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Climbing
Choose from the following to find a site:
There are hundreds of plotted climbing courses for all different skill levels throughout the Black Hills. Several local businesses provide guides and training.
Located in the southern Black Hills, the Wrinkled Rock Climbers trailhead provides parking for Mount Rushmore area rock climbing opportunities. Climbing information, climbers bivy sites and a toilet facility are available.
Climbing the Mount Rushmore sculpture is prohibited. There are many climbing opportunities in the Park on other rock formations. A climbing brochure is available in the Information Center and at the Lincoln Borglum Museum.
Some highlighted areas on the Black Hills National Forest include Spearfish Canyon and the Black Elk Wilderness.
The Needles in Custer State Park also attract thousands of climbers each year.
When conditions permit, the Black Hills National Forest also affords opportunities for ice climbing on spectacular frozen waterfalls. Much of this climbing can be found in Spearfish Canyon which is a widely recognized ice climbing venue.
As the popularity of this sport increases, it is important that everyone help prevent resource damage. Also with it being an unique winter experience, many spectators enjoy watching this sport. Please be cautious and do not stand too close to the climbers and waterfalls as ice can easily break off and fall directly below.
Please Control Your Pet
Some public lands do not allow pets, others enforce leash laws. When pets are allowed in an area, do not let your pets dig, chase wildlife or harass climbers and visitors.
Leave No Trace: Climbing Etiquette
Climbers please do your part to minimize impacts.
Additional Links:
Black Hills Climbers Coalition (non-profit organization)