Discover the Untamed Beauty of Black Elk Wilderness
Experience the serene beauty of Black Elk Wilderness, a nature preserve offering diverse trails and breathtaking landscapes in South Dakota.
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Black Elk Wilderness, a nature preserve that offers a plethora of outdoor adventures amid stunning natural beauty, ideal for hiking and exploration.
A brief summary to Black Elk Wilderness
- Keystone, South Dakota, 57751, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks for your hikes, as facilities are limited within the preserve.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
- Don't forget your camera; the stunning vistas and wildlife are perfect for photography!
- Check trail maps and conditions before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head to Keystone, SD 57751, which is the nearest town to Black Elk Wilderness. From Keystone, take SD-40 W for approximately 4 miles. You'll see signs for Black Elk Wilderness. Continue on this road until you reach the Black Elk Wilderness trailhead parking area. Note that parking may have fees, so bring some cash.
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Public Transportation
For public transportation, consider using bus services to Keystone, SD. Once you arrive in Keystone, you will need to arrange a taxi or rideshare service to cover the remaining distance to the Black Elk Wilderness trailhead, as public transport does not directly serve the wilderness area. Expect to pay for the taxi or rideshare, which could range from $10 to $30 depending on the distance.
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Hiking
If you are already in Black Hills National Forest and are looking to hike into Black Elk Wilderness, you can start at the nearest trailhead. From the trailhead parking area, follow the signs directing you to the Black Elk Wilderness trails. Make sure to carry adequate water, food, and navigation tools since some trails may be remote and not well-marked.
Discover more about Black Elk Wilderness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Black Elk Lookout Marker
0.8 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
2.8 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
4.3 km
Experience the beauty of South Dakota at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, your gateway to adventure in the Black Hills.
Horse Thief Lake
4.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Horse Thief Lake in South Dakota, a serene destination perfect for hiking, picnicking, and experiencing nature's splendor.
Hood Tunnel
4.9 km
Discover the Hood Tunnel, a stunning gateway to the natural beauty of Custer, SD, blending engineering marvel with breathtaking landscapes.
Mount Rushmore Profile View
5.0 km
Experience the breathtaking profile view of Mount Rushmore, where history and nature unite in a stunning South Dakota landscape.
Mt Rushmore
5.3 km
Experience the grandeur of Mt. Rushmore, where history meets artistry in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
5.5 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
5.6 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
6.9 km
Experience the enchanting Pig Tails Bridge in Keystone, SD, a unique architectural marvel surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Norbeck Overlook
7.1 km
Experience breathtaking views of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills at Norbeck Overlook, a scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Meeker Ranch
7.3 km
Experience the rich heritage of Meeker Ranch in Custer, South Dakota, where history and nature unite in a stunning landscape.
Scovel Johnson Tunnel
7.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Scovel Johnson Tunnel, a historical landmark offering stunning views of South Dakota's Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.
Rushmore Tramway Adventures
8.1 km
Discover thrilling adventures and breathtaking views at Rushmore Tramway Adventures, where excitement meets the stunning beauty of South Dakota's Black Hills.
The National Presidential Wax Museum
8.1 km
Explore The National Presidential Wax Museum in Keystone, SD – an engaging journey through American history with lifelike wax figures of presidents and historical icons.
Unmissable attractions to see
Black Elk Peak
0.8 km
Explore the majestic Black Elk Peak in South Dakota, offering breathtaking views, rich history, and diverse hiking trails for all adventurers.
Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot
1.9 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
2.7 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
2.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cathedral Spires Trailhead in Custer, SD, where stunning hikes meet majestic granite formations.
Needles Highway Scenic Overlook
3.1 km
Discover panoramic views and stunning natural beauty at Needles Highway Scenic Overlook in South Dakota, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Needles Eye Tunnel
3.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Needles Eye Tunnel in South Dakota's Black Hills, a stunning natural wonder and a beloved tourist attraction.
Needles Eye
3.2 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
3.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Little Devil's Tower Trailhead in Custer, South Dakota, where stunning views and outdoor adventure await every traveler.
Palmer Creek Trailhead
3.5 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and serene landscapes at Palmer Creek Trailhead in the Black Hills of South Dakota, a hiker's paradise.
Black Elk Peak Trailhead
3.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Black Elk Peak Trailhead in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead
3.7 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
3.7 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning landscapes at Sunday Gulch Trailhead in Custer State Park, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Norbeck Wildlife Preserve in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Mavericks cliff
3.9 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.
Needles Scenic View
4.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and stunning landscapes at Needles Scenic View in Custer, South Dakota, a true highlight of the Black Hills region.
Essential places to dine
DAKOTA KITCHEN
5.5 km
Experience authentic South Dakota flavors at Dakota Kitchen near Mount Rushmore – where delicious meals meet stunning scenery.
Carvers' Café
5.5 km
Experience delightful dining with local flavors at Carvers' Café near Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Red's Chicken House & BBQ
7.8 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue delights at Red's Chicken House & BBQ in Keystone, South Dakota – a must-visit culinary gem.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
7.9 km
Experience delicious fast food and irresistible ice cream at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Keystone, South Dakota - perfect for family outings.
Halleys West
8.0 km
Discover Halley's West in Keystone, SD - a family-friendly grill serving delicious local cuisine at affordable prices.
Grapes & Grinds
8.1 km
Experience the best of Keystone at Grapes & Grinds - your go-to coffee shop with unique gifts and delicious treats.
Quality Inn Keystone near Mount Rushmore
8.2 km
Discover comfort at Quality Inn Keystone near Mount Rushmore—your perfect base for exploring South Dakota's breathtaking landscapes.
Sirloin Steak Tips
8.2 km
Discover delicious steak dishes at Sirloin Steak Tips in Keystone, SD – an unforgettable dining experience surrounded by natural beauty.
Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks
8.2 km
Experience delicious burgers and cheesesteaks at Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks in Keystone, SD - where flavor meets friendly service.
Peggy's Place
8.2 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Peggy's Place in Keystone, SD – where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Boss' Pizza & Chicken Keystone
8.3 km
Discover delicious pizza and chicken dishes at Boss' Pizza & Chicken in Keystone - a culinary delight amidst South Dakota's scenic beauty.
Powder House
8.3 km
Discover the flavors of Keystone at Powder House, where delicious steaks meet warm hospitality in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Jane's Boardwalk Pizza
8.3 km
Discover delicious gourmet pizzas at Jane's Boardwalk Pizza in Keystone, SD – perfect for families after exploring nearby attractions.
Ruby House Restaurant
8.3 km
Experience the heart of American dining at Ruby House Restaurant in Keystone, SD—perfectly suited for families and food lovers alike.
Red Garter Saloon
8.3 km
Discover the heartwarming ambiance and delectable dishes at Red Garter Saloon in Keystone, SD—a perfect retreat after exploring South Dakota's wonders.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sylvan Lake General Store & Eatery
4.1 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
7.1 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
7.2 km
Explore the mesmerizing world of glass art at Black Hills Glass Blowers, a unique gift shop and gallery in Keystone, South Dakota.
South Dakota gifts and souvenirs
7.8 km
Explore the charm of South Dakota through unique gifts and souvenirs that reflect the rich culture and heritage of the Black Hills region.
Whispering PinesT-Shirts
7.8 km
Discover unique customizable t-shirts and apparel reflecting the spirit of South Dakota at Whispering Pines T-Shirts in Keystone.
Genuine Black Hills Gold-Knife and Survival Supplies
7.9 km
Explore Genuine Black Hills Gold-Knife and Survival Supplies in Keystone, SD – your ultimate destination for survival gear and exquisite jewelry.
Rattlesnake Jake's
7.9 km
Explore Rattlesnake Jake's in Keystone, South Dakota, for unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the essence of the Black Hills.
SD Gifts and Knives
7.9 km
Explore SD Gifts and Knives in Keystone, SD for unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship that capture the spirit of South Dakota.
J&L Knives
7.9 km
Discover the art of knife making at J&L Knives in Keystone, SD – an essential stop for enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Mt Rushmore T-Shirts & Co
7.9 km
Shop unique Mount Rushmore-themed apparel and souvenirs at Mt Rushmore T-Shirts & Co in Keystone, South Dakota.
SoDak CLOTHING OUTLET
7.9 km
Explore SoDak Clothing Outlet in Keystone, SD for unique fashion treasures that capture the essence of local style and affordability.
Dahl's Chainsaw Art
8.1 km
Explore the artistry of Dahl's Chainsaw Art in Keystone, SD, where unique wooden sculptures and memorable gifts await every visitor.
Maverick Trading Post
8.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Maverick Trading Post in Keystone, SD, your perfect stop for memorable gifts.
Usa Shop
8.2 km
Explore the unique treasures of Usa Shop in Keystone, South Dakota, where American culture and local craftsmanship come together.
Black Hills Souvenirs & Gifts
8.2 km
Explore Black Hills Souvenirs & Gifts for unique treasures and authentic keepsakes reflecting the beauty and culture of the Black Hills region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Needles
3.8 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
7.5 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
8.7 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
9.0 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
9.6 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
12.2 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
12.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Pine Social, Custer's top amusement center, offering endless fun and relaxation for all ages.
Sage Creek Grille - Now Open!
12.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, South Dakota, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
