Best Custer State Park Hiking Trails

In the heart of South Dakota’s Black Hills, Custer State Park offers some of the most stunning and diverse hiking trails in the region. Whether you’re a hiker seeking a challenging ascent or a family looking for a leisurely nature walk, this park has something to suit everyone. Custer State Park brings together the best of many national parks, such as the bison in Yellowstone, the incredible forested hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, and the rock formations in Moab (Arches National Park), and the nearby Badlands National Park. Here’s a guide to the best hiking trails in Custer State Park that will lead you through ancient granite peaks, serene lakes, and lush forests.

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Easy Hiking Trails

1. Grace Coolidge Creekside Trail

• Distance: 3.9 miles round trip (5 miles from visitor’s center to Grace Coolidge campground)
• Elevation gain: 223 ft
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dogs: allowed, on leash
• Trailhead: Grace Coolidge Campground, State Game Lodge Campground
• Features: This pleasant and paved creekside trail is perfect for those looking for a leisurely walk or bike ride with minimal elevation gain. The path follows along Grace Coolidge Creek and passes through open meadows and ponderosa pine forests, offering plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and fishing. There isn’t too much shade on the trail, so it may make sense to avoid walking this in the heat of the day.
• Places to Eat: The Coolidge General Store is in the middle of the trail, offering quick bites to eat and groceries. For a sit down lunch, visit the State Game Lodge (also mid-trail).

2. Legion Lake Trail

• Distance: 0.7 mile round trip
• Elevation gain: 39 ft.
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dogs: allowed, on leash
• Features: A scenic and easy trail that wraps around Legion Lake. This hike is particularly good for families and offers excellent opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and picnicking. The tranquil waters and surrounding forest create a peaceful hiking experience.
• Places to Eat: The Legion’s Lake General Store backs to the trail, offering lunch, ice cream, and groceries.

3. Sylvan Lake Shore Trail

• Distance: 1.1 mile
• Elevation gain: 82 ft.
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dogs: allowed, on leash
• Trailhead: Sylvan Lake (you can start at any point along the lake, though parking is in the day use area and near the general store)
• Features: Ideal for families and casual walkers, the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail encircles the beautiful Sylvan Lake, known for its clear waters and striking rock formations. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained (some paved, some dirt), making it accessible for almost everyone, including those with young children. There is one section on the back side of the rocks that has some stairs down and then up again on the other side. It leads to a waterfall, but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
• Places to Eat: The Sylvan Lake General Store is a few minutes from the trail, offering quick bites to eat, ice cream, and groceries. For a sit down lunch, visit the Sylvan Lake Lodge.

Moderate Hiking Trails

4. Black Elk Peak (formerly Harney Peak)

• Distance: 7.1 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 1,469 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Trailhead: Black Elk Peak Trailhead (just behind Sylvan Lake)
• Dogs: allowed, on leash
• Description: As the highest point in South Dakota, Black Elk Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views from its summit at 7,244 feet. The trail goes through ponderosa pine forests and past rugged granite formations. Once you reach the historic stone fire lookout tower at the top, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree view that spans the surrounding Black Hills and beyond. This hike is easily combined with Cathedral Spires and Little Devil’s Tower Spur. You can easily do the hike from the Cathedral Spires trailhead as well, reducing the overall distance (and seeing Cathedral Spires at the same time). Black Elk Peak was renamed fairly recently from Harney Peak to honor Black Elk, a Lakota Sioux medicine man.
• Places to Eat: The Sylvan Lake General Store is a few minutes from the trail, offering quick bites to eat, ice cream, and groceries. For a sit down lunch, visit the Sylvan Lake Lodge.

5. Cathedral Spires Trail

• Distance: 1.6 miles roundtrip
• Elevation gain: 488 ft.
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dogs: allowed, on leash
• Trailhead: Cathedral Spires Trailhead, on the Needles Highway near Sylvan Lake
• Features: The Cathedral Spires Trail offers a relatively short but rewarding hike. The parking area is at one of the hairpin turns on the Needles Highway. It runs through pine forests and leads to some of the most spectacular rock formations in the park, the Cathedral Spires. These towering granite pillars are a favorite among rock climbers and photographers alike. The trail ends at a small canyon that offers great views of Black Elk Peak and the surrounding spires. Some people mention that it is not worth walking to the end of the canyon. The views from the end are not as impressive as those when you enter the canyon. However, the views as you are walking back through the canyon to the trail are truly impressive. At the turn off to the canyon, you’ll see signs for Trail #4, which leads to the Little Devil’s Tower Trail and the Black Elk Peak.
• Places to Eat: The Sylvan Lake General Store is a few minutes from the trail, offering quick bites to eat, ice cream, and groceries. For a sit down lunch, visit the Sylvan Lake Lodge.

6. Lovers Leap Trail

• Distance: 4.2 miles
• Elevation gain: 626 ft.
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dogs: allowed, on leash
• Trailhead: behind the State Game Lodge Schoolhouse
• Features: The Lovers Leap Trail provides hikers with a beautiful hike close just behind the State Game Lodge and Cabins. According to local legend, the trail is named after a couple from opposing Native American tribes who leaped from the rocks rather than be separated. This trail offers views of the southern Black Hills, and after a rain, several waterfalls appear along the path. After going up the initial hill, head left to complete this trail clockwise. This way, you go uphill on the steep portion, and can enjoy a more moderate downhill. The last stretches follow the creek, with bridges for all of the creek crossings.
• Places to Eat: The Coolidge General Store is in the middle of the trail, offering quick bites to eat and groceries. For a sit down lunch, visit the State Game Lodge (also mid-trail).

Don’t miss taking a break near the summit on the bench near the Badger Clark sign.

7. Little Devil’s Tower

• Distance: 3.8 mile roundtrip
• Elevation gain: 757 ft.
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dogs: allowed, on leash
• Trailhead: Little Devil’s Tower trailhead near Sylvan Lake
• Features: The Little Devil’s Tower Spur Trail is a highly rewarding hike leading to stunning views of the surrounding granite peaks and valleys. The trail includes some scrambling near the summit. From the top, you can see Black Elk Peak and a panoramic view of the Black Hills. If you are uncomfortable doing this portion, you can turn around there, still enjoying amazing views over the Black Hills. You can easily combine this hike with the Cathedral Spires and / or Black Elk Peak hikes.
• Places to Eat: The Sylvan Lake General Store is a few minutes from the trail, offering quick bites to eat, ice cream, and groceries. For a sit down lunch, visit the Sylvan Lake Lodge.

Each of these trails showcases a different aspect of Custer State Park’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a full-day hike to a mountain summit or a short stroll around a picturesque lake, these trails are sure to provide a memorable outdoor adventure. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and keep an eye out for wildlife, as the park is home to bison, elk, and other wild animals. Happy hiking!

Difficult Hiking Trails

8. Sunday Gulch Trail

• Distance: 3.9 miles
• Elevation Gain: 797 ft.
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Dogs: allowed, on leash (the initial downhill stretch can be challenging for dogs)
• Trailhead: Sunday Gulch Trailhead, located just off of Sylvan Lake
• Description: Starting from the shores of Sylvan Lake, the Sunday Gulch Trail is a less-traveled and rugged path. This trail requires a bit of boulder hopping and navigating slippery streams with the aid of handrails. It can feel almost tropical after a heavy rain. That said, the best way to do the trail is going counter-clockwise. Whichever way you go, come prepared to get your feet wet with the many trail crossings. Water shoes or waterproof shoes are recommended.
• Places to Eat: The Sylvan Lake General Store is a few minutes from the trail, offering quick bites to eat, ice cream, and groceries. For a sit down lunch, visit the Sylvan Lake Lodge.

Custer State Park Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit Custer State Park	The best time to visit Custer State Park is from late spring to early fall, particularly from May through September when the weather is mild, and all park facilities are open. Autumn is especially beautiful for viewing fall foliage.
How Much Time Do You Need in Custer State Park?	Ideally, spend at least two to three days in Custer State Park to thoroughly enjoy its natural beauty, wildlife, and top activities. However, even a one-day visit can be fulfilling if planned well.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit Custer State Park?	Entry to Custer State Park requires a vehicle pass, which costs $20 and is valid for seven days. An annual pass is also available for $36, offering year-round access to all South Dakota state parks

How to Get to Custer State Park

Custer State Park is easily accessible from various locations, making it a convenient destination for travelers eager to explore the natural beauty of South Dakota’s Black Hills. Here’s how you can reach this magnificent park:

By Air	The nearest major airport is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), located about 35 miles north of the park. Upon arriving at Rapid City, you can rent a car and drive to the park. We recommend renting through Discovercars.com.
By Car	It is an easy 45 minute drive from Rapid City to the center of the park. It is 5.5 hours from Sioux City and 6 hours from Denver.
By Bus	While there is no direct bus services to Custer State Park, there is regional bus service to Rapid City. From there, you can rent a car or take a tour to the park.

Best Custer State Park Tours

Here are the top rated tours to visit Custer State Park (all have 5 star reviews unless otherwise noted). Most are combined with a visit to nearby sites, or are private, so that you can customize how much time you’d like to spend at each site.

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Black Hills and Mt Rushmore	This downloadable audio guide takes you through Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, and Mount Rushmore.
Day trip of the Black Hills: Mount Rushmore to Custer State Park!	This tour through the Black Hills is run by locals. In addition to touring Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park, you’ll learn a great deal about the history of the region. The reviews of this tour are glowing, and the tour is priced from $275 for a full day.
Private Tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park	Includes transportation, entry fees, and refreshments, and the flexibility to spend a longer time at Custer State Park or other location.
Premiere Private Black Hills Tour: Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse & Custer State Park	Guided by locals, you’ll visit Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, then visit the wildlife loop, Sylvan Lake, and the Needles in Custer State Park.
Private Custer State Park Safari and Hiking Tour	This private tour leaves from Rapid City, but can include pickups at airbnb’s and campgrounds. Take a wildlife safari tour, and go on a hike. The hike can be customized based on your preferences.
JEEP Bison Safari – Public – Half Day Tour	This half day tour can include pickup and drop-off . It visits the wildlife loop (to see bison, antelope and more), as well as the various scenic drives in the park. This tour is rated 4.5 stars out of 5. For a shorter 2 hour tour, check out the experience from Custer Resorts.
Full-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in South Dakota	Flexible private day tour, allowing you to customize which sights you would like to see.
BEST 7 Day Tour from Las Vegas to Yellowstone National Park	If you’d like to combine a visit to Crazy Horse Memorial with a broader tour of the western national parks, consider this tour. From $1302 per person, this includes a guide/driver, 6 nights hotel. You’ll visit Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, Devil’s Tower, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and Crazy Horse Monument.

Where to Stay in Custer State Park

We recommend staying inside of Custer State Park, to make the most of your experience. Custer State Park Resorts has lodging in four main areas of the park, which we describe in detail in our Custer State Park Lodging post.

• Best for Families, History- and Wildlife-Enthusiasts: State Game Lodge & Cabins
• Best for Hikers, Photo- and Lake-Enthusiasts: Sylvan Lake Lodge & Cabins
• Best for Families and Small Groups: Bluebell Lodge & Cabins
• Best for Groups and Family Fun by the Lake: Legion Lake Lodge & Cabins

Each of these areas has cabins and most have lodge rooms and campgrounds managed by the state park. If you decide to stay in Rapid City, Keystone, Hill City, or Custer, it is just a short drive in to Custer State Park.

Essential Hiking Tips

• Sunscreen: The suns rays are much more intense at higher elevations. Wearing sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection is essential.
• Mountain weather: Always check the forecast before heading out. Keep in mind that mountain weather changes rapidly. When you see bad weather coming, get below timberline as quickly as possible.
• Dress in layers. Dress in layers, and always carry a raincoat. Wear wool socks and sturdy hiking boots for support and traction. My favorites are Salomon hiking boots and trail shoes. Osprey’s Sportlite 25L is our favorite daypack to carry our extra clothes, food and water, and first aid kit. For short hikes, we bring along an Osprey Trail Running pack.
• Trekking poles: Many people enjoy having trekking poles, which can reduce the strain on your ankles and knees, and can help with balance on uneven terrain.
• Hydration and Fuel: Bring more water for your day hikes than you think you’ll need. Consider adding electrolytes to help you stay hydrated, such as Nuun and LiquidIV. Don’t drink water from streams and ponds, unless you are using a LifeStraw or similar. Pack energy-boosting snacks like nuts, fruits, and energy bars.
• Leave no Trace: Preserve the natural beauty by following the Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of the wildlife in the area. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals and know what to do in an encounter with local animals.
• Navigation: If you are using a map on your phone, make sure that it is downloaded. Cell service can be unreliable in the wilderness areas. Inform someone of your hiking plan and expected return time.
• First Aid: Carry a basic first aid kit for minor injuries. This should include, at minimum, Band-Aids, antiseptic, aspirin, mirror, matches, and a jack-knife, a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool.

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