Discover the Majestic Black Elk Lookout Marker
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Black Elk Lookout Marker in South Dakota's Black Hills, a must-visit for every traveler.
Perched high in the Black Hills, the Black Elk Lookout Marker offers breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's rich history. This historical landmark is a must-visit for tourists seeking both natural beauty and cultural significance.
A brief summary to Black Elk Lookout Marker
- Sylvan Lake - Harney, Keystone, South Dakota, 57751, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be rocky and steep.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at the lookout while taking in the panoramic views.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are truly stunning and worth capturing.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are traveling by car, navigate to Sylvan Lake in Keystone, SD. From Keystone, take SD-244 East for approximately 2 miles. Look for the signs for Black Elk Peak (formerly Harney Peak). You will find a designated parking area at the trailhead. The parking area is free, but it can fill up quickly during peak tourist seasons. Once parked, follow the trail signs leading to Black Elk Peak. The trail is approximately 3.5 miles and may take 1.5 to 2 hours to hike, depending on your pace.
-
Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, look for the local shuttle service operating in the Black Hills area, which can take you from Rapid City or other nearby towns to Keystone. Once in Keystone, you will need to use a rideshare service or taxi to reach Sylvan Lake, as public transportation does not go directly to the trailhead. From Sylvan Lake, follow the marked trail to Black Elk Peak, which is about a 3.5-mile hike.
-
Hiking
If you are already in the vicinity of Black Elk Peak and wish to hike to the Black Elk Lookout Marker, begin your hike from the trailhead located at Sylvan Lake. The trail is well-marked. Be prepared for a moderately strenuous hike with a steady incline. Bring water, snacks, and wear appropriate hiking shoes. The lookout offers stunning 360-degree views at the top, making the hike worthwhile.
Discover more about Black Elk Lookout Marker
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Black Elk Lookout Marker
0.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Black Elk Lookout Marker in South Dakota's Black Hills, a must-visit for every traveler.
Mount Rushmore Inspiration
2.7 km
Explore the monumental beauty of Mount Rushmore Inspiration, an iconic tribute to America's heritage nestled in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch Resort
4.0 km
Experience the beauty of South Dakota at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, your gateway to adventure in the Black Hills.
Hood Tunnel
4.3 km
Discover the Hood Tunnel, a stunning gateway to the natural beauty of Custer, SD, blending engineering marvel with breathtaking landscapes.
Horse Thief Lake
5.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Horse Thief Lake in South Dakota, a serene destination perfect for hiking, picnicking, and experiencing nature's splendor.
Mount Rushmore Profile View
5.7 km
Experience the breathtaking profile view of Mount Rushmore, where history and nature unite in a stunning South Dakota landscape.
Mt Rushmore
6.0 km
Experience the grandeur of Mt. Rushmore, where history meets artistry in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
6.2 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at the Mount Rushmore Gift Shop, your gateway to memorable keepsakes from America's iconic landmark.
Mt Rushmore Information
6.3 km
Explore Mount Rushmore, an iconic American monument featuring the monumental faces of four presidents carved into the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
The Pig Tails
7.7 km
Experience the enchanting Pig Tails Bridge in Keystone, SD, a unique architectural marvel surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Doane Robinson Tunnel (Tunnel view of Mount Rushmore)
7.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views of Mount Rushmore from the historic Doane Robinson Tunnel, a hidden gem in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Norbeck Overlook
7.9 km
Experience breathtaking views of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills at Norbeck Overlook, a scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Scovel Johnson Tunnel
8.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Scovel Johnson Tunnel, a historical landmark offering stunning views of South Dakota's Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.
Crazy Horse Memorial
8.1 km
Experience the grandeur of Crazy Horse Memorial, a cultural center and historical landmark celebrating Native American heritage in the heart of South Dakota.
Unmissable attractions to see
Black Elk Wilderness
0.8 km
Discover the natural wonders of Black Elk Wilderness in South Dakota, a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot
1.8 km
Explore the stunning Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot in Custer, SD, and immerse yourself in breathtaking views and exhilarating hiking trails amidst nature's beauty.
Black Elk Peak Trail
2.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Black Elk Peak Trail in South Dakota, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking adventure.
Cathedral Spires Trailhead
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cathedral Spires Trailhead in Custer, SD, where stunning hikes meet majestic granite formations.
Needles Highway Scenic Overlook
2.8 km
Discover panoramic views and stunning natural beauty at Needles Highway Scenic Overlook in South Dakota, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Palmer Creek Trailhead
2.9 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and serene landscapes at Palmer Creek Trailhead in the Black Hills of South Dakota, a hiker's paradise.
Needles Eye Tunnel
2.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Needles Eye Tunnel in South Dakota's Black Hills, a stunning natural wonder and a beloved tourist attraction.
Needles Eye
2.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Needles Eye, a remarkable rock formation in South Dakota's Custer State Park, surrounded by stunning landscapes and natural beauty.
Little Devil's Tower Trailhead
3.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Little Devil's Tower Trailhead in Custer, South Dakota, where stunning views and outdoor adventure await every traveler.
Black Elk Peak Trailhead
3.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Black Elk Peak Trailhead in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead
3.2 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and picturesque views at Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead, a haven for hikers and nature lovers in South Dakota.
Sunday Gulch Trailhead
3.2 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning landscapes at Sunday Gulch Trailhead in Custer State Park, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
Mavericks cliff
3.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Mavericks Cliff in Crazy Horse, South Dakota, a hiking area offering stunning views and trails for all skill levels in the Black Hills.
Sylvan Lake
3.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sylvan Lake in South Dakota's Black Hills, a perfect spot for outdoor adventures and relaxation amidst nature's splendor.
Sylvan Lake Dam and Overlook
3.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene nature at Sylvan Lake Dam and Overlook in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills, a perfect escape for all nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
DAKOTA KITCHEN
6.2 km
Experience authentic South Dakota flavors at Dakota Kitchen near Mount Rushmore – where delicious meals meet stunning scenery.
Carvers' Café
6.2 km
Experience delightful dining with local flavors at Carvers' Café near Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Subway
8.0 km
Discover fresh and customizable meals at Subway in Hill City – the perfect pit stop during your Black Hills adventure!
1885 Steakhouse & Saloon
8.1 km
Discover Hill City's premier destination for mouthwatering steaks at 1885 Steakhouse & Saloon - where quality meets comfort.
Chute Rooster
8.1 km
Discover the flavors of South Dakota at Chute Rooster – where rustic charm meets culinary excellence in Hill City.
Tin City Saloon
8.1 km
Discover Tin City Saloon in Hill City: A cozy bar & grill offering delicious food and drinks amidst South Dakota's breathtaking landscapes.
Bumpin Buffalo Bar and Grill
8.2 km
Discover the warmth of family dining at Bumpin Buffalo Bar and Grill in Hill City - where great food meets stunning Black Hills views.
LemonGrass Bar & Kitchen
8.2 km
Experience the flavors of Hill City at LemonGrass Bar & Kitchen - where culinary creativity meets local charm.
Hill City Café
8.2 km
Discover authentic American cuisine at Hill City Café – your cozy dining destination in the heart of South Dakota's scenic Black Hills.
Alpine Inn
8.2 km
Experience culinary delights at Alpine Inn in Hill City, where local flavors meet warm hospitality amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Downtown Deli & Bakery
8.3 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of Hill City at Downtown Deli & Bakery—where delicious food meets friendly service in South Dakota.
R Victor Alexander Enterprises
8.3 km
Experience the best of Hill City's culinary scene at R Victor Alexander Enterprises with locally sourced dishes and inviting atmosphere.
Mangiamo Wood Fired Pizza
8.4 km
Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Mangiamo Wood Fired Pizza in Hill City – where every slice tells a story!
Red's Chicken House & BBQ
8.5 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue delights at Red's Chicken House & BBQ in Keystone, South Dakota – a must-visit culinary gem.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
8.6 km
Experience delicious fast food and irresistible ice cream at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Keystone, South Dakota - perfect for family outings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sylvan Lake General Store & Eatery
3.6 km
Discover the charm of Sylvan Lake General Store & Eatery, where adventure meets local culture in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Holy Terror Antiques
7.6 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Holy Terror Antiques, a must-visit destination for antique lovers and collectors in Keystone, South Dakota.
Black Hills Glass Blowers
7.8 km
Explore the mesmerizing world of glass art at Black Hills Glass Blowers, a unique gift shop and gallery in Keystone, South Dakota.
Heart of the Hills Antiques Firearms
8.1 km
Explore the rich history of America through unique antiques and firearms at Heart of the Hills Antiques Firearms in Hill City, South Dakota.
Just Dandy
8.1 km
Discover unique local gifts and handmade treasures at Just Dandy, Hill City's charming gift shop filled with art and craftsmanship.
The Mercantile by Sturgis Motorcycles Inc
8.1 km
Discover stylish motorcycle apparel and accessories at The Mercantile by Sturgis Motorcycles Inc in Hill City, SD - a haven for bike lovers.
Things That Rock
8.1 km
Discover unique gems, beads, and handcrafted jewelry at Things That Rock in Hill City, South Dakota – a must-visit gift shop for every traveler.
The Handbag Store
8.1 km
Explore unique handbags and accessories at The Handbag Store in Hill City, a boutique that captures the essence of style and charm in South Dakota.
Hilltop Souvenirs
8.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and treasures at Hilltop Souvenirs in Hill City, South Dakota - the perfect destination for memorable gifts.
Mountain Souvenirs
8.2 km
Explore the charm of Hill City with unique gifts and souvenirs at Mountain Souvenirs, capturing the essence of the Black Hills.
Jewel of the West
8.2 km
Explore the Jewel of the West, Hill City's premier destination for unique gifts, local crafts, and unforgettable shopping experiences in South Dakota.
Stage Stop Leather
8.2 km
Explore Stage Stop Leather in Hill City, SD for handcrafted leather gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of the Black Hills.
Wild West Gifts
8.2 km
Explore Hill City's Wild West Gifts for unique souvenirs and local crafts that embody the spirit of South Dakota's rich heritage.
Beef jerky Experience
8.2 km
Discover the ultimate jerky experience in Hill City, South Dakota, with a wide variety of flavors and local snacks.
TurtleTown
8.2 km
Discover TurtleTown in Hill City, South Dakota – a delightful candy store filled with sweets, chocolates, and gourmet treats for every palate.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Needles
3.5 km
Explore the stunning Needles of South Dakota, a breathtaking mountain peak known for its unique rock formations and rich wildlife, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Silver Dollar Saloon
6.9 km
Discover the authentic Western experience at Silver Dollar Saloon in Hill City, SD, featuring local brews, hearty bites, and live entertainment.
HippieRockStar Boutique Wine & Beer Bar
8.3 km
Explore the delightful HippieRockStar Boutique Wine & Beer Bar in Hill City, South Dakota, for an unforgettable wine and beer experience.
Sick-N-Twisted Brewery
8.9 km
Discover the art of brewing at Sick-N-Twisted Brewery, where craft beer meets delicious cuisine in a cozy Hill City atmosphere.
Three Forks Bar & Grill
9.5 km
Experience the culinary delight of Three Forks Bar & Grill in Hill City, SD – where great food meets a vibrant bar atmosphere.
Cabin 13 Coffee
11.9 km
Experience the warmth and flavor of Custer at Cabin 13 Coffee, your go-to spot for artisanal brews and a cozy atmosphere.
Old Pine Social
12.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Pine Social, Custer's top amusement center, offering endless fun and relaxation for all ages.
