Black Hills Hiking Trails, Backpacking

For the avid backpacker or the person who just wants a leisurely day hike, you can find a number of hiking options in the Black Hills region of South Dakota.

Overview

A Black Hills' hiking or backpacking adventure is a great way to explore the area's dramatic interior. Hundreds of miles of trails intersect a variety of landscapes with distances and difficulties to suit all abilities. Trail users should pack accordingly prior to Black Hills' hikes. Water, sun screen, sturdy boots, layered clothing and rain gear are essentials from spring through autumn. Rattle snakes are also common in some areas; be familiar with their habitats. Bring a camera to photograph wildlife and when possible, travel with a buddy.

Where to Hike/Backpack

With vast areas to choose from, it’s not difficult to find a Black Hills’ hiking trail to suit your needs. Try one of these popular destinations and high-lighted hikes:

Black Hills National Forest

From easy day-hikes to more taxing Black Hills’ backpacking excursions, Black Hills National Forest is the place to test your hiking mettle. Note: some trail sections are multi-use.

Black Elk Wilderness: Offering isolated areas and upwards of 10,000 acres to explore.

• Harney Peak-Sylvan Lake Trail
• Trailhead: Sylvan Lake 
• Distance: 3.5 miles (one-way)
• Ascent: 1,100 feet
• Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
• Usage: Heavy
• Highlights: Unrestricted panoramas from the summit, including views of Mt. Rushmore.

Cook Lake Recreation Area: 

• Cliff Swallow Trail
• Trailhead: Cook Lake Campground
• Distance: 3.7 mile (loop)
• Ascent: 400 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Usage: Light
• Highlights: Cook Lake overlook. Open to hikers/mountain bikers.

*Other BHNF hiking areas include Pactola Reservoir and Sheridan Lake Complexes and a 37-mile stretch of the Centennial Trail, between Fort Meade and Forest Road 202.

Badlands National Park

With narrow gorges, rock outcroppings, forests, and many wildlife species, Badlands National Park is a hiking hotspot...literally. Consider hiking open areas during early morning or late afternoon; summer temperatures can be very warm. Pack plenty of water.

Sage Creek Wilderness Area: Hikers will not have to compete with motorized users within this nearly 65,000 acre park section.

For hardcore backpackers, try:

• Sage Creek Loop
• Trailhead: Conata Picnic Area (12 miles south of Wall, SD)
• Distance: 22 miles (loop)
• Ascent: 400 – 500 ft
• Hike Time: 3 days
• Difficulty: Moderate – Challenging
• Highlights: View canyons, prairies, rock spires, ponds and tons of wildlife in peaceful seclusion. NO POTABLE WATER.

Centennial Trail

This 111-mile trail runs from Bear Butte State Park to Wind Cave National Park, with a section traversing Black Hills National Forest. Multi-use in some area, featuring a multitude of access points, this is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Black Hills.

George S Mickelson Trail

Jump on this 109-mile trail from several points between Edgemont and Dumont, and experience every kind of Black Hills' scenery. Note: Heavily used, with multi-use traffic in many sections.

Rentals/Fees

National Parks and some recreational areas charge entrance and usage fees. National/state park fees generally run from $4 - $15. National Park backcountry camping permit fees average around $14. Many hiking/backpacking areas are free.

Need to stock up on last-minute gear, such as hiking poles or water filters? Several equipment stores are located in the area, providing merchandise, rentals and trail information. 

Hire a Guide

Many touring companies and lodges offer guided hikes and backpacking trips in several Black Hills’ locations. Tour package fees often include lodging, food, equipment and transportation, with multi-day tours available.