Harney Peak, South Dakota

The hike up to Harney Peak in Custer State Park, SD is a long one.  You can stay in the park or drive in and walk from one of the parking lots near Sylvan Lake.  Block out a full day for this hike.  Eat breakfast, take a lunch, and enjoy a dinner somewhere special after.  I suggest a shower before dinner.

Harney Peak is the highest natural point in South Dakota.  It is nestled in the Black Hills near Mount Rushmore.  It is also the highest summit in the U.S. east of the Rocky Mountains.  Harney Peak was once used as a fire lookout and the tower that was used is still on the peak.  You can go all the way to the top.

If you want to stay in the park and start your trip nice and early you can stay at Sylvan Lake Lodge or in one of the cabins around the lodge.

If you are in amazing shape you can start you walk up to the peak with a nice stroll around Sylvan Lake.  If you need all of your energy you skip the lake and take that trip at another time.  The is parking at the lake and there is parking a little further to the east.

The Trail 9 starts north of the lake.  Trail 4 to the east has more of the extra items to see like Little Devil’s Tower and Cathedral Spires.  If you plan on taking these side trails I suggest going to them first so that you have the energy and sense to stay safe getting to them.  The Little Devil’s tower trail is nothing to take lightly.

The view from the northern trail, Trail 9 is pretty.  I love the fact that they warning signs suggest staying off ledges when it is lightning, but with this statement it suggests that you can walk on any ledge you want at any other time.

The reality is that rock climbing in the area is permitted.  You enter at your own risk.  You are responsible for your own actions.

Bring water and a snack for the top.  Water to keep hydrated, you will need it.  The snack is sort of a victory meal for making it.  Plus you will probably be on the trails or at the top at meal time.  Also bring a camera.  The view is amazing.