11/10/2023 0 Comments Hike to harney peak![]() ![]() Our group loved the hike and being on top of the granite outcropping that is the highest point east of the rocks. This is why I felt compelled to initiate an attraction on Tripadvisor for others to know about it.įor me this was the perfect hike, 8 mile round trip loop and 1,600 feet of elevation, with lots to see, the peak and Cathedral Spires. While it looms over Mount Rushmore, the back of which is visible from the peak, it was relatively empty compared to other Black Hills attractions. Black Elk Peak is the highest point in the Black Hills, South Dakota and for that matter, Anywhere east of the Rockies. While you may not have heard of it, it is likely you saw it as you approached the Black Hills. In between Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore National Monument, the two most popular Black Hills attractions, sits my favorite Black Hills attraction, the hike to Black Elk Peak. The only negative about Cathedral Spires Trail is that parking at its trailhead can be difficult you would definitely want to start this hike early. It’s a longer route, but Cathedral Spires is a great trail, and once you’ve hiked to the top, you’re already 1/3 of the way up to Black Elk Peak. If you are also planning to hike Cathedral Spires Trail, you can combine the two trails by hiking up to Black Elk Peak via Cathedral Spires Trail- 7.2 miles, 1532 feet up. The last portion is all stair-climbing which was tiring but not difficult. The trail goes through beautiful lush meadows with views of the Cathedral Spires on the way you can eventually see your goal, Harney Tower, off in the distance. ![]() This hike is 6.4 miles out and back with a climb of 1276 feet. There are multiple trails up to Black Elk Peak, but we took the easiest route, the one that starts via Little Devils Tower trail. The trail ends at the highest point east of the Rockies, with 360 degree views of the surrounding area, and an observation tower to climb (Harney Tower). If you enjoy hiking, this is the hike you must do when visiting Custer State Park, although I would rank Cathedral Spires a close second.
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