Once inside the building, we instinctively looked upwards towards the ceiling. This was definitely a fun place to explore. To record the moment, we slowed our pace and snapped some pictures. The pathway zig-zagged its way to the rustic entrance and we admired the architectural beauty of the building as we approached. Instantly, our instinct was to explore the structure and it did not disappoint. Somehow, it seemed out of place yet perfectly suited in its enviroment. The fire tower stopped us in our tracks when we first saw it. The final quarter mile on the trail to the fire tower does level out but has some rock stairs to climb as hikers approach the tower. Be sure to wear proper footwear that grip rock well. Hikers need to be reasonably fit to complete the trail. This trail is generally rated moderate in difficulty but there are steep and challenging inclines along the way. The hike is perfect for solo hikers, couples and small groups who like unique and beautiful places. Why Hike to the Top and to the Fire Tower? We wanted to hike the hard stuff first and finish on Trail 9 which was a downhill cruise from the fire tower. Gail and I definitely wanted to hike the loop and decided to start at Trail 4 (counter clockwise). If you complete the loop you will hike on both trails 9 and 4. For hikers who want to access both Little Devil’s Tower and the Black Elk Fire Tower, this is the best way to go (Cathedral Trail can be accessed from here too). Trail 4 – Located at the furthest southwest corner of the parking area, this route is steeper and more challenging. Hikers who complete the loop and start here are walking in a clockwise direction on the trail. The trailhead is located near the footbridge leading to the swim beach. Trail 9 – The easiest and most used route to the fire tower. Loop trail map to Black Elk Peak and fire tower. We had no issues finding a spot to park, however by the time we returned, the parking lot was pretty full.īecause the trail is a loop, there are two different trailheads (both located near the parking area). Arriving early, we started hiking soon after we got there. The day we were there, we found the parking to be suitable but busy.
The parking lot at this location is used by hikers, picnickers and other park visitors, so there is competition for parking spaces. There are two trailheads near the Sylvan Lake Day Use Area north of SD 87. When standing in the tower, hikers enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of the Black Hills. The stately structure is fun to explore and adds a unique sense of adventure to this outing.Īlthough the fire tower is no longer used in an official capacity, it is open daily for all to enjoy.
Perched on top of the mountain sits a historic stone fire tower structure that was completed by the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp) in 1940. At the summit, hikers stand on a 7,242-foot granite mountain that is the highest point in South Dakota. The 7.5-mile loop starts near Sylvan Lake and winds its way through the Black Forest Wilderness area. Hiking the Black Elk Peak Trail is considered by many to be the best hike in Custer State Park.
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