Hiking to Harney Peak
Keystone, South Dakota
Description
Added by Spud Groshong
Distance: 7 miles roundtrip (out and back). Elevation gain: 5,166 ft. Duration: 4-5 hours. Highest point in South Dakota. Incredible stone lookout. Great views of the black hills.
The Harney Peak Trailhead #9 is located in the northwest corner of the parking lot just beyond Sylvan Lake. From there, the hike is very straight forward – the beginning of the trail is very moderate, being slightly flat with a few ups and downs along the way.
Once you cross into the Black Elk Wilderness (don't forget to fill out the permit before moving forward), the trail descends a little more to the valley floor. On the other side of the valley, the hike intensifies for the last mile or so, heading uphill. The last quarter of a mile is mostly stairs. Once you get to the top, however, you will forget all about the climb, as you are struck by the beautiful views.
At the top of Harney Peak, if you are so inclined, you can hike quite far up on the climbing rocks.
Be sure to bring layers and rain gear with you in the summer months. The weather will change almost at the drop of a hat.
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Hiking to Harney Peak Reviews
We hiked this in the early spring when hardly any one else was on the path. It was a great time to do it and an amazing experience. I recommend taking the longer trail by the cathedral spires and little devil tower to add to the scenery. The peak gives a great 360 view and has awesome history behind the tower.
5.0
It isn't an easy hike, but my 8yr old managed it. The stairs at the end were pretty tall which made them more difficult. The pay off of the CCC castle with a look out tower at the top was more than worth it!
5.0
Did you know that Harney Peak is the tallest peak in the continental United States east of the Rocky Mountains? Happy trails!
5.0
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Nearby
Sylvan Lake Shore Trail
Black Elk Peak and Little Devil's Tower Loop
Hike Sunday Gulch Loop
Kayak Sylvan Lake
Hike to Poet's Table
Hike to Little Devil's Tower in the Black Hills
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