Underrated National Forest Hikes in South Dakota That Rival the Skyline Trail Loop

When you think of South Dakota, images of Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the sound of the slogan "Great Faces, Great Places" probably pop into your head. However, there's so much more to this midwestern gem. While the state is home to both Badlands National Park and Wind Cave National Park, its national forests deserve just as much love. 

But one of the most underrated parks is the Black Hills National Forest. So we've curated a list of hikes in this South Dakota national forest that you've got to add to your bucket list. Don't let their presence outside of a national park fool you; these hikes are just as rewarding as some of our favorite national park hikes.

1. Devil's Bathtub

A quick 15-minute drive from Spearfish, South Dakota, Devil's Bathtub is a short and sweet hike. While the 1.6-mile hike has an elevation gain of less than 200 feet, it does require some technical skills to navigate some light scrambling over boulders. When you reach the top of the trail, you'll be treated to a small waterfall that fills an area that looks like, you guessed it, a bathtub. 

At times, the path can be a bit hard to decipher, but orange ribbons mark the trail to help you find your way. It's important to note that the trail can be a bit slippery in the springtime when the water is flowing more heavily.

2. Spring Creek and Flume Trail Loop

Located 20 minutes from the rustic community of Hill City, South Dakota, the 4.5-mile Spring Creek and Flume Trail Loop is an adventurous hike. With more than 400 feet in elevation gain, the loop takes hikers over bridges, through narrow sections, and over rocky patches. After tackling cliffside vistas and tall ponderosa pine trees, you'll be rewarded with a jaw-dropping view of Sheridan Lake. 

3. Black Elk Peak Loop

Perhaps the most well-known hike in South Dakota, Black Elk Peak Loop is well worth a trip to the Black Hills. While there are a variety of starting points for this trail, this looped route takes hikers across more than 7 miles and nearly 1,500 feet in elevation gain.

When you reach the top of this trail, you'll be sitting at the highest U.S. elevation east of the Rocky Mountains. While challenging, Black Elk Peak Loop is one of the must-do experiences in South Dakota. If you'd like to walk right out of your stay and onto the trail, you'll find an additional trailhead just across from the Mount Rushmore Resort and Lodge at Palmer Gulch.

4. Buzzards Roost

Buzzards Roost is a relatively easy 2.9-mile route that's ideal for a short hike, walk, or mountain bike ride. The loop has an elevation gain of just above 470 feet. The hike is mostly forested and takes you through fields of wildflowers, rocky cliffs, and to scenic overlooks. It's a popular option for those traveling with children who are looking for a family-friendly way to get outside together.