Black Elk Peak
Hike to South Dakota's highest point for panoramic views and a historic stone fire tower. A challenging yet rewarding adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Black Elk Peak
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to South Dakota's highest point for panoramic views and a historic stone fire tower. A challenging yet rewarding adventure.
"The most beautiful vistas I've ever seen. The hike is strenuous, but worth it 100%."
Start Early to Beat Heat
Hike in the cooler morning hours to avoid summer heat and midday crowds. :sunriseovermountains:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Supportive footwear is crucial for the 7-mile trek. Your feet will thank you! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Summit View
Black Elk Peak Summit
Stand atop South Dakota's highest point and gaze upon panoramic views stretching across four states.
Historic Stone Fire Tower
Black Elk Peak Summit
Admire the unique stone fire tower, a historic landmark offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.
Sylvan Lake Trailhead
Sylvan Lake
Begin your adventure at the picturesque Sylvan Lake, known for its stunning rock formations and clear waters.
Cathedral Spires
Trail 4
Explore the dramatic rock spires along Trail 4, offering a more scenic and less crowded route.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Start Early to Beat Heat
Hike in the cooler morning hours to avoid summer heat and midday crowds. :sunriseovermountains:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Supportive footwear is crucial for the 7-mile trek. Your feet will thank you! :athletic_shoe:
Hydrate and Snack Well
Carry plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks for the strenuous climb. :water_wave: :apple:
Choose Scenic Trail 4
Opt for Trail 4 for a more scenic route with unique rock formations. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Start Early to Beat Heat
Hike in the cooler morning hours to avoid summer heat and midday crowds. :sunriseovermountains:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Supportive footwear is crucial for the 7-mile trek. Your feet will thank you! :athletic_shoe:
Hydrate and Snack Well
Carry plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks for the strenuous climb. :water_wave: :apple:
Choose Scenic Trail 4
Opt for Trail 4 for a more scenic route with unique rock formations. :camerawithflash:
Check Weather Forecast
Weather can change quickly; pack layers and be prepared for various conditions. :cloud: :umbrella:
Respect the Environment
Practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers consistently praise Black Elk Peak for its breathtaking summit views and the unique stone fire tower. The challenging yet rewarding 7-mile trek through diverse terrain is a major draw. Some visitors note that the trail can be crowded, and weather conditions can impact visibility, but the overall experience is highly regarded.
"Great hike! We ascended through trail 9 on the back half of the loop and descended through trail 4 by the cathedral spires. Much more scenic on trail 4 while trail 9 is heavily wooded/forest. Unfortunately it was super foggy when we reached the top so we didn’t get to see the pretty views but we still enjoyed the hike nonetheless."
Zuleyma Castillo
"The most beautiful vistas I've ever seen. The hike is strenuous, but worth it 100%."
Mike Nicewarner
"You will see in my pictures that we climbed Black Elk Peak during a snowfall. The views are less stunning, but they have a beauty to them that's hard to get without the snow. The scrambling toward the end is pretty straightforward, which was needed if we wanted to do it with snow falling."
Diego Salas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Elk Peak is located within Custer State Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The most common trailhead is at Sylvan Lake. Access to Custer State Park requires a park entrance fee. From the Sylvan Lake trailhead, the hike is approximately 7 miles round trip. 
While you can drive to the Sylvan Lake area, the peak itself is only accessible by hiking. The drive through Custer State Park offers scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
From Rapid City, take US-16 W to SD-244 W towards Custer State Park. Follow signs for Sylvan Lake. The drive itself is part of the experience, often called the 'Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway'.
Yes, you can use GPS to navigate to Sylvan Lake, which is the primary trailhead for Black Elk Peak. Ensure your GPS is updated for accurate directions within the park.
There are no dedicated shuttle services directly to the Black Elk Peak trailhead. Visitors typically drive their own vehicles or use ride-sharing services to reach Sylvan Lake.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need a separate ticket for the hike itself, but you will need to pay an entrance fee to Custer State Park, where Black Elk Peak is located. This fee is typically per vehicle.
Black Elk Peak is accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, the Sylvan Lake area and park facilities may have specific operating hours. It's best to check the Custer State Park website for current information.
The entrance fee for Custer State Park is a daily fee per vehicle. Prices can vary, so it's recommended to check the official Custer State Park website for the most up-to-date fee information.
No, tickets are not required for Black Elk Peak itself. The park entrance fee can usually be paid upon arrival at the park entrance stations.
Discounts may be available for annual passes or for specific groups. Check the Custer State Park website for any applicable discount programs or passes.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Black Elk Peak is generally considered moderate to strenuous. It's a 7-mile round trip with over 1,100 feet of elevation gain, featuring steep sections and rocky terrain.
Most hikers take between 3 to 5 hours to complete the round trip, including time for breaks and enjoying the summit views. This can vary based on fitness level and how long you spend at the top.
Wear comfortable, supportive hiking shoes or boots. Dress in layers, as temperatures can fluctuate. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
Dogs are generally allowed on trails in Custer State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check the latest park regulations regarding pets.
From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Black Hills, and on clear days, you might see into South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, and Nebraska.
Black Elk Peak is a very popular hike, especially during peak season and on weekends. Starting early or visiting on a weekday can help avoid the largest crowds.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Sylvan Lake trailhead. There are no restrooms along the trail itself, so plan accordingly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Sylvan Lake Lodge offers dining options near the trailhead. Within Custer State Park, there are other lodges and restaurants. For more extensive options, the nearby towns of Custer and Hill City have various eateries.
Picnicking is permitted in designated areas within Custer State Park, including near the Sylvan Lake trailhead. Remember to pack out all trash.
Dining options within the park range from casual cafes to more formal lodge restaurants, often featuring regional American cuisine.
It is highly recommended to bring your own snacks and plenty of water for the hike, as options are limited on the trail.
While the peak itself offers the best views, some lodges within Custer State Park may have dining areas with scenic overlooks.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially during sunrise or sunset. The stone fire tower provides a unique architectural element. Trail 4 also offers dramatic views of the Cathedral Spires. +1
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hours) provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm glow. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and state parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check the specific Custer State Park regulations regarding drone operation.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures.
The mix of forest, rock formations, and the historic fire tower creates diverse photographic opportunities. If you're lucky, you might also capture wildlife like bison or prairie dogs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key Recommendations for Families:
* Start early: Beat the heat and potential afternoon thunderstorms.
* Pack extra snacks and water: Essential for keeping energy levels up.
* Focus on the journey: Enjoy the unique rock formations and forest scenery, not just the summit.
* Consider the Sylvan Lake area: The lake itself is beautiful and offers opportunities for exploration near the trailhead.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget-Saving Tips:
* Pack your own provisions: Bring all your food and drinks for the hike.
* Camp nearby: Explore affordable camping options in the national forest or state park.
* Visit during shoulder seasons: You might find lower accommodation rates outside of peak summer.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Don't overlook the scenic beauty along Trail 4, where the dramatic Cathedral Spires provide striking compositions. Photography Tips:
* Golden Hour: Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light.
* Wide-Angle Lens: Ideal for capturing the expansive views.
* Tripod: Useful for low-light conditions or capturing the tower's details.
* Look for wildlife: Keep an eye out for bison and other animals for unique shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to the Summit
Key Takeaways:
* Distance: Approximately 7 miles round trip.
* Elevation Gain: Over 1,100 feet.
* Trail Options: Trail 9 (wooded) and Trail 4 (scenic, Cathedral Spires).
* Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous.
It's crucial to be prepared for the physical demands of the hike. Bringing ample water and snacks is essential, as there are no services along the trail.
The Iconic Stone Fire Tower
Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for unobstructed 360-degree views, making it a prime spot for photography and soaking in the vastness of the landscape. The tower itself is a marvel of stonework, blending seamlessly with the natural environment. It serves as a beacon for hikers reaching the summit and provides a sense of accomplishment. The views from the tower are truly spectacular, allowing you to see across multiple states on a clear day.
+1 It’s a must-see feature for anyone making the trek to Black Elk Peak, offering both historical significance and unparalleled scenic beauty.Wildlife Encounters in Custer State Park
It's important to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed them. The park's scenic drives, like the Wildlife Loop Road, are excellent for spotting animals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit