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
This was a really cool hike, passing through the Cathedral Spires as you make your way to the tallest point in South Dakota. Once at the top you have great views towards Wind Caves and the rest of the Black Hills. In addition, there is a cool observation tower that sits atop Harney.
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 Little Devil's Tower in the Black Hills
Hike to Poet's Table
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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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