The best walks and hikes in Custer County
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(150)
1,771
hikers
60
hikes
Hikes in Custer County are concentrated within the Black Hills of South Dakota, primarily in Custer State Park and the surrounding Black Hills National Forest. The region is characterized by granite spires, dense pine forests, and rolling prairie grasslands. Trails range from lakeside paths to routes that ascend to notable viewpoints, offering a variety of options for hikers.
Best hiking trails in Custer County
- The most popular hiking route is Black Elk Peak loop — Custer State Park, a…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(3)
46
hikers
1.68km
00:26
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
9.75km
03:05
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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2
hikers
3.97km
01:03
0m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
3.52km
01:02
150m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
9.38km
02:39
190m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
1.59km
00:29
60m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
7.55km
02:03
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.44km
00:57
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9.74km
03:05
570m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.94km
00:37
120m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Custer County
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Tips from the Community
A really beautiful hike that you can make around this lake.
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The scenery is stunning. This hike is definitely worth the detour.
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Beautiful and adventurous piece.
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You simply have to climb the top of this mountain; it is "the highest" in South Dakota at 2207m, and it is also a pleasant path without any major pitfalls and as a "reward: 360° cinema". Warning: parking costs (this year) 20 dollars per car.
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Center Lake is a little quieter than some of the other lakes in the area. This picturesque lake offers a picnic area, playground and small beach. As well as a campground that is ideal for tents and small campers.
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Mount Coolidge has a height of about 6000 feet and is famous for its fire tower on the summit. Go up the stairs and enjoy the fantastic view over the surrounding Black Hills and up to Mount Rushmore.
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Just follow the signs saying "Overlook" on the upper loop of The Lost Trails and you will eventually reach this viewpoint. It's probably the best view you can get of Center Lake, and usually you won't find many other people on the trail.
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Even though you can already see the Cathedral Spires from the Needles Highway down below, it's another level to see them that close from the trail. The huge granite spires are rising hundreds of feet and belong to the largest rock faces in the Black Hills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many easy, family-friendly hikes in Custer County?
Yes, there are plenty of options for families. Custer County offers over 20 easy trails that are generally shorter and have less elevation gain. A great choice is the Stockade Lake Trail loop, a simple 1.5-mile (2.4 km) walk around the lake that's perfect for all ages.
What are some good dog-friendly trails in the area?
Dogs are welcome on most trails in the Black Hills National Forest and Custer State Park, as long as they are on a leash. For a scenic walk with your dog, consider the Prairie Trail Loop. This 2-mile (3.3 km) trail offers wide-open spaces and the chance to see wildlife from a distance.
I'm an experienced hiker looking for a challenge. What do you recommend?
For a more strenuous outing, the Hell Canyon Trail loop is a fantastic choice. This 5.2-mile (8.4 km) moderate hike takes you through a rugged canyon in the Black Hills National Forest, offering a different landscape from the state park trails.
Which hike offers the best views of the granite spires?
To get up close to the iconic granite formations, the Cathedral Spires Trail is an excellent option. It's a relatively short but rewarding 1.5-mile (2.3 km) out-and-back hike that leads you right into the heart of these dramatic rock needles.
How many hiking trails are available in Custer County?
You can explore over 45 hiking routes in Custer County. The trails range from 24 easy walks suitable for the whole family to 7 difficult routes that will challenge experienced hikers.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Custer County?
The trails in this region are very highly regarded by the Komoot community, with over 1,400 hikers exploring the area. The routes have an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, with hikers often praising the stunning granite scenery and well-maintained paths.
Are there any good hikes in Wind Cave National Park?
Yes, Wind Cave National Park has some wonderful trails that showcase the prairie landscape. The Lookout Point and Centennial Trail loop is a popular 4.8-mile (7.7 km) moderate hike where you have a good chance of spotting bison and prairie dogs.
What should I pack for a day hike in Custer State Park?
For any hike, it's essential to bring plenty of water, especially in summer. Sturdy hiking shoes are a must, as many trails are rocky. Also pack snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a map. The weather can change quickly, so bringing a light rain jacket is always a good idea.
How do I get to the trailhead for Black Elk Peak?
The most popular trailhead for Black Elk Peak is located at Sylvan Lake, inside Custer State Park. You can find it by searching for the Black Elk Peak Trailhead or Sylvan Lake Day Use Area. There is a large parking lot, but it can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
Are there any less-crowded trails for a quieter experience?
If you're looking to avoid the crowds, consider a trail outside the main Sylvan Lake area. The Cold Brook Canyon Trail to Fossil Ridge in Wind Cave National Park is a quieter 3-mile (4.8 km) option that offers a peaceful walk through a canyon.
What is the terrain like on the Little Devil's Tower Trail?
The Little Devil's Tower Trail is a 2.7-mile (4.4 km) route that involves a fun rock scramble to reach the summit. The trail is rocky and requires some confidence with heights, but rewards you with incredible panoramic views of the Black Hills.
Do I need to pay an entrance fee to hike in Custer State Park?
Yes, an entrance license is required for all vehicles entering Custer State Park. A temporary license is valid for 1-7 days, or you can purchase an annual pass. This fee helps maintain the park's trails and facilities. You can find current fee information on the official Custer State Park website.
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