Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Sylvan Lake
Experience the serene beauty and outdoor adventures at Sylvan Lake in South Dakota's stunning Custer State Park.
Nestled in the heart of South Dakota, Sylvan Lake is a serene retreat known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and abundant recreational opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation alike.
A brief summary to Sylvan Lake
- East Custer, South Dakota, US
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful sunrise and avoid crowds.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots around the lake.
- Consider bringing your kayak or paddleboard for an unforgettable experience on the water.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to explore the trails around the lake.
- Check for park events or ranger-led programs that may enhance your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Custer, head east on US-16 E (Custer's Main Street). Walk along this road for about 1.5 miles until you reach the entrance of Custer State Park. Continue straight into the park. Once inside the park, follow the signs directing you towards Sylvan Lake, which is approximately another 2 miles ahead. The lake is well-marked and visible from the road. Enjoy the scenic views as you walk!
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Biking
If you prefer biking, start from the Custer County Courthouse located at 515 Crook St. Head east on Crook St until you reach US-16 E. Turn left (east) on US-16 E and continue for about 1.5 miles. Follow the signs for Custer State Park and continue into the park. Once in the park, follow the directions to Sylvan Lake, which is about 2 miles ahead. Make sure to bike safely and watch for any vehicles.
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Hiking
For an adventurous hiking route, start at the Custer State Park Visitor Center. From the Visitor Center, take the 'Sylvan Lake Trail' which is a scenic path leading directly to Sylvan Lake. The trail is approximately 2.5 miles long and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The hike may take around 1-2 hours depending on your pace, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water!
Discover more about Sylvan Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hood Tunnel
1.1 km
Discover the Hood Tunnel, a stunning gateway to the natural beauty of Custer, SD, blending engineering marvel with breathtaking landscapes.
Mount Rushmore Inspiration
2.4 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.
Black Elk Lookout Marker
3.4 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.
Crazy Horse
5.8 km
Experience the grandeur of Crazy Horse Memorial, the world's largest mountain carving honoring Native American heritage in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch Resort
6.6 km
Experience the beauty of South Dakota at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, your gateway to adventure in the Black Hills.
Horse Thief Lake
8.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Horse Thief Lake in South Dakota, a serene destination perfect for hiking, picnicking, and experiencing nature's splendor.
Jaron Miner, D.O.
8.5 km
Experience quality healthcare in Custer with Jaron Miner, D.O. – your trusted family practice physician in the heart of South Dakota.
Joy Falkenburg, M.D.
8.5 km
Discover exceptional family healthcare in Custer with Dr. Joy Falkenburg, ensuring a worry-free visit amidst the beauty of South Dakota.
Custer Crazy Horse Campground
8.6 km
Experience the beauty of the Black Hills at Custer Crazy Horse Campground, your gateway to adventure in South Dakota's stunning landscapes.
Bavarian Inn, Black Hills
8.7 km
Discover Bavarian hospitality in the heart of the Black Hills, where comfort meets adventure for an unforgettable getaway.
US Forest Service
8.8 km
Discover the US Forest Service in Custer, SD – a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a center for conservation education amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Ken's Minerals & Trading Post
8.8 km
Explore Ken's Minerals & Trading Post in Custer SD for a unique journey through geology and natural beauty with stunning minerals and fossils.
Miner's Cup
8.9 km
Discover the charm of Miner's Cup, Custer's favorite coffee shop for breakfast and artisanal brews in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Mount Rushmore Profile View
8.9 km
Experience the breathtaking profile view of Mount Rushmore, where history and nature unite in a stunning South Dakota landscape.
Dave's Rock Shop
9.0 km
Explore the captivating world of rocks and minerals at Dave's Rock Shop in Custer, South Dakota - a treasure trove for enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mavericks cliff
0.1 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 Dam and Overlook
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Sunday Gulch Trail, a premier hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota, offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Sunday Gulch Trailhead
0.3 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning landscapes at Sunday Gulch Trailhead in Custer State Park, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and picturesque views at Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead, a haven for hikers and nature lovers in South Dakota.
Black Elk Peak Trailhead
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Black Elk Peak Trailhead in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Sylvan Lake Entrance Gate (Custer State Park)
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking vistas and outdoor adventures at Sylvan Lake Entrance Gate in Custer State Park, South Dakota's natural wonder.
Little Devil's Tower Trailhead
1.1 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 Trail
1.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Black Elk Peak Trail in South Dakota, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking adventure.
Needles Eye
1.6 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
1.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Needles Eye Tunnel in South Dakota's Black Hills, a stunning natural wonder and a beloved tourist attraction.
Needles Highway Scenic Overlook
1.8 km
Discover panoramic views and stunning natural beauty at Needles Highway Scenic Overlook in South Dakota, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Cathedral Spires Trailhead
2.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cathedral Spires Trailhead in Custer, SD, where stunning hikes meet majestic granite formations.
Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot
2.5 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
3.4 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
5.8 km
Discover authentic South Dakota cuisine at Laughing Water Restaurant, where local flavors meet stunning views near Crazy Horse Memorial.
Feel Good Cafe
8.7 km
Discover delicious breakfasts at Feel Good Cafe in Custer - where great food meets friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.
Subway
9.0 km
Discover deliciously fresh sandwiches at Subway in Custer—your perfect pit stop during South Dakota adventures.
BreakFaster
9.2 km
Experience the best breakfast in Custer at BreakFaster - where local flavors meet hearty meals in a cozy setting.
Sage Creek Grille - Closed for the Season - Reopening Spring 2024
9.2 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, SD – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sage Creek Grille - Now Open!
9.2 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
9.2 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors at Maria's Mexican Restaurant in Custer – where every meal is a festive celebration!
Hot Dog Man
9.2 km
Experience gourmet hot dogs at Hot Dog Man in Custer - perfect for tourists seeking delicious bites amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Pizza Hut
9.3 km
Enjoy delicious pizzas and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Custer - a family-friendly dining spot amidst South Dakota's scenic beauty.
Baker's Bakery & Cafe
9.3 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Baker's Bakery & Cafe in Custer – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Yesway
9.3 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.
Begging Burro Mexican Bistro
9.3 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Begging Burro Mexican Bistro in Custer - a perfect blend of flavor and culture awaits!
Skogen Kitchen
9.3 km
Discover seasonal flavors and local ingredients at Skogen Kitchen in Custer, SD – where culinary creativity meets rustic charm.
Buglin' Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar
9.3 km
Discover hearty American cuisine and lively sports entertainment at Buglin' Bull Restaurant in Custer, SD – perfect for families and adventurers alike.
Black Hills Sauce & Dough Co.
9.3 km
Discover Black Hills Sauce & Dough Co., where delicious pizza and gourmet sandwiches meet the charm of Custer, South Dakota.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sylvan Lake General Store & Eatery
0.3 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
6.5 km
Explore an enchanting array of antiques and collectibles at Boyds Antiques in Custer, SD—where history meets charm.
Smokey The Bear wood carvings
8.9 km
Explore the unique Smokey The Bear wood carvings in Custer, South Dakota – a celebration of artistry and conservation in handcrafted wooden sculptures.
Black Hills Power Bikes Rentals & Boutique
8.9 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.
Dollar General
9.0 km
Explore an array of affordable items at Dollar General in Custer, SD - your one-stop shop for essentials, beauty supplies, and unique finds.
Custer Ace Hardware
9.0 km
Explore Custer Ace Hardware for all your home improvement needs in the heart of South Dakota, where quality and community meet.
Lynns Dakotamart
9.1 km
Experience the convenience and local charm of Lynns Dakotamart, your essential grocery stop in Custer, South Dakota.
The Hills Finest
9.2 km
Discover The Hills Finest, a charming wine bar in Custer, SD, where exquisite wines, delicious food, and live music come together for an unforgettable experience.
Holy Smokes
9.2 km
Explore Holy Smokes in Custer, SD – a premier smoke shop offering a vast selection of products and unmatched expertise in a friendly atmosphere.
Fluffy Cow Outlet
9.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Fluffy Cow Outlet, a charming gift shop in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
South Dakota Outdoor Shop
9.3 km
Explore the great outdoors with top-quality gear from South Dakota Outdoor Shop, your local adventure hub in Custer.
Custer South Dakota
9.3 km
Explore Custer, South Dakota: A hidden gem with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique shopping experiences in the heart of the Black Hills.
Rushmore Custom Designs
9.3 km
Discover unique clothing and souvenirs inspired by the beauty of South Dakota at Rushmore Custom Designs in Custer.
Deep Creek Gallery
9.3 km
Explore Deep Creek Gallery in Custer, SD for unique gifts, local art, and exquisite photography, perfect for creating lasting memories.
Dakota Territory Trading Post
9.3 km
Explore the Dakota Territory Trading Post in Custer for unique antiques, local crafts, and a taste of history in the heart of South Dakota.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Needles
1.6 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
7.7 km
Discover the authentic Western experience at Silver Dollar Saloon in Hill City, SD, featuring local brews, hearty bites, and live entertainment.
Cabin 13 Coffee
8.7 km
Experience the warmth and flavor of Custer at Cabin 13 Coffee, your go-to spot for artisanal brews and a cozy atmosphere.
Gold Pan Saloon Custer
9.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Gold Pan Saloon, a charming bar in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for unwinding after exploring the Black Hills.
