Black Elk Peak Hike via Sylvan Lake Route

Breathtaking natural beauty from a birds' eye view in the central Black Hills of South Dakota.Show more

Black Elk Peak is the highest natural point in South Dakota, United States. It lies in the Black Elk Wilderness area, in southern Pennington County, in the Black Hills National Forest. The peak lies 3.7 mi west-southwest of Mount Rushmore, but to get there you have a few miles ahead of you.

For centuries, this peak has been the site of visions and majesty.

At 7,242 feet, Black Elk Peak isn’t just South Dakota’s highest point. It’s also the highest elevation between the Rocky Mountains in the western United States and the Pyrenees Mountains in France. Surrounded by the beautiful Black Elk Wilderness in Custer State Park, Black Elk Peak is one of the most popular sites in the state. Hikers of all ages make their ascent to take in a view that seems to extend forever and includes gorgeous views of South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, Nebraska and North Dakota.

The best trailhead with secure, ample parking is located at Sylvan Lake inside of Custer State Park. User fees apply.

For a beautiful still photo essay and information on how to get there, simply click on the link below:

https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/trip-ideas/photo-essay/black-elk-peak