Join Black Hills National Forest staff for an evening hike along the Reuter Springs Trail to see how the Forest grows its next generation of trees. Forestry Technician Jed Burgers will walk you through the tools and techniques used to collect cones from native ponderosa pine and explain how those seeds become the seedlings that replant the Forest. Expect hands-on demonstrations and plenty of time for questions.
Getting there: The walk starts at the Reuter Trailhead before heading up the Reuter Springs Trail. From Sundance, Wyoming, take US Highway 14 about two miles to Warren Peak Road, turn right, and drive about three miles. The Reuter Trailhead is on the left.
2026 Moon Walk schedule
The Black Hills National Forest runs four Moon Walks in 2026. Every walk is on a Saturday, starts at 7:00 p.m., and is free to attend with no registration.
- June 27: Cone collection and reforestation. Reuter Trailhead near Sundance, Wyoming. This is the walk described above.
- July 25: Bat biology, Let’s Turn On the Dark. Little Elk Creek Trailhead near Piedmont.
- August 29: Meeker Ranch history. Meeker Cabin and Historic Area near Custer.
- September 26: Forest insects. Willow Creek Trailhead near Hill City.
About Moon Walks
Moon Walks are free, family-friendly guided hikes held on Saturday nights near the full moon, June through September. Each evening begins at 7:00 p.m. with a short introduction, then a guided hike of about a mile with stops along the way, running roughly two hours. Dress in layers, wear closed-toe shoes or boots (no sandals), and bring a light jacket for the cool night air. Some routes may be difficult for those with mobility concerns and are not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Walks happen rain or shine and are canceled only for lightning, high fire danger, or severe weather. Advance cancellations are posted on the Black Hills National Forest website and Facebook page, so check before heading out if the weather looks uncertain.
The Black Hills Parks & Forests Association is a proud nonprofit partner of the U.S. Forest Service and supports the Moon Walk program through funding and staffing. Look for the 2026 Black Hills Moon Walk collector’s pin, available for $5 at each walk (cash, sold only on the trail). Pin sales support interpretive and educational programs across the Black Hills National Forest.
Want a keepsake from the season? The 2026 Black Hills Moon Walk Collector’s Pin is sold at each walk for $5 and is also available online. Proceeds support education and stewardship on the Black Hills National Forest.
