Discover the Tranquility of Legion Lake
Experience the serene beauty and recreational wonders of Legion Lake in South Dakota's breathtaking Black Hills.
Legion Lake, nestled in the heart of South Dakota, offers a serene escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With picturesque views and a plethora of recreational activities, it's an ideal destination for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure alike.
A brief summary to Legion Lake
- East Custer, South Dakota, US
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good picnic spot by the lake.
- Bring your own kayak or paddleboard for a more enjoyable experience on the water.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure a pleasant day outdoors.
- Consider camping overnight to fully appreciate the beauty of the lake at sunrise and sunset.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Mount Rushmore National Memorial visitor center, exit the building and head southeast on SD-244. Walk along the designated walkway towards the parking area. Continue walking past the parking area, and you will soon see signs for the hiking trails. Follow the signs toward the Legion Lake area, which is approximately a 1.5-mile walk. The path will take you through beautiful forested areas. Make sure to stick to the marked trails for safety.
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Biking
If you have access to a bicycle, you can rent one from local bike rental shops in Mount Rushmore. Start at the Mount Rushmore visitor center and take SD-244 heading southeast. There are bike-friendly paths leading to Legion Lake. The ride is about 1.5 miles and offers scenic views along the way. Keep an eye out for trail markers that guide you to Legion Lake.
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Hiking
For those who enjoy hiking, there are trails that lead directly to Legion Lake. Start at the Mount Rushmore visitor center and follow the trail signs for the hiking paths leading southeast. The hiking trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and will take you through scenic wooded areas. Ensure you carry water and wear appropriate hiking shoes for a comfortable journey.
Discover more about Legion Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glen Erin School Historic Site
4.8 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.
Hazelrodt Picnic Area
6.0 km
Discover the tranquility of Hazelrodt Picnic Area in Custer, SD, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Welcome to Custer State Park Sign
9.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Custer State Park, a must-visit destination in South Dakota's Black Hills region.
Ken's Minerals & Trading Post
10.0 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.
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel
10.2 km
Experience the Ultimate Comfort at Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast in Custer, SD – Your Gateway to the Scenic Black Hills and Outdoor Adventures.
Custer Bark Park
10.3 km
Explore the pet-friendly Custer Bark Park in South Dakota, where dogs can run free and socialize in a welcoming natural landscape.
Pageant Hill
10.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pageant Hill in Custer, South Dakota, a perfect venue for events and a scenic retreat for nature lovers.
Jaron Miner, D.O.
10.4 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.
10.4 km
Experience compassionate healthcare at Joy Falkenburg, M.D., your trusted family practice in Custer, South Dakota, catering to locals and tourists alike.
Dave's Rock Shop
10.4 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.
Miner's Cup
10.5 km
Discover the heart of Custer at Miner's Cup, where exceptional coffee and hearty breakfasts await in a cozy atmosphere.
Pizza Mill
10.6 km
Discover the best pizza in Custer, South Dakota, at Pizza Mill, where every bite is a taste of local flavor and comfort.
Iron Mountain Picnic Area
10.7 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.
Mount Rushmore Inspiration
10.8 km
Explore the monumental Mount Rushmore Inspiration, a breathtaking testament to American history and artistry nestled in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Old Pine Social
10.8 km
Discover the ultimate entertainment experience at Old Pine Social, where games, drinks, and good times await in Custer, South Dakota.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lenker Rock
0.1 km
Explore Lenker Rock, a captivating historical landmark in beautiful Custer, South Dakota, where nature and heritage intertwine.
Badger Hole Historical Site
0.5 km
Explore the enchanting Badger Hole Historical Site, a tribute to poet Badger Clark amid the stunning landscapes of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Heddy Draw Overlook - s
1.6 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife at Heddy Draw Overlook in Custer, South Dakota, a scenic gem in the Black Hills.
Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower
2.3 km
Discover the majestic views and historical charm of Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower in Custer, South Dakota.
Custer State Park Mt Coolidge
2.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Custer State Park Mt Coolidge, a natural paradise in the heart of South Dakota.
Custer State Park
5.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park in South Dakota, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Blue Bell Stables
5.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Custer State Park on horseback at Blue Bell Stables, where adventure and nature come together.
Hayride & Chuckwagon Cookout at Blue Bell Lodge
5.3 km
Experience the charm of the Old West at Blue Bell Lodge with a hayride and chuckwagon cookout in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
West Entrance Station (Custer State Park)
5.3 km
Experience breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife at the West Entrance Station of Custer State Park in South Dakota.
Gordon Stockade Historical Landmark
5.6 km
Explore the Gordon Stockade Historical Landmark in Custer, SD, a captivating site of historical significance and natural beauty.
Black Hills Playhouse
5.8 km
Discover the enchanting Black Hills Playhouse, a premier performing arts theater in South Dakota, where captivating shows meet stunning natural beauty.
Custer State Park - Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
6.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park - Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, a captivating destination for all nature lovers.
Blue Bell Entrance Station (Custer State Park)
6.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife at Custer State Park's Blue Bell Entrance Station, a must-visit destination in South Dakota.
Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center
6.3 km
Discover the wonders of nature and education at the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center in Custer State Park, South Dakota.
Lovers Leap Trailhead
6.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife at Lovers Leap Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota.
Essential places to dine
Dockside Grill
0.2 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
6.5 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine in the heart of Custer State Park at the State Game Lodge Restaurant—where nature meets culinary delight.
Subway
10.5 km
Discover deliciously fresh sandwiches at Subway in Custer—your perfect pit stop during South Dakota adventures.
Sage Creek Grille - Closed for the Season - Reopening Spring 2024
10.9 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, SD – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Hot Dog Man
11.0 km
Experience gourmet hot dogs at Hot Dog Man in Custer - perfect for tourists seeking delicious bites amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Maria's Mexican Restaurant
11.0 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors at Maria's Mexican Restaurant in Custer – where every meal is a festive celebration!
Pizza Hut
11.0 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
11.0 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Baker's Bakery & Cafe in Custer – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Skogen Kitchen
11.1 km
Discover seasonal flavors and local ingredients at Skogen Kitchen in Custer, SD – where culinary creativity meets rustic charm.
Custer Deli
11.1 km
Discover the flavors of South Dakota at Custer Deli – where fresh ingredients meet delightful deli classics.
Yesway
11.2 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.
Custer's Last Stop
11.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs, delicious pizza, and refreshing brews at Custer's Last Stop - your perfect pit stop in South Dakota.
The Custer Beacon
11.2 km
Discover delicious dining at The Custer Beacon - where great food meets live music in scenic South Dakota.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
11.3 km
Experience classic fast food and irresistible ice cream delights at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Custer, South Dakota.
Hjem A.M.
11.3 km
Discover Hjem A.M., Custer's favorite breakfast spot offering delicious dishes made from local ingredients in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Legion Lake Convenience Store
0.2 km
Discover local goods and snacks at Legion Lake Convenience Store, your gateway to exploring the beautiful Black Hills and Custer State Park.
Blue Bell General Store
5.2 km
Explore the essence of South Dakota at Blue Bell General Store, where local charm meets adventure in Custer State Park.
Coolidge General Store
6.0 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.
Needles View Emporium
9.6 km
Explore unique clothing, antiques, and costume jewelry at Needles View Emporium in Custer, South Dakota, a treasure trove for every tourist.
Smokey The Bear wood carvings
10.2 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
10.4 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
10.6 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
10.7 km
Explore Custer Ace Hardware for all your home improvement needs in the heart of South Dakota, where quality and community meet.
Lynns Dakotamart
10.7 km
Experience the convenience and local charm of Lynns Dakotamart, your essential grocery stop in Custer, South Dakota.
South Dakota Outdoor Shop
10.9 km
Explore the great outdoors with top-quality gear from South Dakota Outdoor Shop, your local adventure hub in Custer.
Fluffy Cow Outlet
10.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Fluffy Cow Outlet, a charming gift shop in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Quilted Buffalo
10.9 km
Discover Quilted Buffalo in Custer, South Dakota - a vibrant quilt shop offering fabrics, yarns, and a community for creative crafters.
Deep Creek Gallery
10.9 km
Explore Deep Creek Gallery in Custer, SD for unique gifts, local art, and exquisite photography, perfect for creating lasting memories.
The Hills Finest
11.0 km
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Holy Smokes
11.0 km
Explore Holy Smokes in Custer, SD – a premier smoke shop offering a vast selection of products and unmatched expertise in a friendly atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Needles
11.0 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.
Needles Eye Tunnel
11.2 km
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