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Black Elk Peak Loop takes hikers to the highest point in South Dakota and offers incredible 360 degree views of the Black Hills. This granite 7,242 foot mountain lies in the beautiful Black Elk Wilderness and is a popular location for visiting geologists due to its very unique geological history. This trail starts in Custer State Park and travels into Black Elk Wilderness area. There is a historic stone firetower at the tip of the peak that is no longer in use but is open to the public for viewing. The peak is just a short distance from Mount Rushmore. Hikers will enjoy wildflowers during the spring and summer months as well as crystal rock formations along the start of the trail. There are also wild raspberries and blueberries along the route. Black Elk Peak - formerly Harney Peak - honors Black Elk, a noted Lakota Sioux medicine man for whom the Wilderness Area is named.Show more

At the start there is a very rocky downward hike, the park service has provided handrails as you would likely struggle to climb down without them. Once you reach the bottom of this hike, you are treated to an awesome stroll along a creek with awesome views of the various rock formations. Dogs on leashes are okay, but be prepared to carry your dog at the start of the hike, as there are many areas that they need to jump down from. Show more

A nice walk around Lake Sylvan. Good views. Easy walk.Show more

Beautiful trail that takes you behind the Needles and Cathedral Spires on the way to Black Elk Peak. There are trail offshoots along the trail to Poet's Table, Little Devils Tower, and Cathedral Spires for those looking to add a little more adventure to their hike. Trail also offers a few great views of Black Elk Peak along the way. Black Elk Peak offers a gorgeous 4 State view (South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, and Nebraska) on a clear day and is the tallest mountain peak in South Dakota and the tallest peak east of the Rocky Mountains and west of the Pyrenees Mountains in France.Show more

The Wildlife Loop Road is a picturesque 18 mile drive through open grasslands and pine-covered hills. Much of the park's wildlife can be spotted here, including bison, pronghorn, whitetail and mule deer, elk, coyotes, prairie dogs, eagles, hawks and a variety of other birds. Abundant wildflowers and prairie grasses add to the beauty of the area.Show more