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- Black Elk Peak
7,244 ft · Black Hills, South Dakota
Black Elk Peak
Black Elk Peak is a 7,244 ft peak in the Black Hills, South Dakota. The standard route is the Black Elk Peak Loop: 7 mi, 1,459 ft of gain, Class 1.
Black Elk Peak at a glance
- Elevation7,244 ft2,207 m
- RouteBlack Elk Peak LoopClass 1
- Distance7 mi1,459 ft gain
- Time3 – 5 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Oct
- RangeBlack HillsSouth Dakota
Climbing the Black Elk Peak Loop
From Custer, South Dakota, drive north into Custer State Park (a park entrance license is required to enter) and follow signs to Sylvan Lake. Trail #9 offers the most scenic approach, winding through granite spires and ponderosa pine forest, and popular loops connect with the Cathedral Spires Trail. Summer thunderstorms are very common in the Black Hills, so start early to be off the summit by early afternoon. Expect significant crowds on summer weekends. The historic fire lookout tower at the top offers 360-degree views. No technical skills required.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (20–30 L)
Water
First-Aid Kit
Offline Maps
Hiking Boots
Midlayer
Sun Hat
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
What to watch for
- Storms
- High winds
- Steep exposure
- Low visibility
- Loose rock
- Slippery terrain
Black Elk Peak on Yak
Climbers have shared 11 climbs of Black Elk Peak on Yak. Read their trip reports and recent conditions in the app
Quests with Black Elk Peak
50 State HighpointsFrequently asked questions
How tall is Black Elk Peak?
Black Elk Peak is 7,244 feet (2,207 m) tall. It is in the Black Hills, South Dakota.
Is Black Elk Peak the highest point in South Dakota?
Yes. At 7,244 feet, Black Elk Peak is the highest point in South Dakota.
How hard is it to hike Black Elk Peak?
The Black Elk Peak Loop is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 7 miles with 1,459 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Black Elk Peak?
Most people take 3 – 5 hours round trip on the Black Elk Peak Loop, covering 7 miles with 1,459 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Black Elk Peak?
Usually, if you are fit. The Black Elk Peak Loop is a common first summit for hikers ready for 3 – 5 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Black Elk Peak?
The usual hiking window is May to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Black Elk Peak?
The Black Elk Peak Loop starts at about 6,170 feet, roughly 1,074 feet below the summit.
Climb Black Elk Peak with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list