Best Backpacking in South Dakota

This list represents the most popular backpacking in South Dakota. Use this list to plan your next South Dakota backpacking trip. Select a state and/or activity below to find even more top trails.

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#1. Harney Peak Loop Trail


A series of trails through wilderness and exceptional wildlife habitat. Hikers eventually reach Harney Peak. Willow Creek Loop Trail provides vistas of Harney Peak, a bird’s-eye view of the spires of…
From the guidebook "Hiking South Dakota's Black Hills Country"
Custer, SD - Backpacking, Hiking - 10.5 miles Best Trail in sd - Click to view all (About Top Trails)
Published by Falcon Guides

#2. The Centennial Trail


The Centennial Trail has a lofty beginning and magnificent ending. If one proceeds from north to south, the trail begins at Bear Butte and Bear Butte Lake, where Crazy Horse presided over a Council of…
From the guidebook "Hiking South Dakota's Black Hills Country"
Rapid City, SD - Backpacking, Hiking - 111 miles Best Trail in sd - Click to view all (About Top Trails)
Published by Falcon Guides

#3. French Creek Natural Area


An overnight backpack into a pristine natural area along a gorge of unique rock formations, with numerous creek fordings. Of course, you always have the option of hiking in from either end and backtra…
From the guidebook "Hiking South Dakota's Black Hills Country"
Custer, SD - Backpacking, Hiking - 12 miles Best Trail in sd - Click to view all (About Top Trails)
Published by Falcon Guides

#4. George S. Mickelson Trail


According to its namesake and founder, George S. Mickelson, "This trail may be our last opportunity to provide a pathway that is easily used by the elderly, people with disabilities and the very young…
From the guidebook "Hiking South Dakota's Black Hills Country"
Rapid City, SD - Backpacking, Hiking - 50 miles
Published by Falcon Guides

#5. Deerfield Trail


Suitable for both hikers and mountain bikers, the Deerfield Trail slices through segments of the nation's history and some of the Black Hills' more pristine country.…
From the guidebook "Hiking South Dakota's Black Hills Country"
Hill City, SD - Backpacking, Hiking - 18 miles
Published by Falcon Guides

#6. Lewis & Clark Trail: South Dakota


This eTrail was written for travelers along the Lewis and Clark Trail. Inside you'll find a map and detailed directions to all the sites and attractions related to the Lewis & Clark expedition in thi…
From the guidebook "Traveling the Lewis and Clark Trail"
Pierre, SD - Backpacking, Hiking
Published by Falcon Guides

#7. Badlands National Park: Sage Creek Basin


This backcountry route weaves through pinnacled formations, serpentine washes, and expansive grasslands in Badlands National Park’s Sage Creek Wilderness Area.…
From the guidebook "Backpacker The National Parks Coast to Coast"
Wall, SD - Backpacking, Hiking - 22 miles
Published by Falcon Guides