Black Elk Peak

Last Updated 23 Oct 2026

Black Elk Peak, formerly called Harney Peak, stands at 7,244 feet and is the highest point in South Dakota. Located within the Black Hills National Forest, this peak offers hikers breathtaking views, rich history, and a chance to explore what is often called the highest summit east of the Rocky Mountains in the United States (a claim that depends on how you define the Rockies). The peak is renowned for its panoramic vistas and the historic fire lookout tower at the summit.

In 2016, the U.S. Board on Geographic Names renamed the mountain for Black Elk, the Oglala Lakota holy man who experienced a vision on its summit. The peak remains deeply important to the Lakota people, so treat it with respect while you're up there.

Black Elk Peak is granite, pushed up along with the rest of the Black Hills during the Laramide orogeny some 40 to 60 million years ago. The summit sits below treeline, yet its crown is bare rock, so nothing blocks the view in any direction.

Access Point

Navigate to RCWQ+JX Keystone, South Dakota.

Most hikers start at Sylvan Lake, in Custer State Park. From Rapid City, take Highway 16 west about 30 miles to Hill City. Stay on Highway 16 through town, and 3.2 miles past Hill City, turn east onto Highway 87. After 6.1 miles, the Sylvan Lake recreation area appears on your left. Both Trail 9 South and Trail 4 begin from the large lot on the east side of the lake.

The north side of the mountain is reached from the Willow Creek Horse Camp. Drive to Hill City as above, head south on Highway 16 for 3 miles, and turn east onto Highway 244. About 3 miles later, watch for the horse camp on your right; the trail starts at the east end of its day-use area.

Two lesser-used options, Norbeck Trail 3 and Grizzly Bear Trail 7, begin along Forest Road 345, which you can reach from the Needles Highway (Highway 87) about eight miles southeast of Sylvan Lake.

Recommended Route

Follow the Black Elk Peak Trail.

Several trails reach the summit, and the free Black Elk Wilderness map from the Black Hills National Forest shows all of them. Most people take Trail 9 South from Sylvan Lake. The Forest Service lists it at about 3.5 miles one way (7 miles round trip), climbing from roughly 6,100 feet to the 7,244-foot summit. Because the trail rolls up and down, you'll gain about 1,500 feet in total. It's an easy to moderate hike.

Trail 4, also from Sylvan Lake, is a popular alternative of about the same length. It swings farther south, past short side trails to Little Devils Tower and the Cathedral Spires, and it has a second trailhead on the Needles Highway about a mile southeast of Sylvan Lake. Trail 4 runs 2.3 miles from Sylvan Lake to its junction with Trail 3, which links to Trail 9 South; from there it's about 1.4 miles more to the top.

For a longer and quieter climb, start from the north at Willow Creek Horse Camp and follow Trail 9 North for 5 miles to the summit, gaining about 2,200 feet along the way. It's the closer trailhead if you're coming from Rapid City. Every route is well signed.

Regulations

You don't need a permit to hike Black Elk Peak. The summit sits in the Black Elk Wilderness, part of the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve within the Black Hills National Forest, and a counter at the trailhead tallies everyone who passes. Pick up a free map at any local Forest Service office. The Sylvan Lake trailheads, though, are inside Custer State Park, which charges an entrance license per vehicle: $25 for 1–7 days ($20 per motorcycle), or an annual license of $40 for South Dakota residents and $60 for nonresidents.

Camping

You can't camp in the Willow Creek day-use area, but you're free to hike into the surrounding forest and pitch a tent there. The Forest Service doesn't allow camping within a quarter mile of the summit, and there are plenty of good spots both north and south of it. Custer State Park has everything from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites, and Sylvan Lake Lodge rents cabins and lodge rooms if you'd rather sleep indoors. Hill City and Custer have more lodging.

FAQs

What should I bring for the hike?

Bring plenty of water, snacks, a day pack, comfortable hiking boots, layered clothing, a hat, sunscreen, trekking poles, and a map or GPS device. It's also advisable to bring a first aid kit and weather-appropriate gear.

Is the hike suitable for beginners?

The hike is considered moderate and suitable for beginners in good physical condition. The trail is well-marked and maintained. However, beginners should be prepared for a steady elevation gain and a longer distance if choosing the whole loop.

When is the best time to hike Black Elk Peak?

The best times to hike are in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild. Summer hikes are enjoyable but can be crowded. Winter hikes offer solitude but require preparation for snowy and icy conditions.

Are pets allowed on the trail?

Yes, pets are allowed but must remain leashed. Ensure you bring enough water and supplies for your pet, too.

Why was Harney Peak renamed to Black Elk Peak?

Black Elk Peak was originally named Harney Peak after General William S. Harney, a U.S. Army officer involved in conflicts with Native American tribes. In 2016, it was renamed Black Elk Peak to honor Black Elk, a revered Lakota holy man known for his spiritual visions and efforts to preserve Lakota culture. The change acknowledged the mountain’s significance to Indigenous people and moved away from a name associated with violent colonial history.