Hitting the Trails: Black Hills National Forest Hiking, Biking, and Scenic Drives

Explore Black Hills National Forest's 450+ miles of trails and scenic byways, from family-friendly nature walks to challenging mountain bike routes and breathtaking drives through granite spires.

Exploring the Forest on Foot, Wheel, and Road

Black Hills National Forest offers an exceptional variety of ways to explore its 1.2 million acres of pine-covered mountains, granite formations, and clear mountain streams. With over 450 miles of trails ranging from accessible nature walks to challenging backcountry routes, hikers of all abilities can find their perfect path through this remarkable landscape. Mountain bikers enjoy everything from gentle rail trails to technical single-track, while those who prefer to explore by vehicle can experience the forest’s beauty along National Scenic Byways and forest roads that wind through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Midwest.

What makes the Black Hills trail system truly special is its accessibility and diversity. Unlike more remote wilderness areas that require significant travel just to reach a trailhead, the Black Hills feature an extensive network of trails and roads that make it easy to experience the forest’s wonders, even on a tight schedule. Within a single day, visitors can hike to South Dakota’s highest point, cycle along a historic railroad grade, and drive through tunnels carved in granite—all while never being more than an hour from services and amenities.

This guide will help you navigate the many options for exploring Black Hills National Forest, whether you have just a few hours or several days to spend in this remarkable “Island in the Plains.” We’ll highlight the most scenic and rewarding trails and routes, provide practical information about trailheads and facilities, and offer tips to enhance your experience in every season.

Hiking Highlights

With hundreds of miles of trails crisscrossing the forest, hikers in Black Hills National Forest can find everything from short interpretive walks to challenging multi-day treks. The following trails represent some of the most rewarding hiking experiences the forest has to offer.

Black Elk Peak Trail

The hike to Black Elk Peak (formerly known as Harney Peak) stands as the quintessential Black Hills hiking experience. At 7,244 feet, this granite summit is the highest point east of the Rocky Mountains and west of the Pyrenees in Europe. The historic stone fire lookout tower at the top, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, provides a compelling destination and spectacular 360-degree views.

Several trails lead to the summit, with the most popular route being Trail #9 from Sylvan Lake in adjacent Custer State Park. This moderately challenging 7-mile round-trip hike gains about 1,100 feet of elevation as it winds through ponderosa pine forest, past granite outcroppings, and eventually to the rocky summit. Along the way, hikers enjoy glimpses of the surrounding Black Hills through breaks in the trees, with the views becoming increasingly dramatic as the trail climbs.

For a less-traveled approach, Trail #4 from the Willow Creek Horse Camp provides a longer but more gradual ascent. This route passes through the Black Elk Wilderness, offering a more secluded experience away from the crowds that sometimes fill the main trail during summer months.

Hikers should start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in summer. The summit can be significantly cooler and windier than lower elevations, so layers are recommended even on warm days. While challenging, the well-marked trail is manageable for most reasonably fit hikers, including older children. The reward of standing on the highest point for a thousand miles in any direction makes the effort worthwhile.

Centennial Trail

Created to celebrate South Dakota’s centennial in 1989, this 111-mile trail stretches from Bear Butte State Park in the north to Wind Cave National Park in the south, traversing the entire length of Black Hills National Forest. The Centennial Trail (designated as Trail #89) offers hikers a comprehensive Black Hills experience, passing through diverse ecosystems and near many of the region’s iconic landmarks.

While some ambitious hikers tackle the entire trail as a multi-day backpacking adventure, most visitors enjoy day hikes on particularly scenic sections. Some of the most rewarding segments include:

Section 3 (Dalton Lake to Elk Creek): This 12.6-mile segment passes through the beautiful Elk Creek drainage with its clear streams and diverse forest habitat.
Section 4 (Elk Creek to Sheridan Lake): Covering 10.5 miles, this section includes dramatic views from limestone ridges and passes near the historic Steamboat Rock.
Section 6 (Pactola Reservoir to Brush Creek): This 7.8-mile segment skirts the shores of Pactola Lake and climbs to scenic overlooks of the reservoir.
Section 7 (Brush Creek to Pilot Knob): Traversing 11.7 miles through the heart of the Black Elk Wilderness, this challenging section rewards hikers with solitude and pristine forest landscapes.

The trail is marked with beige fiberglass posts featuring the trail logo—a profile of a bison with “89” (for 1889, the year of South Dakota statehood) inside. These markers appear at junctions and periodically along the route. Water sources can be limited in some sections, so hikers should carry adequate water or be prepared to treat water from streams.

Family-Friendly Options

For families with children or those seeking shorter, easier hikes, Black Hills National Forest offers numerous accessible options:

Roughlock Falls Trail in Spearfish Canyon provides a gentle 1-mile round-trip walk on a paved path and boardwalk system leading to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Black Hills. The trail follows Little Spearfish Creek through a picturesque canyon, with interpretive signs explaining the area’s geology and ecology. The path is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it perfect for visitors of all abilities.

Flume Trail near Sheridan Lake follows the route of an 1880s water flume that once supplied mining operations. This historic trail offers several access points and can be hiked in sections of varying lengths. The most popular segment is a 3-mile round-trip from the Sheridan Lake South Shore area to the impressive “tunnel” section where the flume was carved through solid rock. Interpretive signs explain the engineering and purpose of this remarkable wooden structure that once carried water for miles through the hills.

Veterans Point Trail near Pactola Reservoir offers a short (0.25-mile) paved loop to scenic overlooks of the lake. This fully accessible trail features interpretive panels about the natural and cultural history of the area, along with comfortable benches for enjoying the views.

Big Hill Trail in the northern hills provides a 3-mile loop through pine forest and meadows, with minimal elevation gain making it suitable for younger hikers. In spring and early summer, wildflowers add splashes of color along the trail.

Challenging Backcountry Routes

For experienced hikers seeking more demanding adventures, several trails provide access to the forest’s more remote and rugged areas:

Black Elk Wilderness trails offer some of the most challenging and rewarding hiking in the forest. Beyond the main route to Black Elk Peak, trails like the Norbeck Trail (#3) and Grizzly Bear Creek Trail (#7) penetrate deep into this 13,426-acre wilderness area where motorized equipment is prohibited. These trails feature significant elevation changes, rocky terrain, and stream crossings that may be difficult after heavy rain.

Crow Peak Trail near Spearfish presents a challenging 6.4-mile round-trip hike with 1,600 feet of elevation gain. The trail climbs steadily through ponderosa pine forest before emerging onto rocky slopes that lead to the summit. The reward is a spectacular 360-degree view of the northern Black Hills and the plains beyond.

Bear Mountain Trail in the southern hills offers a strenuous 5-mile loop with rocky sections and steep climbs. The trail passes through diverse forest habitats before reaching viewpoints that provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

These more challenging routes require proper preparation, including adequate water, navigation tools, and appropriate footwear. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Black Hills, so hikers should check forecasts and be prepared for sudden temperature changes or afternoon thunderstorms, particularly in summer months.

Biking Trails

Black Hills National Forest offers exceptional opportunities for both road cycling and mountain biking, with trails and routes suitable for riders of all skill levels. The region’s moderate climate, with relatively mild summers at higher elevations, makes it an ideal cycling destination from late spring through early fall.

George S. Mickelson Trail

The crown jewel of Black Hills cycling is undoubtedly the George S. Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile rail trail that runs north-south through the heart of the Black Hills. Built on an abandoned railroad bed, this crushed limestone path features a gentle grade (never exceeding 4%) that makes it accessible to cyclists of all abilities, including families with children.

The trail passes through some of the most scenic areas of the Black Hills, traversing pine forests, crossing mountain streams on more than 100 converted railroad bridges, and passing through four rock tunnels. Along the way, it connects the historic towns of Deadwood, Lead, Rochford, Hill City, Custer, and Edgemont, providing convenient access to services and accommodations.

With 15 trailheads spaced along its length, the Mickelson Trail can be enjoyed as a multi-day through-ride or in shorter segments. Some of the most scenic sections include:

Deadwood to Dumont: This northern section climbs gradually through a narrow mountain valley alongside a bubbling creek.
Rochford to Hill City: The central portion of the trail passes through the heart of the Black Hills, with scenic views of surrounding peaks and several impressive trestle bridges.
Hill City to Custer: This popular section offers views of Black Elk Peak and passes near Crazy Horse Memorial.

A trail pass is required for cyclists age 12 and older, available at trailheads, local businesses, or online. The trail is open year-round, though winter conditions may limit access in some areas. Several outfitters in towns along the route offer bike rentals and shuttle services for one-way rides.

Mountain Biking Areas

Beyond the Mickelson Trail, Black Hills National Forest offers numerous options for more technical mountain biking on both designated bike trails and forest roads:

Storm Mountain Trail System near Rapid City features over 40 miles of single-track trails with options for all skill levels. The Dakota Point and Tinton trails are favorites among intermediate riders, while the more technical Goldberry and Victoria Lake trails challenge experienced mountain bikers with rocky sections and tight switchbacks.

Centennial Trail, while primarily known as a hiking route, allows mountain bikes on most sections (except within the Black Elk Wilderness). The trail offers challenging riding with technical features including rocks, roots, and occasional stream crossings. Sections 3 and 4 near Dalton Lake are particularly popular with mountain bikers.

Spearfish Canyon area provides several excellent mountain biking options, including the challenging Rimrock Trail and the more moderate Old Baldy Trail. These routes combine technical riding with spectacular scenery, including views of limestone cliffs and waterfalls.

Forest roads throughout the Black Hills offer excellent options for gravel biking and bikepacking. The extensive network of maintained gravel roads provides opportunities for creating loops of various lengths through scenic areas with minimal traffic.

Difficulty Ratings and Distances

Mountain bike trails in Black Hills National Forest typically follow standard difficulty ratings:

Green circles: Beginner-friendly trails with relatively smooth surfaces and gentle grades, such as the Mickelson Trail and many forest roads.
Blue squares: Intermediate trails with some technical features, moderate climbs, and occasional obstacles, like the Dakota Point and Old Baldy trails.
Black diamonds: Advanced trails featuring steep sections, challenging obstacles, and technical riding requirements, such as portions of the Centennial Trail and Goldberry Trail.

Trail distances vary widely, from short 1-2 mile loops to epic routes covering 20+ miles. The Black Hills National Forest website and visitor centers provide maps showing designated biking trails with their difficulty ratings and distances.

Bike Rental Information

Visitors without their own bikes can find rental options in several communities surrounding the forest:

Hill City offers multiple bike rental shops specializing in Mickelson Trail rides, with hybrid bikes, mountain bikes, and e-bikes available. Shuttle services can be arranged for one-way trips.
Deadwood has rental options at the northern terminus of the Mickelson Trail, convenient for riders planning to travel south.
Rapid City features several full-service bike shops offering rentals of high-quality mountain bikes suitable for the more technical trails in the forest.
Spearfish provides rental options for exploring the northern hills, including e-bikes for those wanting assistance on the area’s challenging climbs.

Most rental shops provide helmets, basic repair kits, and maps with their rentals. Some also offer guided rides for those unfamiliar with the area or seeking local knowledge about the best routes.

Scenic Byways and Drives

For those who prefer to explore by vehicle or who want to cover more ground between hiking and biking adventures, Black Hills National Forest offers some of the most spectacular scenic drives in the Midwest. From nationally designated scenic byways to less-traveled forest roads, these routes provide access to breathtaking vistas and natural wonders.

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

This 70-mile route combines portions of US Highways 16A and 244 and SD Highways 87 and 89 to create one of America’s most dramatic drives. Designated as a National Scenic Byway, this winding road was designed by former South Dakota Governor Peter Norbeck in the 1920s to showcase the most spectacular scenery of the central Black Hills.

The byway includes the famous Needles Highway (SD 87), where the road threads between towering granite spires and passes through narrow tunnels carved through solid rock. The Needles Eye Tunnel, just 8 feet wide, frames a slender granite spire that resembles the eye of a needle—a favorite photo opportunity for visitors.

Another highlight is Iron Mountain Road (US 16A), featuring three tunnels that frame Mount Rushmore in the distance when traveling northbound. The road’s unique “pigtail bridges” spiral over themselves, creating an engineering marvel that allows the route to gain elevation in limited space.

The Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway passes through portions of Black Hills National Forest, Custer State Park, and near Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Numerous pullouts along the route provide opportunities to stop and appreciate the views or access short hiking trails. The drive is particularly spectacular in early morning or late afternoon when low-angle sunlight enhances the colors and textures of the landscape.

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

In the northern Black Hills, US Highway 14A winds through the spectacular limestone gorge of Spearfish Canyon. This 19-mile route follows Spearfish Creek as it tumbles through a series of cascades between towering canyon walls that rise 1,000 feet above the road.

Unlike the granite formations of the central hills, Spearfish Canyon showcases sedimentary geology, with distinct layers of limestone, dolomite, and sandstone visible in the canyon walls. These rock layers contain fossils of marine creatures, telling the story of the area’s ancient past when it lay beneath a shallow sea.

The byway features numerous pullouts and short trails leading to scenic viewpoints and waterfalls. Three waterfalls stand out as must-see attractions:

Bridal Veil Falls cascades 60 feet down a limestone cliff and is visible from a roadside pullout at mile marker 17.
Spearfish Falls drops 47 feet through a narrow gorge and is accessible via a short trail from the Spearfish Canyon Lodge.
Roughlock Falls, perhaps the most photogenic, features a series of cascades totaling about 50 feet in height, with an accessible boardwalk trail leading to multiple viewing platforms.

The canyon is particularly beautiful in fall (late September to early October) when the mix of ponderosa pine, birch, aspen, and oak creates a spectacular palette of colors against the limestone backdrop. The road is well-maintained and suitable for all vehicles, including RVs, though drivers should use caution on some of the tighter curves.

Other Scenic Routes

Beyond the nationally designated byways, several other roads provide excellent scenic drives through less-visited portions of Black Hills National Forest:

Vanocker Canyon Road (Forest Highway 26) between Sturgis and Nemo offers a peaceful alternative to busier routes. This paved road winds through a beautiful canyon with ponderosa pine forest and occasional rock outcroppings. The northern section features sweeping views of the surrounding hills and plains.

Rimrock Highway (SD Highway 44) west of Rapid City traverses the eastern edge of the Black Hills, providing dramatic views of the transition zone between forest and plains. The route passes through the scenic Victoria Lake area and connects to the southern Black Hills.

Deerfield Road (Forest Road 306) provides access to the central hills’ high plateau region, passing Deerfield Lake and continuing through scenic meadows and forests. This well-maintained gravel road is suitable for most passenger vehicles and offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly at dawn and dusk.

Rochford Road connects Hill City to Rochford and Deadwood, passing through the heart of the Black Hills. This route follows historic mining corridors and offers access to numerous hiking trails and dispersed camping areas. The small town of Rochford provides a glimpse of the area’s mining history.

These less-traveled routes often provide the best opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography without the crowds found on the major byways. They’re particularly enjoyable during weekdays or in shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) when traffic is minimal.

Trailhead Information

Accessing the many trails in Black Hills National Forest is generally straightforward, with well-marked trailheads throughout the forest. Understanding what facilities are available at different access points helps ensure a smooth start to your adventure.

Parking Availability

Trailhead parking varies considerably throughout the forest:

Major trailheads like those serving the Mickelson Trail feature large, paved parking areas with space for dozens of vehicles, including RVs and trailers. These lots rarely fill completely except during special events.
Moderate-sized trailheads at popular hiking areas like the Flume Trail and Centennial Trail access points typically offer gravel parking for 10-20 vehicles. These can fill on summer weekends and holidays, particularly in the morning hours.
Minor trailheads and forest road access points may have limited parking for just a few vehicles, sometimes in simple pull-offs along the road. Early arrival is recommended for these smaller access points during peak season.

When parking at trailheads, visitors should ensure they don’t block gates or roads that may be needed for emergency access. In winter, some trailhead parking areas are not plowed, limiting access to certain trails during snow season.

Facilities

Facilities at trailheads range from comprehensive to minimal:

Full-service trailheads like those at Sheridan Lake, Pactola Reservoir, and major Mickelson Trail access points offer vault or flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, and information kiosks with maps and trail information.
Basic trailheads typically provide vault toilets and information boards but may not have drinking water available.
Primitive access points may have only a small sign marking the trail and minimal parking, with no other facilities.

Visitors should always carry adequate water, as drinking water is not available at many trailheads, particularly those at more remote locations. Trail maps are available at forest visitor centers and ranger stations, and downloading digital maps before heading out is recommended, as cell service is limited in many areas of the forest.

Accessibility Features

Black Hills National Forest has made significant efforts to improve accessibility at many trailheads and on select trails:

Veterans Point Trail near Pactola Reservoir features accessible parking, restrooms, and a paved trail suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Roughlock Falls Trail in Spearfish Canyon offers accessible parking and a boardwalk trail system that accommodates wheelchairs and those with mobility challenges.
Mickelson Trail trailheads at Deadwood, Hill City, and Custer provide accessible parking and restrooms, with the trail itself being relatively flat and firm, suitable for adaptive cycles in many sections.
Pactola Visitor Center area (temporarily closed until 2026) includes accessible trails connecting the center to nearby viewpoints and picnic areas.

The Forest Service continues to improve accessibility throughout the forest, with information about specific accessible features available on their website and at visitor centers. Visitors with mobility challenges are encouraged to contact forest offices in advance for the most current information about accessible trails and facilities.

Seasonal Considerations

The Black Hills experience changes dramatically with the seasons, affecting trail conditions, accessibility, and the overall character of outdoor adventures. Understanding these seasonal variations helps visitors plan appropriate activities and come prepared for the conditions they’ll encounter.

Best Seasons for Different Trails

Spring (April-May) brings renewal to the forest as snow melts and wildflowers begin to emerge. This is an excellent time for lower-elevation trails, particularly in the northern hills and Spearfish Canyon, where waterfalls reach peak flow from snowmelt. Spring hiking on the Flume Trail and lower sections of the Centennial Trail offers wildflower displays and comfortable temperatures. However, higher elevation trails may still have snow patches into May, and muddy conditions can persist on shaded trails.

Summer (June-August) is peak season for most Black Hills trails. Higher elevation routes like those to Black Elk Peak become fully accessible as snow melts completely. Early morning offers the best hiking conditions, as afternoon temperatures can climb into the 80s at lower elevations. Summer is ideal for the Mickelson Trail, with its tree-shaded sections providing relief from the heat. The forest’s lakes and streams become important destinations, making waterside trails like those around Sheridan Lake and Pactola Reservoir particularly appealing.

Fall (September-October) is considered by many to be the perfect season for Black Hills exploration. Temperatures moderate, crowds thin after Labor Day, and deciduous trees add splashes of gold and red to the evergreen landscape. This is the prime time for scenic drives and photography, particularly in Spearfish Canyon where fall colors typically peak in late September to early October. Hiking conditions are generally excellent, with stable weather and fewer afternoon thunderstorms than summer.

Winter (November-March) transforms many forest trails into venues for snow sports. While some lower-elevation trails remain hikeable year-round, many convert to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing routes when covered with snow. The Mickelson Trail is popular with winter recreationists, though it is not formally groomed for skiing. Forest roads that close to vehicles in winter often become excellent routes for snowshoeing and fat-tire biking. The scenic byways remain plowed throughout winter, though temporary closures can occur during heavy snowstorms.

Closures and Conditions

Several factors affect trail and road accessibility throughout the year:

Seasonal road closures affect access to some trailheads, particularly at higher elevations. Many forest roads close to vehicles from December through April, though exact dates depend on snow conditions. The Needles Highway portion of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway typically closes for winter from early November to April.
Trail maintenance activities occasionally necessitate temporary closures, particularly after severe weather events or during fire mitigation projects. These are typically announced on the forest website and at visitor centers.
Fire restrictions may be implemented during dry periods, affecting camping and access to certain areas. These can range from campfire limitations to full area closures during extreme fire danger.
Wildlife management occasionally affects trail access, particularly during sensitive nesting periods for protected bird species or in areas where mountain lion activity has been reported.

Visitors should check the Black Hills National Forest website or contact visitor centers for current conditions before heading out, particularly in spring when snowmelt can create unpredictable conditions and in summer when fire restrictions may be in effect.

Weather Preparedness

Weather in the Black Hills can change rapidly in any season, requiring appropriate preparation:

Spring weather is highly variable, with possibilities of both warm sunshine and late snowstorms. Layered clothing is essential, as temperatures can fluctuate 30+ degrees in a single day.
Summer afternoons often bring thunderstorms, particularly in July and August. These storms can develop quickly and may include lightning, hail, and brief heavy rain. Morning starts are recommended for summit hikes to avoid afternoon lightning risk.
Fall brings generally stable weather, though early snowstorms are possible beginning in October. Night temperatures can drop below freezing while days remain pleasantly warm.
Winter conditions require proper cold-weather gear, including insulated footwear, moisture-wicking layers, and wind protection. Temperatures can drop well below zero, particularly at night and at higher elevations.

Year-round, visitors should carry adequate water (at least 1 liter per person for short hikes, more for longer adventures), sun protection (the higher elevation means more intense UV exposure), and a basic first aid kit. A rain jacket or poncho is recommended even on clear days, as mountain weather can change with little warning.

Safety and Etiquette

Enjoying Black Hills National Forest safely and responsibly ensures a positive experience for all visitors while protecting this special landscape for future generations. Following established safety practices and trail etiquette helps preserve both the natural environment and the quality of the outdoor experience.

Trail Safety Tips

Tell someone your plans before heading out, including which trails you intend to hike and when you expect to return. This is particularly important for more remote routes.
Carry essentials even for short hikes: water, snacks, map, first aid kit, knife, flashlight, and extra layers appropriate to the season.
Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion, protect sensitive vegetation, and avoid getting lost. Shortcuts that cut across switchbacks damage trails and create erosion problems.
Check weather forecasts before heading out and be prepared for changing conditions. In summer, plan to be off high ridges and peaks before afternoon thunderstorms typically develop.
Carry a paper map as backup, as cell service is limited or non-existent in many parts of the forest. Free Motor Vehicle Use Maps showing forest roads are available at visitor centers.
Hike with a partner when possible, especially on more remote trails. Solo hikers should be particularly careful about staying on marked routes.
Know your limits and choose trails appropriate to your fitness level and experience. Remember that hiking at higher elevations (5,000-7,000 feet in much of the Black Hills) can be more strenuous than at lower elevations.

Wildlife Awareness

Black Hills National Forest is home to diverse wildlife, including some species that require special awareness:

Black bears are present in the forest, though encounters are relatively rare. If you encounter a bear, make your presence known by speaking in a calm, firm voice while backing away slowly. Never run or approach bears.
Mountain lions maintain a healthy population in the hills but rarely interact with humans. If you encounter a mountain lion, make yourself look large, make noise, and back away slowly. Never run, as this may trigger a chase response.
Rattlesnakes can be found in rocky areas, particularly on south-facing slopes. Stay on trails, watch where you step and place your hands, and listen for their distinctive warning rattle.
Bison occasionally wander into the national forest from adjacent Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park. These massive animals can be dangerous if approached. Maintain a distance of at least 25 yards.

For all wildlife, the golden rule is to observe from a distance. Never approach, feed, or attempt to touch wild animals, no matter how docile they may appear. Keep food secured to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife to campsites and picnic areas.

Leave No Trace Principles

Black Hills National Forest asks all visitors to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact:

Plan ahead and prepare to avoid situations that lead to high-impact solutions.
Travel and camp on durable surfaces, staying on established trails and campsites.
Dispose of waste properly by packing out all trash and waste. If toilet facilities are not available, bury human waste 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water sources.
Leave what you find, whether it’s wildflowers, rocks, artifacts, or other natural or cultural features.
Minimize campfire impacts by using established fire rings and following current fire restrictions.
Respect wildlife by observing from a distance and not feeding animals.
Be considerate of other visitors by keeping noise levels reasonable and yielding trail to others according to proper etiquette.

On multi-use trails, proper etiquette helps ensure everyone’s enjoyment:

Hikers yield to horses
Cyclists yield to both hikers and horses
Downhill travelers yield to uphill travelers
When passing others, provide a friendly greeting and pass on the left when possible

By practicing these safety and etiquette principles, visitors help preserve the natural beauty and peaceful character of Black Hills National Forest for all to enjoy.

Explore More About Black Hills National Forest

Ready to continue your exploration of Black Hills National Forest? Our detailed guides cover everything from historical context to practical advice for your visit: