Sometimes you just want to get outside and enjoy nature without committing to hours of trudging through the woods. This spot near Custer is perfect for those kinds of days. It is, in fact, one of the best hikes in South Dakota.
Here’s why the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail should be your next quick and easy hike in South Dakota.
The Sylvan Lake Shore Trail is a beautiful hike near Custer that’s perfect for explorers of all ages and abilities.
Alltrails/Dave Holder
It’s about 1.1 miles long, meaning you can plan to spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour on the trail, depending on your pace.
Alltrails/Dave Holder
The trail is mostly flat, though there are plenty of boulders to scramble over if you’re so inclined. There are also a few steps to navigate near the lake.
Alltrails/Cris Deeter
When you reach the lake, you’ll be smitten with the beautiful blue water and striking rock formations that line the shore.
Alltrails/Dave Holder
There are plenty of spots to spread a picnic blanket and enjoy the fresh air, though you can also continue to walk along the shore and explore.
Alltrails/Cris Deeter
The trail can get a little busy on sunny days, so plan to arrive early if you want the path to yourself.
Alltrails/Brian Knudtson
There is parking near the trailhead, but again, try to visit during off-peak hours for the best chance at nabbing a spot.
Alltrails/Jess Maxwell
Don’t forget to bring your camera! You’ll definitely want to snap a few photos of those killer views.
Alltrails/Jess Maxwell
The next time you’re in the mood for a quick and breezy hike in South Dakota, go ahead and check out the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail.
Alltrails/Mark Montayne
Do you agree that this is one of the best hikes in South Dakota? Let us know in the comments! To learn more about the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail, including detailed directions, check out the trail’s AllTrails listing here.
Alltrails/Dave Holder
Alltrails/Cris Deeter
Alltrails/Brian Knudtson
Alltrails/Jess Maxwell
Alltrails/Mark Montayne
For more of the best hikes in South Dakota, take a look at some of our other favorite trails.
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Address: Sylvan Lake Shore Trailhead, Unnamed Road, Custer, SD 57730, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes In South Dakota March 24, 2022 Beth Price-Williams Are there any kid-friendly hikes in South Dakota? Any kid who gets to visit and to explore South Dakota is pretty darn lucky. Those who are fortunate to grow up here? Jackpot! One of the best ways to while away the time in our beautiful state is to go on a leisurely hike. Fortunately, we don’t have a shortage of easy hikes in South Dakota the entire family will love. For gorgeous views and a fun history lesson, follow the half-mile Presidential Trail at Mount Rushmore. It’s a picture-perfect way to spend a relaxing hour or two. If the whole gang’s up for a bit of a longer trek, follow the 2.1-mile out and back trail to Roughlock Falls. The trail meanders through the Black Hills National Forest and features an overlook right at the waterfall. It’s kid-friendly, easy, and dripping with natural beauty. Bring your binoculars along for a bit of birdwatching if you decide to take the Spring Creek Loop Trail. It tallies 4.2 miles and the best part about it? That fresh mountain air. Where can I find scenic hikes in South Dakota? We can all probably agree that South Dakota has, hands down, some of the most gorgeous scenery in the United States, maybe even the world. There’s no better way to admire that natural beauty than on one of many of South Dakota’s scenic trails. If you prefer short and sweet, you can’t get much shorter or sweeter than the half mile Devil’s Gulch Trail, which leads to a picturesque canyon. (You really don’t want to forget your camera on this trail.) For those who enjoy a good ghost tale or two – and maybe the chance to experience the paranormal – look no further than the Travel of the Spirits, a shady trail that’s said to be haunted. On those hot summer days, you can’t go wrong taking the short stroll to Cascade Falls, a delightfully cool and popular waterfall and swimming hole.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes In South Dakota
March 24, 2022
Beth Price-Williams
Are there any kid-friendly hikes in South Dakota? Any kid who gets to visit and to explore South Dakota is pretty darn lucky. Those who are fortunate to grow up here? Jackpot! One of the best ways to while away the time in our beautiful state is to go on a leisurely hike. Fortunately, we don’t have a shortage of easy hikes in South Dakota the entire family will love. For gorgeous views and a fun history lesson, follow the half-mile Presidential Trail at Mount Rushmore. It’s a picture-perfect way to spend a relaxing hour or two. If the whole gang’s up for a bit of a longer trek, follow the 2.1-mile out and back trail to Roughlock Falls. The trail meanders through the Black Hills National Forest and features an overlook right at the waterfall. It’s kid-friendly, easy, and dripping with natural beauty. Bring your binoculars along for a bit of birdwatching if you decide to take the Spring Creek Loop Trail. It tallies 4.2 miles and the best part about it? That fresh mountain air. Where can I find scenic hikes in South Dakota? We can all probably agree that South Dakota has, hands down, some of the most gorgeous scenery in the United States, maybe even the world. There’s no better way to admire that natural beauty than on one of many of South Dakota’s scenic trails. If you prefer short and sweet, you can’t get much shorter or sweeter than the half mile Devil’s Gulch Trail, which leads to a picturesque canyon. (You really don’t want to forget your camera on this trail.) For those who enjoy a good ghost tale or two – and maybe the chance to experience the paranormal – look no further than the Travel of the Spirits, a shady trail that’s said to be haunted. On those hot summer days, you can’t go wrong taking the short stroll to Cascade Falls, a delightfully cool and popular waterfall and swimming hole.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Any kid who gets to visit and to explore South Dakota is pretty darn lucky. Those who are fortunate to grow up here? Jackpot! One of the best ways to while away the time in our beautiful state is to go on a leisurely hike. Fortunately, we don’t have a shortage of easy hikes in South Dakota the entire family will love. For gorgeous views and a fun history lesson, follow the half-mile Presidential Trail at Mount Rushmore. It’s a picture-perfect way to spend a relaxing hour or two. If the whole gang’s up for a bit of a longer trek, follow the 2.1-mile out and back trail to Roughlock Falls. The trail meanders through the Black Hills National Forest and features an overlook right at the waterfall. It’s kid-friendly, easy, and dripping with natural beauty. Bring your binoculars along for a bit of birdwatching if you decide to take the Spring Creek Loop Trail. It tallies 4.2 miles and the best part about it? That fresh mountain air.
Where can I find scenic hikes in South Dakota?
We can all probably agree that South Dakota has, hands down, some of the most gorgeous scenery in the United States, maybe even the world. There’s no better way to admire that natural beauty than on one of many of South Dakota’s scenic trails. If you prefer short and sweet, you can’t get much shorter or sweeter than the half mile Devil’s Gulch Trail, which leads to a picturesque canyon. (You really don’t want to forget your camera on this trail.) For those who enjoy a good ghost tale or two – and maybe the chance to experience the paranormal – look no further than the Travel of the Spirits, a shady trail that’s said to be haunted. On those hot summer days, you can’t go wrong taking the short stroll to Cascade Falls, a delightfully cool and popular waterfall and swimming hole.
