Sylvan Lake: A Serene Gem in South Dakota
Explore the serene beauty of Sylvan Lake in South Dakota's Black Hills, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Nestled in the breathtaking Black Hills of South Dakota, Sylvan Lake is a picturesque destination that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and recreational opportunities. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike, this enchanting lake offers a peaceful retreat in a stunning landscape that invites exploration and relaxation.
A brief summary to Sylvan Lake
- East Custer, South Dakota, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for a quieter experience and stunning sunrise or sunset views.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy a meal by the lakeside; there are several scenic spots perfect for dining.
- Don't forget your camera! The views around Sylvan Lake are breathtaking and perfect for photography.
- Consider renting a kayak or canoe to explore the lake from the water for a unique perspective.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure the best experience, especially for hiking.
Getting There
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Public Bus
Start at the Rapid City downtown bus terminal located at 300 6th St, Rapid City, SD 57701. Take the Route 4 bus towards the 'East Mall' and get off at the stop named 'Custer St & 5th St'. From there, transfer to the Route 9 bus towards 'Custer' and ride until you reach the 'Sylvan Lake' stop. After disembarking, follow the signs leading to Sylvan Lake, which is about a 10-minute walk.
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Bicycle Rental
Rent a bicycle from a local rental shop in Rapid City, such as Rushmore Mountain Taffy Shop located at 629 Main St, Rapid City, SD 57701. From there, head east on Main St towards 5th St. Continue straight to merge onto SD-244 E, which will lead you toward Custer State Park. The ride to Sylvan Lake is approximately 15 miles, and the route is scenic with beautiful views. Make sure to follow the biking paths and watch for traffic.
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Walking Tour
If you're up for a long hike, you can start from downtown Rapid City. Walk south on 6th St towards St Joseph St, then take a left onto St Joseph St. Continue walking south until you reach the intersection with SD-34. Follow SD-34, which will lead you towards Custer State Park. It's a 20-mile walk, so be prepared with water and snacks, as well as good walking shoes. The scenic views along the way are worth the effort!
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Taxi or Rideshare
Use a taxi or rideshare app like Uber or Lyft to get to Sylvan Lake. Simply input 'Sylvan Lake, East Custer, SD 57730' as your destination in the app. The drive will take approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic, and the driver will take you directly to the lake entrance. Make sure to confirm with the driver that you're headed to Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park.
Discover more about Sylvan Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hood Tunnel
1.1 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 Inspiration
2.4 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
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
Explore the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota, a breathtaking tribute to Native American heritage and culture, set against the stunning Black Hills.
Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch Resort
6.6 km
Experience the beauty of the Black Hills at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, your gateway to adventure and relaxation near iconic landmarks.
Horse Thief Lake
8.4 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.
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
Experience compassionate healthcare at Joy Falkenburg, M.D., your trusted family practice in Custer, South Dakota, catering to locals and tourists alike.
Custer Crazy Horse Campground
8.6 km
Discover the beauty of the Black Hills at Custer Crazy Horse Campground, your gateway to adventure and relaxation in South Dakota's stunning landscapes.
Bavarian Inn, Black Hills
8.7 km
Discover the charm of Bavarian Inn, a delightful hotel in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for exploring the stunning Black Hills and its attractions.
US Forest Service
8.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Black Hills at the US Forest Service, your gateway to outdoor adventures and breathtaking landscapes in South Dakota.
Ken's Minerals & Trading Post
8.8 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.
Miner's Cup
8.9 km
Discover the heart of Custer at Miner's Cup, where exceptional coffee and hearty breakfasts await in a cozy atmosphere.
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 enchanting world of geology at Dave's Rock Shop in Custer, South Dakota, home to a stunning collection of minerals and fossils.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mavericks cliff
0.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Mavericks Cliff in Crazy Horse, SD, featuring stunning views, accessible hiking trails, and a perfect connection with nature.
Sylvan Lake Dam and Overlook
0.2 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Sylvan Lake Dam and Overlook, a must-visit natural wonder in South Dakota's Black Hills, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Sunday Gulch Trail
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Sunday Gulch Trail, a premier hiking destination in Custer State Park, South Dakota, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Sunday Gulch Trailhead
0.3 km
Explore the stunning Sunday Gulch Trailhead in Custer State Park, a hiking paradise with breathtaking views and diverse wildlife in South Dakota.
Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting trails of Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead, a pristine hiking area in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for all nature enthusiasts.
Black Elk Peak Trailhead
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Black Elk Peak Trailhead, South Dakota's highest point, and embark on unforgettable hiking adventures surrounded by nature.
Sylvan Lake Entrance Gate (Custer State Park)
0.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and adventure of Sylvan Lake Entrance Gate in Custer State Park, a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
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 views and natural beauty of Black Elk Peak Trail, the highest point in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills region.
Needles Eye
1.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Needles Eye in South Dakota's Black Hills, where stunning rock formations and scenic trails await every nature enthusiast.
Needles Eye Tunnel
1.7 km
Explore the stunning Needles Eye Tunnel in South Dakota, where natural beauty meets remarkable engineering in the heart of the Black Hills.
Needles Highway Scenic Overlook
1.8 km
Explore the stunning vistas and unique granite formations at Needles Highway Scenic Overlook, a must-see destination in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Cathedral Spires Trailhead
2.4 km
Explore the stunning Cathedral Spires Trailhead in South Dakota's Black Hills, a must-visit destination for hiking and breathtaking views.
Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot
2.5 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot in South Dakota, where nature's artistry meets breathtaking landscapes.
Black Elk Peak
3.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and remarkable hiking at Black Elk Peak, South Dakota's highest point in the stunning Black Hills.
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.
