South Dakota has some spectacular views and a wonderful variety of wildlife. You have the Badlands, Custer State Park, and Black Elk Wilderness. Specifically, the Black Elk Wilderness area spans more than 13,000 acres. Unlike many other nature preserves in America, it’s a massive swath of land. It’s also less than an hour away from the terrific lodging at Rushmore Express. Continue reading to learn why you should visit Black Elk Wilderness and what you should do and see there.
Black Elk Peak
It’s hard to miss Black Elk Peak because it’s the highest point in South Dakota and the highest elevation between the Rocky Mountains in the western United States and the Pyrenees Mountains in France. This is one of the most popular sites in the state, and you should hike it or at least take a photo when you visit.
Harney Lookout Tower
If you reach the top of Black Elk Peak, you will want to visit the Harney Fire Lookout. This fire lookout’s history dates back to 1911, when a wooden box was placed at the site for the lookout. In 1940, the structure that exists today was completed. The tower is on the National Register of Historic Places and welcomes around 30,000 visitors annually.
Hiking Black Elk Wilderness and Norbeck Wildlife Preserve Trail System
There are 18 hiking trails throughout the Black Elk Wilderness and Norbeck Wildlife Preserve Trail System. The trails range from less than one mile to nine miles in length. Some of the trails you can embark on are listed below.
- Lost Cabin Trail, 5.0 miles
- Norbeck Trail, 6.3 miles
- Willow Creek-Rushmore Trail, 1.9 miles
- Sunday Gulch Trail, 3.2 miles
- Grizzly Bear Creek Trail, 6.3 miles
- Willow Creek Loop, 2.8 miles.
- Harney Peak North Trail, 4.7 miles
- Harney Peak South Trail, 3.8 miles
- Horsethief Lake Trail, 2.7 miles
- Iron Creek Trail, 2.4 miles
- Iron Mountain Trail, 1.4 miles
- Centennial Bypass Trail, 1.7 miles
- Blackberry Trail, 0.8 mile
- Sylvan Lakeshore Trail, 1.0 mile
- Cathedral Spires Trail, 0.9 mile
- Little Devils Tower Trail, 0.6 mile
Venture In Black Elk Wilderness
You will find a lot to appreciate in Black Elk Wilderness, so don’t leave your camera behind. If you do, it’s good that your lodging is not far away at Rushmore Express. By booking directly with us, you can access the Black Hills and Badlands, which have more parks, hiking trails, and wildlife. Rushmore Express has relaxing amenities and luxuries like granite fireplaces, 55-inch televisions, free Wi-Fi, whirlpools, and in-room coffee. Book directly online or call today at 605-666-4483.