10 Of The Best Hikes The Black Hills Has To Offer

The Black Hills, surrounding the Black Hills National Forest, offers some of the best hikes in South Dakota. Trails are available for hikers of every ability level showcasing spectacular natural beauty no matter which one you choose. This mountain range is considered small and isolated, rising from the Great Plains in western South Dakota and stretching into Wyoming with Black Elk Peak its highest summit reaching 7,244 feet. Native Americans and gold miners share history in these here hills. Take a hike and breathe in the surroundings of this beautiful, historic place at 10 of our favorite trails in South Dakota.

1. Sunday Gulch Trail

With its staircases taking you down into the gulch and back up, this trail has an elevation change of 797 feet. It's a bit challenging, but worthwhile, as the four-mile-long trail also has some great views. You'll find it at Sylvan Lake.

2. Horsethief Lake

You will love this easy 2.4-mile-long loop trail in Keystone. The gorgeous lake is surrounded by fragrant pines, and it's simply enchanting. Enjoy one of the best hiking trails near me in South Dakota.

3. Crow Peak

If you're willing to work for it, the view from Crow Peak is jaw-dropping. The 5.9-mile roundtrip hike has an elevation climb of 1,571 feet, so you'll definitely get a workout. This trail is located in Spearfish.

4. Flume Trail

Flume Trail follows an old mining flume, and you'll see mining artifacts and travel through tunnels along this 12.4-mile-long trail that takes you to Sheridan Lake. The trail starts near Rockerville.

5. Cathedral Spires

The Cathedral Spires at Custer State Park are the most distinctive, unique rock formations you'll see in this part of the state, and this trail takes you up close to them. It's just 1.6 miles out and back.

6. Lover's Leap

According to a heartbreaking legend, two star-crossed lovers jumped to their deaths here. The 4-mile round-trip hike follows the top of the ridge, then descends into the canyon. It's located in Custer State Park.

7. Black Elk Peak

Black Elk Peak, aka Harney Peak, is the highest point east of the Rockies with an elevation of a whopping 7,244 feet. This makes the trail tough, with an elevation climb of 1,440 feet, but it is well worth your effort.

8. Presidential Trail

A stroll down Presidential Trail at Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a must if you want some unique views of the memorial. It's a short half-mile trail that offers up plenty of photo opportunities and even some wildlife, making it one of the most kid-friendly hikes around South Dakota.

9. Roughlock Falls

Located in Spearfish Canyon, Roughlock Falls is one of the most picturesque places and one of the most scenic hikes in South Dakota. This easy hike is just 2.1 miles long, out and back, and you'll definitely want to bring your camera along.

10. George S. Mickelson Trail

The 109-mile-long George S. Mickelson Trail stretches from Deadwood to Edgemont. With 15 trailheads to choose from, you can pick a section or two to hike or bike along the entire trail. You will encounter four tunnels, and more than 100 bridges along the way.

Well, what do you think? Are you ready to head out to one of the most scenic hikes in South Dakota? If you're looking for a hike that takes you to an amazing swimming hole, you'll want to check out this trail.