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

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, the trail rewards with unique views at Black Elk Peak and the quieter, equally scenic Little Devil's Tower, making it perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and soak in the natural beauty of the area. #Hiking #Mountain #Loop #Forest #Nature #Rock

  • Distance: 12.9 Km
  • Elevation gain: 570 m
  • Maximum elevation: 2,185 m
  • Elevation loss: 572 m
  • Minimum elevation: 1,879 m
  • Moving time: 1 h 52 m
  • Moving speed: 6.9 Km/h
  • Maximum speed: 23.0 Km/h
  • Total time: 1 h 58 m
  • Global speed: 6.5 Km/h

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About this trail

Name: Black Elk Peak Loop via Little Devil's Tower in Black Hills National Forest trail, distance, elevation, map, profile, GPS track

Start: Sylvan Lake Trail, Sylvan Lake Resort, Custer County, South Dakota, United States (43.84632 -103.56115)

End: Sylvan Lake Trail, Sylvan Lake Resort, Custer County, South Dakota, United States (43.84596 -103.56073)

Coordinates: 43.84261 -103.56115 43.86585 -103.52557

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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: 11.9 Km • Elevation gain: 441 m • Maximum elevation: 2,185 m

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: 3.2 Km • Elevation gain: 193 m • Maximum elevation: 2,041 m

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: 6.4 Km • Elevation gain: 301 m • Maximum elevation: 2,103 m

Black Elk Peak Trail in Black Hills National Forest

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

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…

Distance: 10.9 Km • Elevation gain: 458 m • Maximum elevation: 2,185 m

Sylvan Lake Loop Trail in Custer State Park

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

The Sylvan Lake loop is a delightful and easy hike that offers stunning scenery around the picturesque lake. This is a popular trail known for its serene views of Sylvan Lake, framed by towering granite rock formations and lush landscapes. While most of the trail is flat and accessible, the northwest section…

Distance: 1.8 Km • Elevation gain: 35 m • Maximum elevation: 1,892 m

Cathedral Spires

United States > South Dakota > Custer County

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

Distance: 4.9 Km • Elevation gain: 243 m • Maximum elevation: 2,042 m