Moon Walk: Meeker Ranch History

Step into Black Hills history at Meeker Ranch, built in 1887 by former Pony Express rider Frank Cunningham Meeker and acquired by the Forest Service in 2004. Just outside Custer, the ranch is undergoing historic preservation and restoration, including work on the buildings and on nearby riparian and wetland areas. Forest Service recreation, heritage, and wildlife staff and partners will lead a walk along the historic road and around the ranchlands, sharing how the place has changed over the years and what comes next.

The Forest Service lists this walk as “Walking through the Past to See the Future” on its printed 2026 Moon Walk schedule.

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.
• 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. This is the walk described above.
• 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.