Katrina G.
6/4/2025
The views at the top of Black Elk Peak are so beautiful! The trail leading up to the peak is a steady incline with one short stretch where it goes downhill. Due to the incline, I recommend wearing...
Black Elk Peak
(9)
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Hill City, SD 57745
Black Elk Peak, formerly known as Harney Peak, is the highest point in South Dakota, standing at 7,242 feet and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Black Hills. Renamed in 2016 to honor Native American leader Nicholas Black Elk, the peak holds significant cultural and historical importance, particularly to the Sioux Nation.
The summit is accessible only by a moderately difficult hiking trail that begins near Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Atop the peak sits a historic fire lookout tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the mid-1930s, which now serves as a public relic that enhances the area's natural beauty and rich history.
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Reviews
5.09 reviewsEmmanuelle H.
5/23/2025
It took me and my pals 3hrs and 15mins to come up and down this peak (fast paced group but took short breaks). I'm an athlete and my hips were very stiff by the end. This one's not for the weak !!...
Teresa M.
5/7/2020
We're all doing our part to abide by social distancing, while trying to keep ourselves sane and healthy. Hiking the Black Elk Wilderness for 11hrs seemed like a good way to pull off "all of the...
Joe S.
7/21/2020
This is the highest point in South Dakota and highest point east of the Rockies in the United States. We took the 4.5 hour hike round trip up to Black Elk Peak. This was formerly named Harney...
Madeline H.
1/6/2022
Amazing hike. Can't recommend it enough. I would do it again and again if my life allowed for it. Seriously can't wait to go back and do it again. I want to take everyone I love so that they can...
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