Custer State Park’s Little Devils Tower is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota. This moderately challenging trail offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a unique opportunity to connect with the natural beauty of the region.
Trail Details
The Little Devils Tower trail is approximately 3.6 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of around 600 feet. The trail is generally considered moderately challenging, making it suitable for hikers with some experience.
| Trail Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | 3.6 miles round trip |
| Elevation Gain | Approximately 600 feet |
| Difficulty | Moderately challenging |
Access and Directions
There are two trailheads on Trail 4 that you can use to begin your journey to Little Devils Tower: one at Sylvan Lake and the other at the Little Devils Tower trailhead.
Directions from Major Cities
- From Rapid City: Take Highway 16 for 30 miles to Highway 87, then 6 miles on Highway 87 to Sylvan Lake’s trailhead for Trail 4, or 7 miles to the Little Devils Tower trailhead.
- From Custer: Take Highway 89 north 7 miles to the Sylvan Lake Trail 4 trailhead, or 1 mile further on Highway 87 to the Little Devils Tower trailhead.
- From Hill City: Take Highway 16 south for 3 miles, then 6 miles on Highway 87 to the Sylvan Lake trailhead for Trail 4, or 7 miles to the Little Devils Tower trailhead.
Features and Attractions
The Little Devils Tower trail offers a wealth of natural wonders and stunning vistas for visitors to enjoy.
Summit Views
The summit of Little Devils Tower provides 360-degree views of the Black Hills, including the iconic Black Elk Peak, Cathedral Spires, and Mount Rushmore.
Wildlife
Custer State Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including a large buffalo herd, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, pronghorn antelope, elk, deer, wild turkeys, mountain lions, and feral burros.
Annual Events
The park hosts the annual Bison Roundup in September, attracting thousands of visitors to witness this unique event.
Regulations and Safety
Before embarking on your hike, it’s important to be aware of the park’s regulations and safety considerations.
Park Entrance Fee
There is a state park entrance fee, which may change annually. Be sure to check the South Dakota State Parks website for the latest information.
Camping and Fire Restrictions
Unauthorized campfires, fireworks, or firearms are not allowed in the park. Follow the Custer State Park Regulations for more details.
Weather Considerations
Be prepared for summer lightning and winter blizzards, and exercise caution on slippery summit boulders when wet or covered with snow or ice.
Combining Trails
For a longer and more challenging hike, you can combine the Little Devils Tower trail with the Black Elk Trail, resulting in a 7.7-mile loop.
Combining with Black Elk Trail
Follow the trail to Black Elk instead of Little Devils Tower and then return via the trail to Sylvan Lake for a more extended adventure.
Resources
To help you plan your visit to Custer State Park’s Little Devils Tower, here are some useful resources:
- Custer State Park Trails Guide & Map: Downloadable trails guide and map available on the park’s website.
- Weather Forecast: Check the Little Devils Tower – Custer State Park Weather Forecast & Conditions for the latest weather updates.
References
- Approachable Outdoors. (n.d.). Little Devil’s Tower, South Dakota. Retrieved from https://approachableoutdoors.com/hiking/little-devils-tower-south-dakota/
- TripAdvisor. (n.d.). Little Devil’s Tower Trail. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60865-d7246252-Reviews-Little_Devil_s_Tower_Trail-Custer_South_Dakota.html
- SummitPost. (n.d.). Little Devils Tower. Retrieved from https://www.summitpost.org/little-devils-tower/172671
- AllTrails. (n.d.). Little Devils Tower Spur Trail. Retrieved from https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/south-dakota/little-devils-tower-spur-trail
- Black Hills Hiking, Biking, and More. (n.d.). Little Devil’s Tower Trail. Retrieved from https://www.blackhillshikingbikingandmore.com/little-devils-tower-trail