This Small South Dakota Town Is A True Hiker's Paradise
By Catherine Armstrong|Published April 27, 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.
There’s no better way to get up close and personal with South Dakota’s natural beauty than by taking a hike on one of our many gorgeous trails. Lace up your hiking boots, because this town in South Dakota’s Black Hills is a hiker’s paradise.
You'll find the town of Custer just 40 miles southwest of Rapid City. This pretty town is surrounded by the beauty of the Black Hills, and it's the gateway to some of the best recreation and hiking in the state.
You don't have to go far to find great hiking here. Big Rock Park overlooks Custer, and you'll find a fun, challenging trail that culminates in a killer view of the town.
The Mickelson Trail is a 109-mile-long trail reaching from Deadwood all the way south to Edgemont, and there's a section that runs right through Custer. You'll find the trailhead at Harbach Centennial Park.
Nearby Custer State Park draws thousands of visitors every year, but many never leave their cars or campsites long enough to truly experience the beauty here.
You'll find several trailheads at Lake Sylvan, but don't forget to hike around the lake itself. This easy, one-mile loop takes you right next to the water, up some stairs, and through the shady trees.
Check out our recent article about Sylvan Lake here.
The Cathedral Spires Trail is 1.6 miles out and back, and considered moderately difficult. You'll see the park's famous rock formations, and can even do some rock climbing, if you're so inclined.
The Sunday Gulch Trail is rated as difficult because of all the stairs you'll climb during the 2.8-mile-long journey, but your effort is well worth it.
We recently featured the Sunday Gulch Trail. Read more about it here.
Lovers Leap offers spectacular views, and a heartbreaking tale. Legend says that a Native American couple leaped to their deaths here when they weren't allowed to marry. You'll stay on the trail, of course, and enjoy the Black Hills scenery.
