Black Hills National Forest offers some of the most spectacular outdoor recreational opportunities in South Dakota. The Black Hills, Paha Sapa to the Lakota (meaning Black Hills), appear black when viewed from a distance because of the dense stands of Ponderosa Pines that cover the landscape. The Black Hill includes attractions such as Mount Rushmore, Bear Butte, Wind Cave National Park, Custer State Park and many more. The Black Hills are home to over 350 miles of hiking trails for individuals of varying abilities.
Harney Peak, 7,242 feet, is the highest point between the Rocky Mountains to the west and the Pyrenees Mountains in Europe to the east. Harney Peak provides incredible panoramic views into Wyoming, Nebraska and other areas of South Dakota. Harney Peak is surrounded by and accessible thru the Black Elk Wilderness. The Black Elk Wilderness, named for the Lakota holy man, received special protection by an act of congress under the provisions of the
Wilderness Act of 1964.
