Black Elk Peak Mountain

Address: Black Elk Peak, Black Hills, South Dakota (no formal address)

Black Elk Peak is the highest natural point in South Dakota at 7,244 feet (2,208 meters) and is located in the Black Hills of western South Dakota. The summit was officially renamed Black Elk Peak in 2016 to honor the Oglala Lakota spiritual leader Nicholas Black Elk; it was formerly known as Harney Peak.

Marked trails lead to the summit from several trailheads within the Black Hills National Forest and surrounding protected land, and the peak is a frequent day-hike destination offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forest. A stone observation tower stands at the summit and is a notable landmark on the crest.

The peak was long known under its former name from the 19th century and the renaming in 2016 recognized Native American heritage and the significance of Black Elk. The area is managed for recreation and conservation within national-forest and wilderness designations.

Located within the Black Hills National Forest and Black Elk Wilderness in southwestern South Dakota, the peak is reached via forest roads and trailheads and lies within a multi-day drive of regional cities such as Rapid City.

• Summit features: The summit carries a stone observation tower and offers panoramic views across the Black Hills; trails to the summit are well maintained and heavily used in summer months.

Black Elk Peak is reached via Sylvan Lake and the Iron Creek trailheads in Custer State Park. From Rapid City the drive is about 45-60 minutes; park entry fees apply.

• Start before dawn if aiming for sunrise - the ascent rewards early starts with light over the Black Hills.
• Carry navigation aids: paths can be faint in places and conditions change rapidly on the ridge.
• The site has cultural sensitivity for the Oglala Lakota; respect signs and steward guidance at the summit.