Horsethief Lake Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Cave · Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This is an 11-mile loop with the option to add an "out-and-back" to Mt. Rushmore via the Mt. Rushmore Spur Trail. It takes you into the heart of the Black Elk Wilderness Area, where camping opportunities abound.

This is a singletrack trail and is generally in good condition, although sections of Centennial On Hell #89-HC are heavily damaged by horse traffic and wet conditions.

This trail offers amazing views of the Black Hills most people don't see, because they won't get away from the tourist traps.

This is a long run, so bring water (and lunch) and spend the day. Or, bring a tent and spend the night.

You'll travel on the following trails:
Horsethief Lake #14
Grizzly #7
Centennial On Hell #89-HC

Trail junctions are clearly marked, but the trail is not, so having a map and being able to read it helps greatly.