Black Hills South Dakota Snowshoeing

Lead your family on a Black Hills wintertime adventure and experience dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife as you trek over pristine snow in a pair of personal or rented snowshoes.

Overview

Black Hills National Forest is the primary destination for fantastic snowshoeing opportunity. Thousands of acres await your exploration, with 60 miles of trails designated for shared cross-country ski and snowshoe use. Unlike many recreational activities, snowshoeing is a relatively easy and inexpensive sport. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own shoes – ski resorts, private lodges and outdoor sporting goods stores sell or rent snowshoes, from the traditional type to the smaller, newer model. Some resorts and lodges also offer guided snowshoe tours whose prices often incorporate equipment, food, and accommodation.

Where To Go Snowshoeing

Break new trail through pine forests, up mountain slopes, over frozen creeks and across prairie land blanketed in white, or try some of these designated snowshoe areas:

Mickelson Trail
Trek a section of this 109-mile trail, with gentle, family-friendly slopes, it’s a perfect place to test your snowshoes. Featuring: 15 trailheads with parking areas, toilets, benches and shelters.

Centennial Trail
Running 111 miles, from Bear Butte Lake to Wind Cave National Park, this trail traverses a diversity of landscapes, featuring a section through Black Elk Wilderness, full of wildlife and spectacular scenery.

Black Hills National Forest
Try these designated snowshoeing areas:

• Northern Hills (Spearfish area)
• Northwestern Hills (Sundance area)
• Southern Hills (Custer area and Custer State Park)

Rentals and Fees

Snowshoe rentals are available from a variety of service providers and locations, including sporting goods stores, ski resorts, and lodges. Those new to snowshoeing may want to consider renting poles to help with balance and climbing power. A warm pair of pack boots are also essential to wear with your shoes. Daily rental fees start around $15.

Hire A Guide

Many lodges and resorts offer guided snowshoeing trips, an ideal way to learn about the Black Hills' landscape, wildlife and history.  Vacation packages and guided tour prices vary, depending on the length and duration of your tour.  Some regional areas also host locally organized snowshoeing events - check local listings upon arrival.