Rankin Ridge Nature Trail
A scenic 1-mile loop trail in Wind Cave National Park, leading to the highest point for panoramic Black Hills views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Rankin Ridge Nature Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 1-mile loop trail in Wind Cave National Park, leading to the highest point for panoramic Black Hills views.
"The hike is only about 1.5 miles round trip and the views are amazing. Definitely worth a quick stop!"
Reserve Cave Tours Early
Popular cave tours sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is rustic and can be tiring. Hiking boots or shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rankin Ridge Fire Tower
Summit of Rankin Ridge
Hike to the fire tower for panoramic views of the Black Hills and beyond. Even if the tower is closed, the summit offers stunning vistas.
Panoramic Black Hills Views
Rankin Ridge Summit
On clear days, witness breathtaking views stretching to Badlands National Park and Buffalo Gap.
Ponderosa Pine Forest
Rankin Ridge Nature Trail
Meander through a beautiful ponderosa pine forest on this scenic 1-mile loop trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Cave Tours in Advance
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve Cave Tours Early
Popular cave tours sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is rustic and can be tiring. Hiking boots or shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Check Fire Tower Access
The fire tower at the summit offers great views, but access may be restricted. :information_source:
Combine Trail & Road
For a loop, take the easier road up and the more maintained trail down. :loop:
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve Cave Tours Early
Popular cave tours sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is rustic and can be tiring. Hiking boots or shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Check Fire Tower Access
The fire tower at the summit offers great views, but access may be restricted. :information_source:
Combine Trail & Road
For a loop, take the easier road up and the more maintained trail down. :loop:
Wildlife Sightings Possible
Keep an eye out for bison, rabbits, and other wildlife along the trail. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Rankin Ridge Nature Trail to be a rewarding, moderately challenging hike with stunning panoramic views from the summit. While the fire tower itself may be closed, the accessible trail and breathtaking vistas make it a worthwhile stop for most. Some note the climb can be tiring, but the overall experience is highly positive.
"This is a moderately difficult rustic trail. You hike up the hill either using the road or the trail up to where the lookout tower is. The lookout tower was not open, but the views were still amazing. I hiked up the road to the top and then took the trail back down. I really enjoyed this hike. I say hiking shoes or boots are required."
Cindy Puzio
"The lookout tower was cool. If you could go to the top it'd be even cooler. The hike from the parking lot is only about 1.5 miles round trip and the views are amazing. Definitely worth a quick stop to stretch your legs and take in the view."
Tommy Dyson
"It’s a nice hike to the fire tower. The trail is only one mile but the climb is a bit tiring."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rankin Ridge Nature Trail is located within Wind Cave National Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Access is typically via the park's main roads. The trailhead is well-marked from the parking area.
No, Rankin Ridge Nature Trail is located within Wind Cave National Park, which is a separate park from Custer State Park, though they are geographically close. +1
No, the summit is accessible only by hiking the Rankin Ridge Nature Trail or the access road. The trail is approximately 1 mile round trip.
Yes, there is a designated parking area at the trailhead for Rankin Ridge Nature Trail. It can fill up during busy periods.
While the park roads are generally RV-friendly, the trail itself is a hiking path and not accessible by RVs. Parking is available for vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hiking Rankin Ridge Nature Trail itself does not require a separate ticket. However, you will need to pay the entrance fee for Wind Cave National Park, or have a valid park pass.
Entrance fees for Wind Cave National Park can vary. It's best to check the official NPS website for current pricing. A 7-day pass is often available.
Yes, you can hike the Rankin Ridge Nature Trail independently without booking a cave tour. The trail is a separate activity within the park.
Wind Cave National Park may offer discounts for certain groups, such as seniors or military personnel. Check the NPS website for details.
The National Park Service occasionally offers fee-free days at many of its parks, including Wind Cave. Keep an eye on the NPS website for announcements.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail is considered moderately difficult due to its uphill climb. It's a rustic trail, and some sections can be challenging, but it's only about 1 mile round trip.
Most visitors complete the Rankin Ridge Nature Trail in about 30-60 minutes, depending on their pace and how long they spend enjoying the views at the summit.
From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Black Hills. On very clear days, you might even see Badlands National Park and Buffalo Gap in the distance.
The fire tower at the summit of Rankin Ridge is often closed to the public. However, the views from the summit itself are still spectacular.
Restroom facilities may be available at or near the Rankin Ridge trailhead, but it's always a good idea to check the park's official map or ask a ranger for the most current information.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The ponderosa pine forest also provides beautiful shots.
Absolutely! The expansive views from the summit make it a prime location for landscape photographers looking to capture the vastness of the Black Hills.
Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) will provide the most dramatic and flattering light for your photographs.
While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed on the trail itself, keep your eyes peeled. If you do spot animals, maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens for photos.
Drone usage is restricted in most National Parks, including Wind Cave. Always check the official NPS regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and water, and encourage kids to look for interesting plants and rocks along the trail. While the fire tower may be closed, the summit views are still a highlight. Combine this hike with a visit to the park's visitor center or a shorter, easier trail for a well-rounded family outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
It's a perfect stop for a quick leg stretch and to soak in the expansive Black Hills scenery. Remember to let someone know your hiking plans and carry essentials like water and a fully charged phone.
📸 Photographers
Aim for golden hour – sunrise or sunset – for the most dramatic lighting. The ponderosa pine forest also offers opportunities for intimate nature shots. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for those sweeping vistas!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Wind Cave National Park
Beyond Rankin Ridge, the park's Wildlife Loop Road is a popular attraction, offering chances to see bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs. The Needles Highway in nearby Custer State Park is also a must-do scenic drive, known for its dramatic granite spires and tunnels.
When planning your visit, remember that cave tours require advance reservations, especially during peak season. The park's elevation means weather can change rapidly, so packing layers is always a good idea.
The Allure of the Black Hills
Nearby attractions include the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the Crazy Horse Memorial. For those seeking more adventure, Custer State Park boasts the stunning Needles Highway and the Wildlife Loop Road, where you might encounter herds of bison.
The Black Hills region is also home to other significant natural wonders like Badlands National Park and Jewel Cave National Monument, making it an ideal destination for a multi-day road trip.
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