Explore the Scenic Beauty of Rankin Ridge Trail
Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes of Rankin Ridge Trail, a must-visit hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota.
Nestled in the heart of Custer, South Dakota, Rankin Ridge Trail offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable hiking experience for tourists. This picturesque trail is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Rankin Ridge Trail
- Custer, South Dakota, 57730, US
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up during the hike.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes for better traction on rocky areas.
- Don’t forget your camera for breathtaking photos along the trail!
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to be prepared for changing conditions.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving to Rankin Ridge Trail, start from Custer, SD. Head east on US-16 E for about 3 miles. You will turn left onto SD-89 N and continue for approximately 5 miles. Look for the sign indicating the entrance to the Black Hills National Forest. Once you enter the forest, you'll find the parking area for Rankin Ridge Trail on your right. There is no parking fee required.
-
Public Transportation + Walking
For those using public transportation, take a bus from Rapid City to Custer. Once you arrive in Custer, you will need to use a taxi or rideshare service to reach the Black Hills National Forest entrance where Rankin Ridge Trail is located. The taxi ride will take around 15-20 minutes and cost approximately $20-$30. After arriving, look for the parking area for Rankin Ridge Trail on your right side. Be prepared to walk approximately 0.5 miles to reach the trailhead from the parking area.
-
Biking
If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike in Custer. From Custer, head east on US-16 E, then turn left onto SD-89 N. Biking to the trailhead is a scenic route but be cautious of traffic. It’s approximately a 5-mile ride to the entrance of the Black Hills National Forest, and you can lock your bike at the trailhead. Ensure you have a bike lock and be prepared for some uphill sections.
Discover more about Rankin Ridge Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hazelrodt Picnic Area
10.5 km
Discover the tranquility of Hazelrodt Picnic Area in Custer, SD, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Glen Erin School Historic Site
15.2 km
Explore the Glen Erin School Historic Site in Custer, South Dakota, a charming glimpse into the educational past surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel
16.9 km
Experience the Ultimate Comfort at Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast in Custer, SD – Your Gateway to the Scenic Black Hills and Outdoor Adventures.
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
17.7 km
Discover the untamed beauty of Custer State Park with Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours, the ultimate adventure for wildlife lovers.
Big Rock Park
17.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Big Rock Park in Custer, South Dakota, where nature, adventure, and tranquility await every visitor.
Custer Lighted Sign
17.9 km
Discover the nostalgic charm of the Custer Lighted Sign, a historical landmark that beautifully captures the essence of Custer, South Dakota.
Custer State Park Resort
17.9 km
Explore Custer State Park Resort – a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in South Dakota's breathtaking Black Hills.
Pageant Hill
17.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pageant Hill in Custer, South Dakota, a perfect venue for events and a scenic retreat for nature lovers.
Custer State Park Visitor Center
18.1 km
Discover the beauty and adventure of Custer State Park at the Visitor Center, your gateway to exploring South Dakota's wild landscapes.
Custer Bark Park
18.1 km
Explore the pet-friendly Custer Bark Park in South Dakota, where dogs can run free and socialize in a welcoming natural landscape.
Custer Skywalk Trailhead
18.2 km
Discover breathtaking views and exhilarating trails at Custer Skywalk Trailhead in South Dakota’s Black Hills, a paradise for nature lovers.
Ken's Minerals & Trading Post
18.2 km
Explore nature's hidden gems at Ken's Minerals & Trading Post in Custer, South Dakota, where rock enthusiasts find extraordinary specimens and unique treasures.
Harbach Centennial Park
18.2 km
Explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Harbach Centennial Park in Custer, South Dakota, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Dave's Rock Shop
18.3 km
Explore the enchanting world of geology at Dave's Rock Shop in Custer, South Dakota, home to a stunning collection of minerals and fossils.
Custer Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau
18.3 km
Explore the Custer Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau for essential tips and resources to enhance your visit to South Dakota's breathtaking Black Hills.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sanctuary Trail
1.5 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Sanctuary Trail, a serene hiking paradise nestled in the stunning landscapes of Custer, South Dakota.
Exposing The Past
3.1 km
Experience the history and culture of Native Americans at the Crazy Horse Memorial, a breathtaking tribute in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Lookout Point Trail
4.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lookout Point Trail in Custer, South Dakota, a must-visit hiking destination for all nature lovers.
Wind Cave National Park
6.6 km
Explore the enchanting depths and stunning landscapes of Wind Cave National Park, a gem in South Dakota offering adventure and natural beauty.
Wildlife Loop Road
7.2 km
Experience the breathtaking Wildlife Loop Road in South Dakota, a scenic drive through Custer State Park showcasing stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Wildlife Loop Rd
7.2 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, South Dakota, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center
7.4 km
Explore the stunning Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center - your gateway to unique geological wonders and diverse wildlife in South Dakota's natural beauty.
Prairie Dog Town
7.4 km
Explore the lively ecosystem of Prairie Dog Town in Custer, SD, and enjoy a unique wildlife experience amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Wind Cave Canyon
7.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wind Cave Canyon in Hot Springs, SD, a hiking paradise surrounded by unique geological wonders and abundant wildlife.
Bicycle Sculpture
8.6 km
Experience the whimsical Bicycle Sculpture in Pringle, SD—a unique artistic landmark perfect for memorable photos and outdoor fun.
Boland Ridge
9.1 km
Explore the breathtaking views and rich natural beauty of Boland Ridge, a premier hiking area in South Dakota's Black Hills region.
White Elephant Trailhead George S. Mickelson Trail
9.1 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and rich history at White Elephant Trailhead on the George S. Mickelson Trail in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Blue Bell Entrance Station (Custer State Park)
9.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife at Custer State Park's Blue Bell Entrance Station, a must-visit destination in South Dakota.
Bison Center
9.6 km
Discover the Bison Center in Fairburn, SD, where immersive exhibits meet the breathtaking beauty of America's iconic bison in their natural habitat.
Cold Brook Canyon Trail
9.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cold Brook Canyon Trail in Hot Springs, SD, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Essential places to dine
Dockside Grill
15.6 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in Custer's scenic beauty at Dockside Grill – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and nature.
State Game Lodge Restaurant Custer State Park
17.9 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine in the heart of Custer State Park at the State Game Lodge Restaurant—where nature meets culinary delight.
Subway
18.3 km
Discover deliciously fresh sandwiches at Subway in Custer—your perfect pit stop during South Dakota adventures.
Dakota Broasted, LLC
18.4 km
Experience mouthwatering broasted chicken and local flavors at Dakota Broasted in Custer, SD – a must-visit for food lovers!
Hot Dog Man
18.4 km
Experience gourmet hot dogs at Hot Dog Man in Custer - perfect for tourists seeking delicious bites amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Sage Creek Grille - Closed for the Season - Reopening Spring 2024
18.4 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, SD – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sage Creek Grille - Now Open!
18.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, South Dakota – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Maria's Mexican Restaurant
18.4 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors at Maria's Mexican Restaurant in Custer – where every meal is a festive celebration!
Baker's Bakery & Cafe
18.4 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Baker's Bakery & Cafe in Custer – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Pizza Hut
18.4 km
Enjoy delicious pizzas and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Custer - a family-friendly dining spot amidst South Dakota's scenic beauty.
Custer Deli
18.5 km
Discover the flavors of South Dakota at Custer Deli – where fresh ingredients meet delightful deli classics.
Custer's Last Stop
18.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs, delicious pizza, and refreshing brews at Custer's Last Stop - your perfect pit stop in South Dakota.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
18.5 km
Experience classic fast food and irresistible ice cream delights at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Custer, South Dakota.
Skogen Kitchen
18.5 km
Discover seasonal flavors and local ingredients at Skogen Kitchen in Custer, SD – where culinary creativity meets rustic charm.
Yesway
18.5 km
Discover convenience at Yesway in Custer: your essential stop for groceries, fuel, fast food, and local brews while exploring South Dakota's Black Hills.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blue Bell General Store
10.4 km
Explore the essence of South Dakota at Blue Bell General Store, where local charm meets adventure in Custer State Park.
Legion Lake Convenience Store
15.6 km
Discover local goods and snacks at Legion Lake Convenience Store, your gateway to exploring the beautiful Black Hills and Custer State Park.
Needles View Emporium
16.9 km
Explore unique clothing, antiques, and costume jewelry at Needles View Emporium in Custer, South Dakota, a treasure trove for every tourist.
Coolidge General Store
17.7 km
Explore Coolidge General Store in Custer, SD, for unique local goods, souvenirs, and a delightful shopping experience in the heart of the Black Hills.
Smokey The Bear wood carvings
18.2 km
Explore the unique Smokey The Bear wood carvings in Custer, South Dakota – a celebration of artistry and conservation in handcrafted wooden sculptures.
Wanda's Finds
18.3 km
Explore a unique collection of antiques and vintage treasures at Wanda's Finds in Hot Springs, South Dakota, where history comes alive.
Lynns Dakotamart
18.3 km
Experience the convenience and local charm of Lynns Dakotamart, your essential grocery stop in Custer, South Dakota.
Black Hills Power Bikes Rentals & Boutique
18.3 km
Discover the beauty of South Dakota's Black Hills with top-notch bike rentals and expert advice from Black Hills Power Bikes Rentals & Boutique.
Quilted Buffalo
18.3 km
Discover Quilted Buffalo in Custer, South Dakota - a vibrant quilt shop offering fabrics, yarns, and a community for creative crafters.
South Dakota Outdoor Shop
18.3 km
Explore the great outdoors with top-quality gear from South Dakota Outdoor Shop, your local adventure hub in Custer.
Deep Creek Gallery
18.4 km
Explore Deep Creek Gallery in Custer, SD for unique gifts, local art, and exquisite photography, perfect for creating lasting memories.
Dollar General
18.4 km
Explore an array of affordable items at Dollar General in Custer, SD - your one-stop shop for essentials, beauty supplies, and unique finds.
Fluffy Cow Outlet
18.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Fluffy Cow Outlet, a charming gift shop in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
A Walk In the Woods Gallery & Gifts
18.4 km
Explore unique gifts, local art, and handcrafted treasures at A Walk In the Woods Gallery & Gifts in Custer, South Dakota.
High Mountain Outfitters
18.4 km
Explore the great outdoors with High Mountain Outfitters, your ultimate camping store in Custer, South Dakota.