Keep an eye out for her and her Rhodesian Ridgeback on the trails in the Southern Hills. Follow the trail along the through the Custer State Park seasonal housing and join the Creekside Trail where you can turn right and continue back to the State Game Lodge Schoolhouse parking lot. At the start there is a very rocky downward hike, the park service has provided handrails as you would likely struggle to climb down without them. 'https://adserver.mediablackhills.com/www/delivery/ajs.php':'http://adserver.mediablackhills.com/www/delivery/ajs.php'); CALL BEFORE YOU RIDE. CUSTER STATE PARK, S.D. We used them nearly every day of the trip. Please dress for the weather. Black Elk Peak via Little Devils Tower Trailhead. She has spent the majority of her career in communications and marketing in the nonprofit sector. #9 of 20 Outdoor Activities in Custer. The Custer State Park ride is not an ordinary ride. Join us for the traditional 1st day hike at Custer State Park. For a Custer State Park trails, click here. And if you happen to need a Band-Aid or a granola bar, she’ll probably have one for you. More than 1.5 million visitors visit Custer State Park each year. Custer State Park is home to four lakes that are fun for water sports, beach play, fishing and camping. Eventually, you’ll end up where you started around 5:15 pm. It's a great place to start your hike to Black Elk Peak or begin a hike around the lake for an easier experience. The park offers excelle… There are trail offshoots along the trail to Poet's Table, Little Devils Tower, and Cathedral Spires for those looking to add a little more adventure to their hike. document.write ("<\/scr"+"ipt>"); In spring or in wet years, there can be water running over the trail, so it prepare for wet feet or bring a pair of sandals for this initial section. Custer State Park is a beautiful Place and a wonderful spot for a family vacation. As you hike, expect to go through a couple of gates in the buffalo fence. Skip the long hike up Black Elk Peak and bag these three shorter hikes in one day. Long pants are also a good idea, unless you enjoy scratching. Also at the top of the ridge, you’ll see that famous sign inviting you to sit on a log and get your sanity back, but don’t sit too long—you’re on a schedule. But don’t sleep in or you’ll have to follow Yoda’s advice, “Choose you must.”. Trail also offers a few great views of Black Elk Peak along the way. Driving times may vary based on traffic in the park. Jump in your car and head to your last stop, the Prairie Trail. Maps and other sources of information about hiking trails may be obtained at park visitor centers, the Custer State Park office, entrance stations and local bookstores. document.write ("?zoneid=21&target=_blank&block=1"); You’ll get a short hike along the Sylvan Lake trail as you head to the trailhead behind the dam. 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