Harney's Peak - The Black Hills

Harney's Peak - The Black Hills

On our drive to Yellowstone, we decided to make a stop in The Black Hills to hike Harney's Peak, which has since been renamed to Black Elk Peak. Out of all the places we have hiked, this is still one of my favorites! One of my biggest recommendations for this hike is to START EARLY! We started at 8am and no one was on the trail! It was wonderful to hike this by ourselves, as on the way down we noticed it getting very busy! 

Things to know BEFORE you go:

We did this hike on a whim without researching it first, as a friend told us about it last minute and we had the time to squeeze it in and figured why not. Below are some things I wish I had known before hiking it!

• This is a strenuous hike!! It is all uphill and is not an easy hike. 
• The way down is tough on your knees! 
• It is a 1100 foot ascend to the top and WELL WORTH IT!
• Harney Peak Trail Number 9 from Sylvan Lake is the most common route to the summit
• While this hike is strenuous, it doesn't require any technical hiking skills
• Takes about 4-5 hours
• Bring A LOT of water and a hiking pack. We saw people doing it and only carrying a small water bottle. I do not suggest this. You will need more water and you will want a pack so your hands are free.
• Bring a small snack to enjoy at the top! There are plenty of places to sit, relax, and enjoy the views once you reach the top! And you will want a snack to help regain your energy! 
• Hiking shoes or boots are a must!
• There is another hike called Little Devil's Tower that is on the way up Harney's Peak. We did it and it only added a half an hour to the trip. It is supposed to be a pretty view, however it was so foggy we weren't able to see much! Be careful if it is foggy. We almost walked off a cliff as we could not see far in front of us! I would suggest doing it if you have the time!
• Right before you reach the top you will come to A LOT of stairs! They feel like they will never end but you are close!
• The views the entire hike are also beautiful! This is one of the things we really enjoyed about this hike as it isn't just the same thing the entire time. The landscapes change and you get to see pretty rock formations, cliffs, and wooded forests throughout! Very enjoyable the entire way up!

View about an hour in

Detour hike to Little Devil's Tower

Almost there!

Made it!!

Overall, Sam and I would give this hike 5 out of 5 stars! WE LOVED IT! It is absolutely well worth the tiring uphill battle! The views at the top are stunning! We spent almost an hour at the top taking pictures, eating, and just taking in the views! This is the highest point in South Dakota and once you reach the top, you can tell! You are at the same height as the clouds and can see for miles! We HIGHLY recommend this hike!!!