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Details

Distance

2.8 miles

Elevation Gain

5200 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Kaitlyn Janak

This trail will give you views of Black Elk Peak (formerly Harney Peak) and the spires of Elkhorn Mountain, and a hike through some of the Black Hills’ largest ponderosas. PLUS you get to see (and play in if you're up for it) a beautiful waterfall at the creek crossing!

The trailhead is located at the Willow Creek Horse Camp. This trail doesn't allow motorized vehicles but you may share it with some horses depending on when you venture onto the trail.

The trail itself is pretty easy, it will take about 1.5-2 hours depending on your pace and is shaded for about half of the hike. 

You'll get to Willow Creek about a third of the way through the hike where you can take a break, stick your feet in the creek, and enjoy the views of the stream fed waterfall.

After enjoying the icy water, the trail will lead you to a valley with an amazing view of Black Elk Peak (formerly Harney Peak).

Continue on the loop and you'll end up back at the horse camp. After the hike take Hwy 224 back into Keystone to take in some views of Mount Rushmore! 

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Forest
Romantic
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Horse Thief Lake Trail

Rock Climb at 1880 Wall

Hiking to Harney Peak

Sylvan Lake Shore Trail

Black Elk Peak and Little Devil's Tower Loop

Hike Sunday Gulch Loop

Go Great Places in South Dakota

In the Mount Rushmore state, travels to South Dakota are full of one-of-a-kind adventure with wide-open spaces as endless as the horizons. Between legendary landscapes and scenic drives, you can always find space that shifts life into park. When you’re ready, go great places.

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