Where is Black Elk Peak located?

Black Elk Peak is located in Custer State Park, South Dakota. It is the highest point in South Dakota, standing at 7,242 feet.

How do I get to the Black Elk Peak trailhead?

The hike starts at Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park. There is a fee to park at Sylvan Lake, and you can purchase a pass at the kiosks using a credit card.

What is the difficulty level of the Black Elk Peak hike?

The Black Elk Peak hike is moderate to challenging, with some steeper sections, especially near the summit. It is a backcountry hike, so you should be prepared for wilderness conditions.

What is the length of the Black Elk Peak hike?

The loop hike to Black Elk Peak is approximately 7 miles long, depending on the route you take. It offers a variety of terrain and stunning views.

What are the highlights of the Black Elk Peak hike?

The hike features Cathedral Spires, the summit of Black Elk Peak with a fire lookout, and a route past Little Devil's Tower. The views from the summit are breathtaking, with vistas into the surrounding mountains and forests.

Do I need a permit to hike Black Elk Peak?

No permit is required to hike Black Elk Peak. However, there is a parking fee at Sylvan Lake. Be sure to check for any special requirements or conditions before your hike.

Is there cell service on the Black Elk Peak trail?

Cell service is available in parts of the Black Elk Peak hike, but it is not guaranteed throughout the entire trail. It is recommended to carry a satellite SOS device for safety.

What should I bring for the Black Elk Peak hike?

You should bring proper hiking gear, 2-3L of water, snacks, and sun protection. The hike takes you through backcountry terrain, so be prepared for varying conditions.

What is the best time to hike Black Elk Peak?

The best time to hike Black Elk Peak is during the late spring, summer, or early fall when the trail is clear and the weather is more predictable. Winter hikes may require additional gear due to snow and ice.

Are there any notable landmarks along the Black Elk Peak hike?

Notable landmarks include Cathedral Spires, the summit fire lookout at Black Elk Peak, and Little Devil's Tower. These offer scenic views and great photo opportunities along the way.

PLAY VIDEO

Black Elk Peak Hike

By Cris Hazzard, Professional Hiking Guide
Updated May 5, 2025

Hike Stats

Total Distance: 7.1 miles
Time: 3-4 Hours
Total Climbing: 1480 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Crowds: Moderate
Dogs: Leashed
Gear: What I Use
Weather: Latest Report
Park: Custer State Park

Black Elk Peak is not only South Dakota's high point, but it's also one of the most beautiful hikes in the USA. This guide will show you a loop hike that takes you past Cathedral Spires, up to the Harney Fire Lookout at the summit of Black Elk Peak, and then back down past Little Devil's Tower. It's a classic hike that I highly recommend.

Hike Notes

The hike starts at Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park. There's a fee to park there and you can purchase a pass at kiosks using a credit card.
This is a backcountry hike and you should be prepared for backcountry conditions.
There is cell service on parts of this hike but I still bring a satellite SOS device just in case.
You can hike straight up the #9 trail but I'm going to describe the more popular loop route which is about the same distance but takes in more sights, such as Cathedral Spires.

Black Elk Peak Trail Maps

Click to activate map

Print Map, Work With It Yourself

View Hike on CalTopo

Bring the Guide to Any GPS

Download the GPX File

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 3 — Shortly after the beginning there's a sharp left turn. It's easy to hike straight and miss it.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 4 — There are trail markers here and throughout Custer State Park like this.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 5 — Shortly after that there's a parking lot. Cross the lot to continue the trail.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 6 — Stay right when the rock climber's trail heads off left.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 7 — Leave the #4 trail and continue right.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 8 — Shortly after that is the Cathedral Spires Trail. Stay to the left.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 9 — Keep straight as the Grizzly Bear Creek Trail joins on the right.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 10 — Towards the top of the climb make the right onto the #9 trail toward Black Elk Peak.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 11 — Shortly after that make the hard left to continue up to the peak.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 12 — Follow the stairs and walkways to the summit.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 13 — Enjoy the views and then start to head back down the way you came up.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 14 — Instead of heading back down toward the #4 trail, go straight on the #9 trail.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 15 — Bear left at the Lost Cabin Spur junction.

Black Elk Peak Hike Directions 16 — Towards the end bear left to continue to the parking lot and end of hike.

Originally published December 9, 2024