Black Elk Peak Hike: Trail Guide to the Highest Point in South Dakota
Hiking the Black Elk Peak Trail is considered by many to be the best hike in Custer State Park. The 7.5-mile loop starts near Sylvan Lake and winds through the Black Forest Wilderness area. At the summit, hikers stand on a 7,242-foot granite peak—the highest point in South Dakota.
Perched on top of the mountain sits a historic stone fire tower structure that was completed by the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp) in 1940. The stately structure is fun to explore and adds a unique sense of adventure to this outing.
Although the fire tower is no longer used in an official capacity, it is open daily for all to enjoy.
When standing in the tower, hikers enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of the Black Hills.
Black Elk Peak Hike Overview
Where Is Black Elk Peak Located?
Black Elk Peak is located in Custer State Park near the Sylvan Lake Day Use Area, just north of SD 87.
The parking area here is shared by hikers, picnickers, and other park visitors, so parking can be competitive.
The day we were there, we found the parking to be suitable but busy. Arriving early, we started hiking soon after we got there. We had no issues finding a spot to park, however by the time we returned, the parking lot was pretty full.
Black Elk Peak Trail Map and Route Options
Because the Black Elk Peak hike is a loop, there are two different trailheads, both located near the main parking area.
Trail 9 – Trail 9 – The easiest and most commonly used route to the fire tower. The trailhead is located near the footbridge leading to the swim beach. Hikers who complete the loop and start here are walking in a clockwise direction on the trail.
Trail 4 – Located at the southwest corner of the parking area, this route is steeper and more challenging. For hikers who want to access both Little Devil’s Tower and the Black Elk Fire Tower, this is the best way to go (Cathedral Trail can be accessed from here too).
If you complete the loop you will hike on both trails 9 and 4.
Gail and I definitely wanted to hike the loop and decided to start at Trail 4 (counter clockwise). We wanted to hike the hard stuff first and finish on Trail 9 which was a downhill cruise from the fire tower.
How Long Is the Black Elk Peak Hike?
- Distance (~7.5 miles)
- Typical time (3–4 hours)
How Difficult Is the Black Elk Peak Hike?
The Black Elk Peak hike is considered moderate, combining a steady climb with rocky terrain that most hikers can manage at a comfortable pace.
Reaching the Summit of Black Elk Peak
The hike is perfect for solo hikers, couples, and small groups who enjoy unique and beautiful places.
While much of the trail feels manageable, there are several steep and rocky sections on the climb toward the summit. Hikers need to be reasonably fit to complete the trail. Be sure to wear proper footwear that grip rock well.
The final quarter mile on the trail to the fire tower does level out but has some rock stairs to climb as hikers approach the tower.
Historic Fire Tower on Black Elk Peak
The fire tower stopped us in our tracks when we first saw it. Somehow, it seemed out of place yet perfectly suited to its environment. Instinctively, we wanted to explore the structure—and it did not disappoint.
Stone steps led the way to the tower, zig-zagging toward the rustic entrance. As we approached, we admired the architectural beauty of the building. To record the moment, we slowed our pace and snapped some pictures.
It was a genuinely fun and memorable place to explore.
Once inside the building, we instinctively looked upward toward the ceiling, where a set of stairs led to an observation deck. Without hesitation, we climbed the steps, rewarded almost immediately with extraordinary views of the Black Hills stretching in every direction.
After spending time at the top, we returned to the lower levels of the tower and wandered from room to room, imagining where the kitchen, living area, and bedrooms might have been.
What must it have been like to live on top of Black Elk Peak, miles away from anyone or anything?
There was a quiet sense of jealousy—a longing to be one of those who stayed there for weeks at a time, watching for forest fires and simply passing the days in solitude.
Lunch on Top of Black Elk Peak
On the backside of the fire tower is a patio and a stairway leading down to the top of the peak. The summit of Black Elk Peak is made of natural granite, and the texture of the rock is so irregular that it can be a bit difficult to walk on. We moved carefully and deliberately as we made our way across the summit.
Scanning the area at the top, we noticed colorful bandanas strung around the summit—mostly attached to poles and trees, often in the oddest places. Left behind by hikers as a marker of triumph, displaying bandanas here is apparently a popular tradition.
For us, the best thing to do was find a quiet spot with a view. The only markers we needed to remind ourselves of our time on the mountaintop were pictures and memories
It was time to rest.
We took our backpacks off and pulled out the light lunch we had packed.
The feeling of sitting together on top of the world was both inspiring and humbling.
It was the perfect place for a lunch.
Tips for Hiking Black Elk Peak Trail
- Afternoon thunderstorms with hail, strong winds, and rain are common during the summer months—start early and keep an eye on the forecast.
- Wear sturdy shoes with good traction; the trail includes rocky and uneven terrain.
- Pack extra layers, as conditions at the summit are often windier and colder than at the trailhead.
- Carry at least one quart of water per person, more on warm days.
- There are no restrooms located along the trail.
- Pack out all trash and help keep the trail clean for others.
What Are Other Enjoyable Activities in Custer State Park?
Custer State Park is an incredible destination in the heart of South Dakota’s Black Hills. Without a doubt, it ranks among the premier state-run natural areas in the country—and it’s a place we would happily return to.
Other activities we enjoyed in Custer State Park include:
Do You Need a Pass at Custer State Park?
There are fees required to spend time in Custer State Park. However, vehicles traveling non-stop through the park on US 16A do not need an entrance pass.
Pass options include:
- Daily:
- 7-Day License: $20 per vehicle
- Motorcoach License: $3 per person, per visit
- Annual:
- $36 first vehicle
- $18 second vehicle
- $80 transferable license
Summary
Overall, our time at Custer State Park was incredible, and the day we spent hiking Black Elk Peak was our favorite. The most important part of this hike is being prepared. While it’s considered a moderate hike, there are several steep sections that can be challenging.
We encountered hikers of all ages and skill levels along the trail, though not everyone chose to continue all the way to the summit. The full loop typically takes 3–4 hours to complete and is one of the more popular hikes in Custer State Park.
Take your time, come prepared, and enjoy every step of the journey.
If we ever make it there, we will hike the trails in the same direction you did. Wouldn’t want to miss the panoramic views from the fire tower and will always prefer a loop over an out-and-back.
You can add Little Devil’s Tower to the loop which adds a couple miles to the overall or do it as a separate hike (next day) like we did. We combined Catherdal Tower and Little Devil ‘s Tower on our second outing.
Thank you, Steven, will do.