Tour Outline and Map

Trail Guide

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Custer, SD

Significance:

A part of Jewel Cave National Monument

Designation:

National Monument

Amenities

9 listed

Audio Description, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Parking - Auto, Picnic Table, Recycling, Restroom - Seasonal, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles

Hiking Information 

Hiking in the Black Hills is an enjoyable recreational experience. Yet, every so often, things happen which make for frustrating moments or even dangerous conditions. Whether you are hiking at the monument or elsewhere in western South Dakota, it is important to be safe on the trail and know your limits. The following trail tips will help you avoid “bad” situations while on the Historic Area sections of the 3.5-mile (5.6 km) Canyons Trail.

• Never hike alone.
• Alert others to your whereabouts and hiking times.
• Stay on marked trails.
• Pack plenty of water and hiking snacks if needed.
• Do not take any flowers, rocks, or artifacts from the monument.
• Carry a hard copy map of the hiking area.
• Watch for poison ivy, loose rocks, wildlife, and other hazards along the trail.
• Check your body and clothing frequently for ticks.
• Pay close attention to the weather and be aware of any inclement weather forecasts.
• Wear appropriate clothing for seasonal climates.
• Do not commit any form of vandalism, theft, or destruction of property. Jewel Cave National Monument is federal property and is subject to federal laws.
• Report any suspicious behavior and/or safety issues to a park ranger.

Jewel Cave National Monument’s Historic Area’s Self-Guided Tour resides on portions of the Canyons Trail. Given this, below is helpful information about the entirety of the Canyons Trail. The Historic Area Audio Tour will remain in a confined area of the trail but, if interested and safely able, the National Monument encourages visitors to experience the wonder of the Black Hills on this looped route following Jewel Cave’s Historic Area Audio Tour.

Canyons Trail

Total Length: 3.5 miles (5.6 km) Loop
Hiking Time: 2-4 hours
Trail Head: The trail begins at the Historic Area parking lot, heading up the pathway to the Historic Cabin, as well as along the Roof Trail, ~650 feet from the modern-day visitor center. Traveling on U.S. Highway 16, this modern-day visitor center is located ~1 mile east of the historic cabin.
Terrain: Moderate to steep inclines. Not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Features: This trail winds through Hell and Lithograph Canyons into open meadows surrounded by cliffs and rocky outcroppings. During the summer season, the open meadows often display a large assortment of wildflowers, and birdwatching is a popular activity within the canyons year-round.

NOTE: Due to the Jasper Fire in August 2000, the Canyons Trail does not offer many trees for sun protection. Hikers are encouraged to pack plenty of water, wear a hat, and/or apply sunscreen as needed.
 
If in pursuit of a more daunting hike, following your Historic Area Audio Tour and hike on the Canyons Trail, it is recommended to travel westward on U.S. Highway 16 for 0.5 miles (0.8 km) until you reach the Black Hills National Forest’s Hell Canyon Trail. Driving on the roadway, the parking lot for this trail will appear on your right-hand side. Entering U.S. Forest Service land, it is still advisable to follow the previously outlined tips to avoid bad situations.

Black Hills National Forest

If you are looking for a longer and more adventurous trail than those found at Jewel Cave National Monument, the Hell Canyon Trail (Trail Number 32) is another option nearby for hikers. The trail is maintained for hikers, horseback riders, and bicycles; no motorized use is allowed. There is about 500 feet in elevation difference between the parking lot and the canyon overlooks, making the trail challenging, yet enjoyable for the casual hiker.

For additional trail options within the Black Hills National Forest, several day trips are available with links to trail descriptions. For those seeking backcountry experiences, the Forest Service also offers options for two- to three-day trips.
Hell Canyon Trail
Length: 5.3 miles (8.9 km) loop
Hiking Time: 2-4 hours
Trail Head: The trail begins approximately one mile west of the visitor center along Hwy 16; a parking lot is located on the north side of the highway.
Terrain: Moderate to steep inclines. Not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Difficulty: Moderate
Features: This trail ascends a steep incline for about one-half mile, then follows a limestone cliff overlooking Hell Canyon and the surrounding area.