South Dakota is home to some of our nation’s greatest peaks and valleys, and there’s no better way to see our beautiful state than to get out and go hiking. This hike just outside of Black Hills isn’t just beautiful, it’s completely inspiring. Be prepared for this trail that’s of moderate difficulty, but don’t forget to stop, rest, and take in the beauty of it all as you’ll be hiking upon sacred ground.

Hiking up to Bear Butte's summit in South Dakota is completely inspiring.
CapeCodTraveler11/TripAdvisor
Bear Butte State Park is located just east of Black Hills, and the land is home to much history.
JulieViborgUSA/TripAdvisor
This hike might be just under three miles long, but this trail doesn't get much traffic, and the views are incredible.
Brett Arnez/AllTrails
Not only is Bear Butte beautiful, but it's also sacred ground.
Deanne A/TripAdvisor
This land isn't just a beautiful spot to hike. It's also a holy site for many Plains Indian tribes, like the Lakota and the Cheyenne. Many leaders including Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull have visited this mountain to pray, and it continues to be sacred ground for many. Vision quests, sweat lodges, and other spiritual ceremonies are often held on the mountain, so please be respectful while on your hike.

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This trek is classified as moderate difficulty, so be prepared. It often gets very windy, and takes just over two hours. You'll gain 1,033 feet in elevation.
Sarah Banks/AllTrails
Bear Butte might not be a huge mountain, but it is fascinating. The mountain was formed over millions of years, and was named Bear Butte by the Lakota people, who called it "Mato Paha" which translates to "bear mountain" for its structure that resembles a sleeping bear.
sd2travel/TripAdvisor
Surrounded by prairies, this hike offers some of the most amazing views every mile, start to finish.
Sarah Banks/AllTrails
This hike in South Dakota is completely breathtaking, and so worth seeing firsthand.
Black Hills/Facebook
This hike is open from May to November. You'll find the trailhead in Bear Butte State Park located at N Highway 79, Sturgis, SD.

Have you taken this incredible hike? What did you think? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share your snapshots from your adventures in our South Dakota Nature Lovers Facebook group, or tag us on Instagram at #onlyinsouthdakota to see your photos featured.

Looking for more breathtaking hikes in South Dakota? Check out this one that takes you above the clouds.

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