Discover the Tranquility of Horse Thief Lake
Experience the serene beauty of Horse Thief Lake in South Dakota, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking adventure and tranquility.
Nestled in the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota, Horse Thief Lake offers visitors a serene escape into nature. With stunning views, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing, this picturesque lake is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the landscape, surrounded by towering pines and wildlife, while enjoying a day of relaxation or adventure.
A brief summary to Horse Thief Lake
- Mount Rushmore Unorganized Territory, South Dakota, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for stunning sunrise and sunset views.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots around the lake.
- Don't forget your camera; the area is rich in wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
- Check local regulations for fishing and boating to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to explore the trails around the lake.
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.
Discover more about Horse Thief Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Horse Thief Lake
0.0 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.
Mt Rushmore
2.3 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Mt. Rushmore, where history, artistry, and nature converge in South Dakota's majestic Black Hills.
Mount Rushmore Profile View
2.5 km
Experience the breathtaking profile view of Mount Rushmore, where history and nature unite in a stunning South Dakota landscape.
Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
2.8 km
Explore a delightful array of souvenirs at Mount Rushmore Gift Shop, celebrating America's iconic landmark and local craftsmanship.
Mt Rushmore Information
2.9 km
Explore the iconic Mount Rushmore, where history, artistry, and breathtaking views come together in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch Resort
4.5 km
Experience the beauty of the Black Hills at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, your gateway to adventure and relaxation near iconic landmarks.
The Pig Tails
4.6 km
Discover the whimsical charm of The Pig Tails Bridge in Keystone, South Dakota, a picturesque spot perfect for photography and relaxation amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Rushmore Helicopters Inc
4.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of South Dakota with Rushmore Helicopters Inc, offering unforgettable helicopter tours over iconic landmarks.
Black Elk Lookout Marker
5.0 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.
Abandoned Historic Keystone Mines
5.0 km
Explore the Abandoned Historic Keystone Mines in South Dakota, a journey through time revealing the rich mining history and stunning landscapes of the Black Hills.
Norbeck Overlook
5.5 km
Discover the stunning vistas and unforgettable landscapes at Norbeck Overlook in South Dakota, home to panoramic views of Mount Rushmore.
Iron Mountain Picnic Area
5.5 km
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Under Canvas Mount Rushmore
5.6 km
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Cosmos Mystery Area
6.0 km
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Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot
6.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Breezy Point Picnic Area
0.6 km
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Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead
1.2 km
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Hall of Records
2.4 km
Explore the Hall of Records in Keystone, SD – a historic landmark showcasing America's founding ideals and breathtaking Black Hills scenery.
Presidential Trail
2.6 km
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Mount Rushmore National Memorial
2.7 km
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Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center
2.7 km
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Sculptor's Studio
2.7 km
Discover the artistic legacy of Gutzon Borglum at Sculptor's Studio, a historical treasure nestled in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Borglum Story
4.4 km
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Maverick Trading Post
4.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Maverick Trading Post in Keystone, South Dakota, where every item tells a story of the Black Hills.
Black Hills Carved Signs
4.4 km
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Holy Terror Mini Golf
4.4 km
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Black Elk Wilderness
4.5 km
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1880 Train - Keystone Depot
4.5 km
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The National Presidential Wax Museum
4.5 km
Explore American history at The National Presidential Wax Museum, home to lifelike figures of presidents and iconic historical figures.
Rushmore Tramway Adventures
4.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at Rushmore Tramway Adventures in South Dakota's picturesque Black Hills.
Essential places to dine
DAKOTA KITCHEN
2.8 km
Experience authentic South Dakota flavors at Dakota Kitchen near Mount Rushmore – where delicious meals meet stunning scenery.
Carvers' Café
2.8 km
Experience delightful dining with local flavors at Carvers' Café near Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Powder House
3.9 km
Discover the flavors of Keystone at Powder House, where delicious steaks meet warm hospitality in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Red's Chicken House & BBQ
4.3 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue delights at Red's Chicken House & BBQ in Keystone, South Dakota – a must-visit culinary gem.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
4.4 km
Experience delicious fast food and irresistible ice cream at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Keystone, South Dakota - perfect for family outings.
Quality Inn Keystone near Mount Rushmore
4.4 km
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Halleys West
4.4 km
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Sirloin Steak Tips
4.4 km
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Grapes & Grinds
4.5 km
Experience the best of Keystone at Grapes & Grinds - your go-to coffee shop with unique gifts and delicious treats.
Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks
4.5 km
Experience delicious burgers and cheesesteaks at Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks in Keystone, SD - where flavor meets friendly service.
Boss' Pizza & Chicken Keystone
4.5 km
Discover delicious pizza and chicken dishes at Boss' Pizza & Chicken in Keystone - a culinary delight amidst South Dakota's scenic beauty.
Jane's Boardwalk Pizza
4.5 km
Discover delicious gourmet pizzas at Jane's Boardwalk Pizza in Keystone, SD – perfect for families after exploring nearby attractions.
Ruby House Restaurant
4.5 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
4.5 km
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Cruizzers
4.5 km
Experience mouthwatering pizzas at Cruizzers in Keystone – the perfect dining spot after exploring South Dakota's beautiful Black Hills.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Holy Terror Antiques
2.7 km
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Black Hills Glass Blowers
3.1 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
4.3 km
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Whispering PinesT-Shirts
4.3 km
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Genuine Black Hills Gold-Knife and Survival Supplies
4.3 km
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Rattlesnake Jake's
4.3 km
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SD Gifts and Knives
4.4 km
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J&L Knives
4.4 km
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Mt Rushmore T-Shirts & Co
4.4 km
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SoDak CLOTHING OUTLET
4.4 km
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Dahl's Chainsaw Art
4.4 km
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Black Hills Souvenirs & Gifts
4.4 km
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AURA Gallery and Hold
4.4 km
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Keystone Custom T-Shirts
4.5 km
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The Indians
4.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Three Forks Bar & Grill
6.9 km
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Sick-N-Twisted Brewery
6.9 km
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Needles
8.3 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.
HippieRockStar Boutique Wine & Beer Bar
8.7 km
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Silver Dollar Saloon
8.8 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
16.6 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
16.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Pine Social, Custer's top amusement center, offering endless fun and relaxation for all ages.
