Custer State Park is one of the best state parks I have ever visited. I’ve heard it referred to as “the state park that should be a national park”. For one thing, it’s HUGE! Also, the varied landscape it encompasses is absolutely GORGEOUS, not to mention the many ecosystems and wide array of animals that are found within its borders. You can literally spend a week here and still may not see everything!
If you enjoy hiking, see below for a list of trails, divided by difficulty level, that you don’t want to miss on your visit!
Easy/family-friendly trails at Custer State Park
These trails are appropriate for almost any hiker:
**Spokane Ghost Town–a Black Hills “secret” location! **This isn’t really a trail so much as a destination so I’m adding it as a bonus!*
Medium-difficulty trails
These are recommended for hikers with a bit more stamina:
Hiking Black Elk Peak, Trail #9: the Easy Way! THIS is the main Black Elk Peak trail (it’s much easier!)
Horsethief Lake and Grizzly Bear Creek Trails
Poet’s Table —another Black Hills “secret” location
Little Devils Tower, Cathedral Spires, and Needles Highway Loop
A Difficult Trail at Custer State Park
In my opinion, this is the most difficult trail in the entire park and one of the hardest in the entire Black Hills. Expect it to take you most of the day. It can be quite strenuous and includes a large elevation gain. In wet, snowy and especially icy conditions expect it to be quite slippery. I would only recommend this trail for experienced hikers who are seeking a challenging hike.
Black Elk Peak, Trail #9 (the Northern Route) –Note: this is NOT the main Black Elk Peak trail, this is the longer, more difficult route that summits the peak from the north.
I hope you enjoy these trails! Leave me a comment and let me know what you thought of your hike!
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