Discover the Tranquility of Horse Thief Lake
Experience the serene beauty of Horse Thief Lake, a picturesque retreat in South Dakota perfect for outdoor adventures and peaceful relaxation.
A brief summary to Horse Thief Lake
- Mount Rushmore Unorganized Territory, South Dakota, US
Horse Thief Lake is a hidden gem located in the heart of South Dakota’s natural beauty, providing a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. This serene lake is surrounded by lush forests and rugged terrain, making it an ideal location for hiking, picnicking, and simply enjoying the stunning vistas. With its crystal-clear waters, Horse Thief Lake invites visitors to engage in various outdoor activities, including kayaking and fishing. The gentle sounds of nature and the stunning reflections of the towering pines on the lake's surface create an atmosphere of peace that is hard to find elsewhere. As you explore the area, you’ll discover well-maintained walking trails that meander along the lake's shores, offering multiple vantage points to take in the gorgeous scenery. These trails are suitable for all skill levels, making it easy for families and solo travelers alike to enjoy a leisurely stroll while breathing in the fresh mountain air. There are also numerous spots equipped with benches where you can sit back and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. For those looking to enhance their visit, bring along a picnic to enjoy by the water's edge or capture memorable photographs of the stunning sunrises and sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues. Horse Thief Lake is not just a destination; it's an experience that embodies the spirit of adventure and tranquility that South Dakota has to offer.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic benches along the walking trails.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the surrounding trails.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching; the area is home to diverse wildlife.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as they can change rapidly in the area.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Mount Rushmore National Memorial visitor center, head northwest towards SD-244. Once you reach SD-244, turn left and follow the road. Keep walking for about 0.6 miles until you reach the intersection with the Iron Mountain Road (SD-16A). Continue straight, and then take a right onto the Iron Mountain Road. The walk should take approximately 15-20 minutes. As you walk along Iron Mountain Road, enjoy the scenic views of the Black Hills.
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Walking
After about 1.5 miles on Iron Mountain Road, look for a trailhead on the left side of the road that leads to Horse Thief Lake. The trail is well-marked and will take you directly to the lake. It is about a 0.3-mile hike downhill to reach the lake. This segment of the journey should take around 10 minutes.
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Walking
Once you arrive at Horse Thief Lake, take some time to enjoy the surroundings. There are benches and scenic spots to relax. If you want to explore further, there are walking trails around the lake that you can follow.
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Walking
To return to Mount Rushmore from Horse Thief Lake, retrace your steps back up the trail to Iron Mountain Road. Then, head back along Iron Mountain Road to SD-244, and finally back to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial visitor center. Plan for the return trip to take about 30-40 minutes, depending on your pace.
Attractions Nearby to Horse Thief Lake
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Breezy Point Picnic Area
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Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead
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Hall of Records
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Mount Rushmore National Memorial
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Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center
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Sculptor's Studio
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Borglum Story
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Holy Terror Mini Golf
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Black Elk Wilderness
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1880 Train - Keystone Depot
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The National Presidential Wax Museum
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Rushmore Tramway Adventures
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aerial adventure park
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Turtle Rock
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Doane Robinson Tunnel (Tunnel view of Mount Rushmore)
Landmarks nearby to Horse Thief Lake
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Horse Thief Lake
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Mt Rushmore
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Mount Rushmore Profile View
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Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
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Mt Rushmore Information
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Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch Resort
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The Pig Tails
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Rushmore Helicopters Inc
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Black Elk Lookout Marker
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Abandoned Historic Keystone Mines
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Under Canvas Mount Rushmore
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Mount Rushmore Inspiration