Explore the Majestic Black Elk Peak Trail
Experience the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Black Elk Peak Trail, the highest point in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills region.
Uncover the beauty of Black Elk Peak Trail, a premier hiking destination in South Dakota's Black Hills, offering stunning views and an unforgettable outdoor experience.
A brief summary to Black Elk Peak Trail
- Sylvan Lake - Harney, Keystone, South Dakota, 57751, US
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail can be rocky and steep in places.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially for the ascent to the peak.
- Consider visiting in the fall for stunning foliage and cooler hiking temperatures.
- Don't forget your camera; the views from the top are breathtaking and photo-worthy.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Rapid City, take SD-44 W towards Keystone. Continue on SD-44 W for about 30 miles until you reach the town of Keystone. Once in Keystone, follow the signs for US-16A S. After approximately 2 miles, look for signs for Sylvan Lake, which will be on your right. Turn onto the Sylvan Lake Road, and you will find the parking area near Sylvan Lake, which is the starting point for the Black Elk Peak Trail.
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Public Transport
For those relying on public transportation, take the Black Hills Pioneer Bus Service from Rapid City to Keystone. The bus service operates with limited schedules, so check their timetable in advance. Once in Keystone, you'll need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach Sylvan Lake, as public transport does not cover that route. The taxi ride will be approximately 2 miles and may cost around $10 to $15.
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Hiking
After parking near Sylvan Lake, locate the trailhead for Black Elk Peak Trail. The trail begins at the northwest side of the lake. There is no fee for accessing the trail, but be sure to wear appropriate hiking gear. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views as you ascend. Be prepared for a moderately challenging hike.
Discover more about Black Elk Peak Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mount Rushmore Inspiration
1.7 km
Explore the monumental Mount Rushmore Inspiration, a breathtaking testament to American history and artistry nestled in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Black Elk Lookout Marker
2.2 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.
Hood Tunnel
2.3 km
Explore the Hood Tunnel, a stunning architectural marvel nestled in South Dakota's Black Hills, offering breathtaking views and a touch of history.
Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch Resort
5.7 km
Experience the beauty of the Black Hills at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, your gateway to adventure and relaxation near iconic landmarks.
Crazy Horse
7.0 km
Explore the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota, a breathtaking tribute to Native American heritage and culture, set against the stunning Black Hills.
Horse Thief Lake
7.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Horse Thief Lake, a stunning natural oasis in South Dakota's Black Hills, perfect for swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Mount Rushmore Profile View
7.7 km
Experience the breathtaking profile view of Mount Rushmore, where history and nature unite in a stunning South Dakota landscape.
Mt Rushmore
8.0 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Mt. Rushmore, where history, artistry, and nature converge in South Dakota's majestic Black Hills.
Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
8.1 km
Explore a delightful array of souvenirs at Mount Rushmore Gift Shop, celebrating America's iconic landmark and local craftsmanship.
Mt Rushmore Information
8.2 km
Explore the iconic Mount Rushmore, where history, artistry, and breathtaking views come together in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
8.4 km
Explore the monumental Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where history and artistry converge in the heart of South Dakota's breathtaking Black Hills.
Turtle Rock
8.7 km
Discover the beauty of Turtle Rock in Custer, SD – a stunning natural landmark perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Iron Mountain Picnic Area
9.1 km
Explore the serene Iron Mountain Picnic Area in Keystone, SD, a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor fun, and peaceful escape for every nature lover.
CC Gideon Tunnel
9.1 km
Explore the CC Gideon Tunnel, a historic landmark in South Dakota's Black Hills, where nature meets history in breathtaking scenery.
1880 Train - Hill City Depot
9.2 km
Embark on a scenic journey through the Black Hills with the 1880 Train, a cherished heritage railroad in Hill City, South Dakota.
Unmissable attractions to see
Black Elk Peak Trailhead
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Black Elk Peak Trailhead in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead
1.0 km
Discover the enchanting trails of Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead, a pristine hiking area in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for all nature enthusiasts.
Little Devil's Tower Trailhead
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Little Devil's Tower Trailhead in Custer, South Dakota, where stunning views and outdoor adventure await every traveler.
Sunday Gulch Trailhead
1.0 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
1.2 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 Eye
1.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Needles Eye, a remarkable rock formation in South Dakota's Custer State Park, surrounded by stunning landscapes and natural beauty.
Needles Eye Tunnel
1.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Needles Eye Tunnel in South Dakota's Black Hills, a stunning natural wonder and a beloved tourist attraction.
Sylvan Lake
1.3 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.
Needles Highway Scenic Overlook
1.3 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Needles Highway Scenic Overlook, where granite spires meet lush forests in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot
1.3 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot in South Dakota, where nature's artistry meets breathtaking landscapes.
Sylvan Lake Dam and Overlook
1.4 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.
Sunday Gulch Trail
1.4 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Sunday Gulch Trail, a premier hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota, offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Sylvan Lake Entrance Gate (Custer State Park)
1.5 km
Explore the breathtaking vistas and outdoor adventures at Sylvan Lake Entrance Gate in Custer State Park, South Dakota's natural wonder.
Cathedral Spires Trailhead
1.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cathedral Spires Trailhead in Custer, SD, where stunning hikes meet majestic granite formations.
Black Elk Peak
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking heights of Black Elk Peak, South Dakota's highest point with stunning views and rich natural heritage.
Essential places to dine
Laughing Water Restaurant
7.0 km
Discover authentic South Dakota cuisine at Laughing Water Restaurant, where local flavors meet stunning views near Crazy Horse Memorial.
DAKOTA KITCHEN
8.1 km
Experience authentic South Dakota flavors at Dakota Kitchen near Mount Rushmore – where delicious meals meet stunning scenery.
Carvers' Café
8.2 km
Experience delightful dining with local flavors at Carvers' Café near Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Subway
8.9 km
Discover fresh and customizable meals at Subway in Hill City – the perfect pit stop during your Black Hills adventure!
1885 Steakhouse & Saloon
9.0 km
Discover Hill City's premier destination for mouthwatering steaks at 1885 Steakhouse & Saloon - where quality meets comfort.
Tin City Saloon
9.1 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
9.1 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
9.2 km
Experience the flavors of Hill City at LemonGrass Bar & Kitchen - where culinary creativity meets local charm.
Hill City Café
9.2 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
9.2 km
Experience culinary delights at Alpine Inn in Hill City, where local flavors meet warm hospitality amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Downtown Deli & Bakery
9.3 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of Hill City at Downtown Deli & Bakery—where delicious food meets friendly service in South Dakota.
Chute Rooster
9.3 km
Discover the flavors of South Dakota at Chute Rooster – where rustic charm meets culinary excellence in Hill City.
R Victor Alexander Enterprises
9.4 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
9.4 km
Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Mangiamo Wood Fired Pizza in Hill City – where every slice tells a story!
Feel Good Cafe
9.8 km
Discover delicious breakfasts at Feel Good Cafe in Custer - where great food meets friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sylvan Lake General Store & Eatery
1.4 km
Discover the charm of Sylvan Lake General Store & Eatery, where adventure meets local culture in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Boyds Antiques
7.8 km
Explore an enchanting array of antiques and collectibles at Boyds Antiques in Custer, SD—where history meets charm.
Just Dandy
9.1 km
Discover unique local gifts and handmade treasures at Just Dandy, Hill City's charming gift shop filled with art and craftsmanship.
Heart of the Hills Antiques Firearms
9.1 km
Explore the rich history of America through unique antiques and firearms at Heart of the Hills Antiques Firearms in Hill City, South Dakota.
The Mercantile by Sturgis Motorcycles Inc
9.1 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
9.1 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
9.1 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
9.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and treasures at Hilltop Souvenirs in Hill City, South Dakota - the perfect destination for memorable gifts.
Mountain Souvenirs
9.2 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
9.2 km
Explore the Jewel of the West, Hill City's premier destination for unique gifts, local crafts, and unforgettable shopping experiences in South Dakota.
Wild West Gifts
9.2 km
Explore Hill City's Wild West Gifts for unique souvenirs and local crafts that embody the spirit of South Dakota's rich heritage.
Stage Stop Leather
9.2 km
Explore Stage Stop Leather in Hill City, SD for handcrafted leather gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of the Black Hills.
Beef jerky Experience
9.2 km
Discover the ultimate jerky experience in Hill City, South Dakota, with a wide variety of flavors and local snacks.
TurtleTown
9.2 km
Discover TurtleTown in Hill City, South Dakota – a delightful candy store filled with sweets, chocolates, and gourmet treats for every palate.
The Farmer's Daughter
9.2 km
Explore the vibrant world of quilting and local art at The Farmer's Daughter, a premier gift shop in Hill City, South Dakota.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Needles
1.7 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
7.4 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
9.3 km
Explore the delightful HippieRockStar Boutique Wine & Beer Bar in Hill City, South Dakota, for an unforgettable wine and beer experience.
Cabin 13 Coffee
9.7 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
10.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Pine Social, Custer's top amusement center, offering endless fun and relaxation for all ages.
Calamity Jane Coffee Shop and Grill
10.3 km
Discover the charm of Calamity Jane Coffee Shop and Grill in Custer, South Dakota—a perfect blend of coffee, cuisine, and local souvenirs.
Gold Pan Saloon Custer
10.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Gold Pan Saloon, a charming bar in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for unwinding after exploring the Black Hills.
