At 7,242 ft. Black Elk Peak is not only the highest point in South Dakota it is arguably the best and most popular hike in the state. Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, there are several trails that lead to the summit. Hikers who reach the summit are rewarded with panoramic views of 5 states from the historic stone Fire Tower that sits atop the granite peak.
I have done this hike several times and my favorite route is going up Trail #9S and coming down on Trail #4. This loop is a little over 7 miles and ascends over 1200 ft. The Hiking Project rates this hike as Intermediate/Difficult, I personally feel that this rating really depends on your experience. For an avid hiker I would say that this is a moderate hike. For the casual hiker or someone new to hiking this could be a difficult hike. The last time we did this hike was early October. The weather was cool in the morning and hot in the afternoon. Make sure you bring plenty of water as there are no good places to fill up on the trail.
Previously known as Harney Peak, the peak was renamed in 2016 in honor of the revered Oglala Lakota (Sioux) holy man, Nicholas Black Elk. As a child Black Elk experienced a vision in which he was taken to the central mountain of the world. After speaking publicly of his vision Black Elk began on a path to become a holy man, traditional healer, and visionary. This name change recognized the significance of the peak and the Black Hills to the Native Americans.
The trails to Black Elk Peak are well maintained and easy to follow, the first 2 miles of trail #9S is relatively easy with the majority of the climbing done in the mile leading up to the peak. Keep an eye out as you make your way up the trail as the Fire Tower can be easily spotted from numerous vantage points. Once you are at the base of the peak follow the stone stairs that lead to a natural tunnel hiding the stairs to the summit.
The Fire Tower, stairway, pump house and dam atop Black Elk Peak were built from 1935 to 1938 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The stones used to build the Fire Tower were gathered from a nearby creek and all of the materials were hauled by man and mule. The Fire Tower was used by the U.S. Forest Service until 1965 and then 2 years by Custer State Park. The stone structure housed living quarters on the main level with electricity, plumbing, and central heat. The top level served as the fire lookout and provided a panoramic view of the Black Hills National Forest. The pumphouse and concrete dam were designed and built to provide fresh water (blueprintssouthdakota.com).
The descent on Trail #4 begins at the Norbeck trail junction about half a mile below the summit of Black Elk Peak. Follow the Norbeck trail for about a mile until the trail forks, continues South-West on Trail #4. The scenery on this route is spectacular as it passes amazing granite formations; be on the lookout for rock climbers and mountain goats as they both frequent this area.
The hike to Black Elk Peak will always hold a special place in my heart. The first time I did this hike I was 8 years old and each time I come here I grow a deeper appreciation for it. If you visit the Black Hills I highly recommend adding a hike to Black Elk Peak to your itineray.
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