6 ways to enjoy the Black Hills National Forest this winter

Winter is a great time to explore your Black Hills National Forest! Working with our Recreation Specialists, we have compiled a list of 6 ways to enjoy the Forest this winter. Please note: Conditions vary thoughout the winter and snow/ice/accessibility may or may not be available at the below mentioned locations at any given time.

• 1. Interagency Snowmobile Trail

  

  Snowmobiling is one of the most popular activities that visitors take part in across the forest.

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• 2. Cross Country Skiing

  

  From grand vistas overlooking canyons to meandering trails darting through aspen and pine forests, recreationalists can find a variety of terrains and trails.

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• 3. Stay a night or more in the Historic Summit Ridge Cabin

  

  While the main camping season on the Black Hills National Forest, which typically runs Memorial Day through Labor Day, has come to a close, the Historic Summit Ridge Cabin remains open for public use after the regular season.

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• 4. Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking

  

  There are many snowshoe and winter hiking opportunities across the Forest including the Hell Canyon Trail, Willow Creek Trail #8 Loop, Iron Creek Trail #15 from Lakota Lake, Black Elk Peak, Dugout Gulch, Old Baldy, Rimrock and Little Spearfish trails. These trails can be challenging in the winter but offer a beauty all their own.

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• 5. Fat Biking

  

  Several fat bike trails exist on the Northern Hills and Bearlodge Ranger Districts. Fat bikes have oversized tires and low ground pressure that allows the user to ride off-road surfaces such as snow.

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• 6. Ice Fishing

  

  Ice Fishing is allowed on all lakes in the Black Hills National Forest. The three largest lakes on the Forest are Pactola Reservoir, Deerfield Reservoir and Sheridan Lake. Smaller lakes include Roubaix Lake and Dalton Lake.

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