- Region
- SD, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Confirm wilderness permit requirements, ap…
- Managed by
- U.S. Forest Service — Black Hills National Forest
Plan with verified data
Black Elk Wilderness trip tools
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Photos of Black Elk Wilderness
How to get there
Black Elk Wilderness lies in central Black Hills National Forest in western South Dakota, immediately south of Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Select and verify a designated trailhead using Forest Service maps before setting out; the wilderness interior is not accessible by motor vehicle. Check current road alerts, including Highway 385 construction information if that highway is part of the approach.
- Black Hills National Forest
The surrounding national forest is the starting point for access planning. Obtain Forest Service maps and confirm a designated wilderness trailhead; this name identifies the managing forest, not a specific parking area or trail entrance.
- Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
The preserve surrounds Black Elk Wilderness and shares the broader trail network. Use a current map to identify an appropriate starting point and wilderness connection; the preserve itself is not a single trailhead.
Sources: fs.usda.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory · Wikipedia. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
SD, USA · United States
- Hunting
- Climbing
- Mountaineering
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Backpacking
- Photography
Granite peaks in the central Black Hills
Black Elk Wilderness occupies the Harney Range in the center of Black Hills National Forest in western South Dakota. Its terrain combines rugged granite spires, craggy peaks and rocky slopes with forested valleys of ponderosa pine, spruce and fir. Black Elk Peak rises to 7,242 feet, the highest point in South Dakota, with views into four states from its summit. Mount Rushmore National Memorial lies immediately north, while other state and federal protected lands border much of the wilderness. Designated in 1980, this is a place for non-motorized travel rather than a scenic drive through the interior. Choose an outing around the terrain and the available trail connections, not simply the apparent proximity of nearby attractions. Rocky ground and a summit objective call for sturdy footwear, sufficient water and time to return comfortably.
Sacred land and wildlife habitat
The wilderness is named for Black Elk, an Oglala Lakota holy man, and encompasses land long held sacred by Native Americans. That cultural importance deserves the same care as the landscape itself: leave natural features undisturbed and keep visits respectful. Surrounding the wilderness, the 35,000-acre Norbeck Wildlife Preserve is managed for wildlife and breeding birds. Deer, elk, turkey and mountain lions inhabit this broader landscape of granite spires and forest. Mountain goats and bighorn sheep occupy rugged slopes, while hawks and falcons are also part of the wilderness ecosystem. Watch wildlife from a distance and avoid approaching animals for photographs. The contrast between rocky heights and wooded valleys makes observation worthwhile throughout a walk, rather than only at a summit. Keep food secure and give animals room to move without being followed.
Trail planning and wilderness travel
More than 50 miles of trails serve Black Elk Wilderness and the surrounding Norbeck Wildlife Preserve together; that figure is not a mileage total for the wilderness alone. About eight miles of the South Dakota Centennial Trail lie within the wilderness, offering another planning focus besides Black Elk Peak. Travel here is primitive and non-motorized, and bicycles and other mechanized vehicles are not allowed in the wilderness. Download maps before leaving and use Forest Service maps to verify trail connections, boundaries and the intended starting point. Check current Forest Service alerts, fire restrictions and road information before driving out. Confirm permit requirements with Black Hills National Forest for the specific activity and access location. Carry water, food, layers and navigation tools suitable for a self-supported outing through rocky mountain terrain.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Black Elk Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 43.8606, -103.5083
- Latitude (DMS)
- 43° 51′ 38.0″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 103° 30′ 29.8″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Black Elk Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
The Black Elk Wilderness lies in the center of the Black Hills National Forest in western South Dakota. The wilderness encompasses the Harney Range and Black Elk Peak, an area long held sacred by Native...
Key takeaways
- Region: SD, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 43.861, -103.508
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Black Elk Wilderness
- Hunting
Seasons, tags, and the units that hold animals.
- Climbing
Rock and alpine lines with approach beta.
- Mountaineering
Glacier and high-route objectives with real consequence.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
- Wildlife Viewing
Best light, best season, and where animals move.
- Backpacking
Multi-day travel with everything on your back — see the packing blocks below.
Animals around Black Elk Wilderness
Granite peaks in the central Black Hills
Black Elk Wilderness occupies the Harney Range in the center of Black Hills National Forest in western South Dakota. Its terrain combines rugged granite spires, craggy peaks and rocky slopes with forested valleys of ponderosa pine, spruce and fir. Black Elk Peak rises to 7,242 feet, the highest point in South Dakota, with views into four states from its summit. Mount Rushmore National Memorial lies immediately north, while other state and federal protected lands border much of the wilderness. Designated in 1980, this is a place for non-motorized travel rather than a scenic drive through the interior. Choose an outing around the terrain and the available trail connections, not simply the apparent proximity of nearby attractions. Rocky ground and a summit objective call for sturdy footwear, sufficient water and time to return comfortably.
Sacred land and wildlife habitat
The wilderness is named for Black Elk, an Oglala Lakota holy man, and encompasses land long held sacred by Native Americans. That cultural importance deserves the same care as the landscape itself: leave natural features undisturbed and keep visits respectful. Surrounding the wilderness, the 35,000-acre Norbeck Wildlife Preserve is managed for wildlife and breeding birds. Deer, elk, turkey and mountain lions inhabit this broader landscape of granite spires and forest. Mountain goats and bighorn sheep occupy rugged slopes, while hawks and falcons are also part of the wilderness ecosystem. Watch wildlife from a distance and avoid approaching animals for photographs. The contrast between rocky heights and wooded valleys makes observation worthwhile throughout a walk, rather than only at a summit. Keep food secure and give animals room to move without being followed.
Trail planning and wilderness travel
More than 50 miles of trails serve Black Elk Wilderness and the surrounding Norbeck Wildlife Preserve together; that figure is not a mileage total for the wilderness alone. About eight miles of the South Dakota Centennial Trail lie within the wilderness, offering another planning focus besides Black Elk Peak. Travel here is primitive and non-motorized, and bicycles and other mechanized vehicles are not allowed in the wilderness. Download maps before leaving and use Forest Service maps to verify trail connections, boundaries and the intended starting point. Check current Forest Service alerts, fire restrictions and road information before driving out. Confirm permit requirements with Black Hills National Forest for the specific activity and access location. Carry water, food, layers and navigation tools suitable for a self-supported outing through rocky mountain terrain.
Route options
- Black Elk Peak
A summit objective within the wilderness, reaching South Dakota's highest point at 7,242 feet. Views extend into four states. Choose a mapped approach and verify its trailhead and full itinerary before departure.
- South Dakota Centennial Trail — wilderness segmentAbout 8 miles within the wilderness
Follow a portion of the long-distance trail within Black Elk Wilderness. The stated mileage covers the trail inside the wilderness, not a complete outing from a parking area; verify entry points, connections and return arrangements.
Sample itineraries
- Black Elk Peak day hike · 1 day
Plan a day hike to Black Elk Peak, South Dakota’s highest mountain at 7,242 feet. Select an approach using Forest Service maps and confirm current trail conditions before leaving. Allow time for the rocky mountain terrain, and treat this sacred landscape with respect.
- South Dakota Centennial Trail sampler · 1 day
Choose an out-and-back hike on the South Dakota Centennial Trail within Black Elk Wilderness. About eight miles of the trail lie in the wilderness; that is not a suggested round-trip distance. Use a current map to identify access and set a turnaround suited to the group.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring; confirm current mountain conditions
Plan conservatively for changing weather in the Harney Range. Check trail conditions before choosing a route, carry layers, and adjust summit plans to the forecast.
Summer
Summer; check forecasts and fire information
Carry water and sun protection for time on rocky slopes and peaks. Check current Forest Service fire danger and restrictions rather than assuming conditions remain unchanged.
Fall
Fall; confirm weather and daylight before departure
Carry insulating layers and leave enough daylight for the return through rugged terrain. Verify current conditions rather than relying on a fixed seasonal hiking window.
Winter
Winter; verify access and trail conditions
Treat a mountain outing as weather-dependent. Carry cold-weather protection and choose a route appropriate to current footing, visibility, and the group’s experience.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring; confirm current mountain conditions | Plan conservatively for changing weather in the Harney Range. Check trail conditions before choosing a route, carry layers, and adjust summit plans to the forecast. |
| Summer | Summer; check forecasts and fire information | Carry water and sun protection for time on rocky slopes and peaks. Check current Forest Service fire danger and restrictions rather than assuming conditions remain unchanged. |
| Fall | Fall; confirm weather and daylight before departure | Carry insulating layers and leave enough daylight for the return through rugged terrain. Verify current conditions rather than relying on a fixed seasonal hiking window. |
| Winter | Winter; verify access and trail conditions | Treat a mountain outing as weather-dependent. Carry cold-weather protection and choose a route appropriate to current footing, visibility, and the group’s experience. |
Permits, fees & closures
Confirm wilderness permit requirements, applicable fees, and any reservation requirements with the Black Hills National Forest before your trip.
Official source: Black Hills National Forest - USDA Forest Service · Verified October 19, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Craggy peaks, granite spires, and rocky slopes require careful footing. Choose terrain within the group’s ability.
- Mountain lions live in the area. Keep children close, give wildlife space, and do not approach animals.
- Wildfire conditions can affect trip planning. Check current Forest Service alerts, fire danger, and restrictions before departure.
- The primitive trail network requires navigation preparation. Download maps before leaving and carry a backup rather than depending on a live connection.
What to pack for Black Elk Wilderness
- Downloaded Forest Service maps
- Paper map and compass
- Headlamp
- Route plan shared with a trusted contact
- Footwear with traction for rocky slopes
- Insulating layer
- Rain and wind protection
- Sun protection
- Drinking water
- Food and extra snacks
- First-aid kit
- Bag for packing out trash
Black Elk Wilderness FAQ
- Where is Black Elk Wilderness?
- It lies in the center of Black Hills National Forest in western South Dakota, encompassing the Harney Range and Black Elk Peak. Mount Rushmore National Memorial is immediately to the north.
- How extensive is the trail network?
- The wilderness and surrounding Norbeck Wildlife Preserve together offer more than 50 miles of primitive, non-motorized trails. That total is not confined to the wilderness boundary. About eight miles of the South Dakota Centennial Trail pass through the wilderness.
- Are bicycles or motorized vehicles allowed?
- Motorized and mechanized vehicles, including bicycles, are not allowed in the wilderness. Motorized recreation opportunities elsewhere in Black Hills National Forest do not extend into this wilderness.
- Why is the area called Black Elk Wilderness?
- It is named for Black Elk, an Oglala Lakota holy man. The Harney Range and Black Elk Peak are long held sacred by Native Americans. Visit respectfully and leave natural and cultural features undisturbed.
- Can the mapped inventory point be used for access?
- No. The inventory point lies inside the wilderness but is not a trailhead, campsite, or access point. Use Forest Service maps to identify an appropriate starting location.
- Who manages the wilderness?
- The U.S. Forest Service manages Black Elk Wilderness as part of Black Hills National Forest. Check with the forest for current alerts, maps, access conditions, and trip requirements.