Hiking Black Elk Peak @ Custer State Park

Hike to the summit of Black Elk Peak in Custer State Park via Trail #9 for the ascent and descent. Trailhead is at the Sylvan Lake Day Use Area, 3.4 miles each way, rated easy to moderate. 1,514' of elevation gain for the round trip, highest elevation 7,214 (Garmin) / 7,244 (published). We used Trail #9 for the ingress and egress, but if you have time, highly recommend using Trail #4 for either the ascent or descent and hiking the two spur trails (Cathedral Spires and Little Devils Tower) along Trail #4 for an additional adventure without adding considerable mileage.