This Canyon Trail In South Dakota Is The Perfect Black Hills Adventure
By Catherine Armstrong|Published May 25, 2018
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
South Dakota’s Black Hills are the perfect place for a weekend adventure, and this trail just west of Custer is one that you definitely need to check out.
Don't let the name fool you; the Hell Canyon trail is heaven on earth.
This trail is located near Custer. To find the trailhead, take U.S. Highway 16 west of Custer, past Jewel Cave National Monument, then follow the signs.
This pretty, 5.6-mile loop trail has an elevation climb of 853 feet, and you'll definitely feel the burn during the first half mile, unless you travel counter-clockwise along the loop.
Watch for interesting features, such as this little cave. You might also notice the remnants of the Jasper Fire of 2000, which ravaged this pretty canyon.
The views along the bluff are gorgeous! Though you can complete this hike in as little as two hours, you might want to allow extra time for gawking at Mother Nature's splendor.
Have you ever hiked Hell Canyon? Give our readers any tips you might have. If you’re hiking in the Black Hills this summer, you might want to check out these 10 hikes that are some of the best in the Black Hills.
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