Member-only story

Hiking the Black Hills Country: A Comprehensive Guide to Trails, Scenery, and History

Nikolai Gogol

·2.9k Followers· Follow

Published in Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

7 min read

330 View Claps

81 Respond

Save

Listen

Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of the American West, the Black Hills Country beckons hikers with its pristine wilderness, dramatic vistas, and abundant wildlife. From the iconic peaks of Crazy Horse Memorial and Mount Rushmore to the sprawling grasslands of Custer State Park and the otherworldly landscapes of Badlands National Park, this diverse region offers an unforgettable hiking experience.

Hiking the Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

by Marcus Heerdt

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	37339 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	214 pages

This comprehensive guide provides detailed descriptions of 10 must-hike trails in the Black Hills Country, covering a range of difficulties and scenic highlights. Each trail description includes a detailed map, elevation profile, and fascinating insights into the surrounding history and geology.

Trail Descriptions

1. Harney Peak Trail

Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 3.5 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: 450 feet

The Harney Peak Trail leads to the highest point in the Black Hills, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail meanders through a beautiful spruce forest, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer, elk, and bighorn sheep.

Panoramic View Of The Black Hills From The Summit Of Harney Peak Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

2. Cathedral Spires Trail

Difficulty: Challenging Distance: 5.6 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet

The Cathedral Spires Trail is a strenuous but rewarding hike to the summit of two spectacular granite spires. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Black Hills and surrounding plains, with opportunities to see mountain goats and other wildlife.

View Of The Cathedral Spires From The Trail Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

3. Black Elk Peak Trail

Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 6.4 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet

The Black Elk Peak Trail leads to the second highest point in the Black Hills and the highest point in South Dakota. The trail traverses a variety of landscapes, from spruce forests to open meadows, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

View Of The Black Hills From The Summit Of Black Elk Peak Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

4. Crazy Horse Memorial Trail

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 0.6 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: 100 feet

The Crazy Horse Memorial Trail offers a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur of Crazy Horse Memorial up close. The trail leads to the base of the sculpture and provides stunning views of the work in progress and the surrounding Black Hills.

View Of The Crazy Horse Memorial From The Trail Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

5. Mount Rushmore Presidential Trail

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 0.6 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: 50 feet

The Mount Rushmore Presidential Trail leads to the base of Mount Rushmore and offers stunning views of the iconic sculpture. The trail is paved and wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for visitors of all ages and abilities.

View Of Mount Rushmore From The Trail Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

6. Sylvan Lake Trail

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 5.6 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: 200 feet

The Sylvan Lake Trail loops around the beautiful Sylvan Lake, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding Black Hills. The trail passes through a variety of forest habitats, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer and beaver.

View Of Sylvan Lake From The Trail Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

7. Needles Highway Trail

Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 4.5 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: 500 feet

The Needles Highway Trail follows a scenic section of the Needles Highway, offering stunning views of the Black Hills and the Needles rock formations. The trail passes through a variety of tunnels and bridges, providing a unique hiking experience.

View Of The Black Hills From The Needles Highway Trail Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

8. Iron Mountain Road Trail

Difficulty: Challenging Distance: 10 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: 3,000 feet

The Iron Mountain Road Trail is a strenuous hike to the summit of Iron Mountain, the highest peak in South Dakota outside of the Black Hills. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and plains.

View Of The Black Hills From The Summit Of Iron Mountain Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

9. Badlands Wilderness Trail

Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 7 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: 500 feet

The Badlands Wilderness Trail traverses the rugged and beautiful Badlands National Park. The trail offers stunning views of the park's unique geology and opportunities to spot wildlife such as bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep.

View Of The Badlands From The Trail Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

10. Black Hills National Forest Trail

Difficulty: Varied Distance: 100+ miles Elevation Gain: Varies

The Black Hills National Forest Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that traverses the Black Hills National Forest. The trail offers a variety of hiking experiences, from easy day hikes to challenging backpacking trips.

View Of The Black Hills National Forest From The Trail Hiking The Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

Hiking the Black Hills Country offers an unforgettable experience for hikers of all ages and abilities. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich history, this region is a treasure trove of hiking trails that will leave you breathless. Whether you're seeking a challenging summit climb, a scenic nature walk, or a glimpse into the history of the American West, the Black Hills has something to offer everyone.

Hiking the Black Hills Country: A Guide To More Than 50 Hikes In South Dakota And Wyoming (State Hiking Guides Series)

by Marcus Heerdt

4.7 out of 5