Import a GPX file

Black Elk Peak Trail in Black Hills National Forest

The Black Elk Peak Trail offers a fantastic hiking experience that combines natural beauty and cultural significance. Starting from Sylvan Lake, the trail winds through dense pine forests, rugged granite formations, and features the famous Cathedral Spires. The climb is moderately challenging, with rewarding views of the Black Hills stretching for miles, and at the summit, you'll be greeted by a historic fire tower that offers panoramic vistas. This hike not only delivers breathtaking scenery but also connects hikers to the rich spiritual history of the Lakota people, making it a memorable and meaningful adventure. #Hiking #Mountain #Forest #Nature

  • Distance: 6.8 mi
  • Elevation gain: 1,503 ft
  • Maximum elevation: 7,169 ft
  • Elevation loss: 1,503 ft
  • Minimum elevation: 6,175 ft
  • Moving time: 3 h 10 m
  • Moving speed: 2.1 mph
  • Maximum speed: 4.3 mph
  • Total time: 3 h 55 m
  • Global speed: 1.7 mph

Interactive trail map

Trail profile

  • Distance: 6.8 mi
  • Elevation gain: 1,503 ft
  • Maximum elevation: 7,169 ft
  • Elevation loss: 1,503 ft
  • Minimum elevation: 6,175 ft
  • Moving time: 3 h 10 m
  • Moving speed: 2.1 mph
  • Maximum speed: 4.3 mph
  • Total time: 3 h 55 m
  • Global speed: 1.7 mph

About this trail

Name: Black Elk Peak Trail in Black Hills National Forest trail, distance, elevation, map, profile, GPS track

Start: Sylvan Day Use Road, Sylvan Lake Resort, Custer County, South Dakota, United States (43.84658 -103.55997)

End: Sylvan Day Use Road, Sylvan Lake Resort, Custer County, South Dakota, United States (43.84660 -103.56003)

Coordinates: 43.84658 -103.56061 43.86598 -103.52672

Topography: Custer County topographic map, elevation, terrain

Other hiking, mountain biking, running and outdoor activity trails

Click on a trail to view its statistics, map and profile.

Black Elk Peak Loop via Little Devil's Tower in Black Hills National Forest

United States > South Dakota > Custer County > Sylvan Lake Resort

This loop trail to Black Elk Peak and Little Devil's Tower is an absolute gem for hikers exploring South Dakota's Black Hills. This well-maintained loop starts at Sylvan Lake and offers breathtaking panoramas, rugged rock formations, and a chance to experience two iconic summits in one trek. While challenging,…

Distance: 8.0 mi • Elevation gain: 1,870 ft • Maximum elevation: 7,169 ft

Black Elk Peak Loop via Little Devil's Tower Trail and Black Elk Peak Trail in Black Hills National Forest

United States > South Dakota > Custer County > Sylvan Lake Resort

The Black Elk Peak Loop provides an unforgettable hiking experience through the stunning Black Hills. As you ascend, you’ll enjoy diverse landscapes, including expansive forests, towering rock formations, and sweeping views from the summit of Black Elk Peak, the highest point in South Dakota, where visitors…

Distance: 7.4 mi • Elevation gain: 1,447 ft • Maximum elevation: 7,169 ft

Little Devil's Tower Trail in Custer State Park

United States > South Dakota > Custer County > Sylvan Lake Resort

The Little Devil's Tower Trail offers an exhilarating experience that’s well worth the effort. The hike is mostly a gentle ascent through stunning rock formations, culminating in a rewarding scramble to the top where breathtaking views of the Black Hills and the Cathedral Spires await. Although the final…

Distance: 4.0 mi • Elevation gain: 988 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,900 ft

Cathedral Spires Trail in Custer State Park

United States > South Dakota > Custer County

The Cathedral Spires Trail offers a fantastic hiking experience filled with stunning views of unique granite formations. As you ascend through picturesque forests and navigate some rocky sections, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the Black Hills and the surrounding landscape. The hike is…

Distance: 2.0 mi • Elevation gain: 633 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,696 ft

Cathedral Spires

United States > South Dakota > Custer County

Hike to Cathedral Spires in the Custer State Park. #Hiking #Mountain #Nature #Forest #Park

Distance: 3.0 mi • Elevation gain: 797 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,699 ft

Gear up for your next adventure:

Backpacking Tents - Weight-optimized shelters for multi-day topographic surveys
🦟Ultrasonic Repellers - Create a bug-free zone at your camp or rest stop
🔌USB Car Charger - Car charger for on‑the‑go power needs
🪄Magnetic Compass - Accurate compass for navigation
🏕️Tent Footprint - Protect your tent base from wear

As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.