Cathedral Spires, South Dakota

The Cathedral Spires of South Dakota create a dramatic landscape and tell a chapter of the history of the Black Hills. Located in Custer State Park along the Needles Highway, the Cathedral Spires lies 2.5 miles east of Sylvan Lake. Besides providing beauty for the eyes, the Cathedral Spires offer hiking as well as rock climbing.

The Cathedral Spires are a geologic example of joint-controlled weathering of granite. This formation is rare, establishing Cathedral Spires as a National Natural Landmark.

While traveling along the 14 mile-long Needles Highway, the Cathedral Spires Trail provides an excellent opportunity to take a break from the road and get some quick and dirty exercise. The trail stretches 1.5 miles and is considered strenuous. Most hikers average about 2 hours to hike the one-way trail and back. On the trail, you'll be exposed to features that are unique to the Black Hills area. Be aware that this trail does not connect to the Harney Peak Trail System.

Rock climbing on the Cathedral Spires offers several routes up to 4 pitches long. The climbs are mainly moderate traditional routes with a few difficult routes. No sport climbing is available. The climbing area was established in the 1940s and 1950s. To get to the climbs, drive to the Cathedral Spires parking lot and hike about a mile to the spires. Hike up appropriate gullies to reach desired climbs and routes.