Blacktail Trail

The Blacktail Trail offers visitors a quiet, scenic journey through the rolling mixed‑grass prairies of the Grand River National Grassland in the northwestern part of the South Dakota, near the town of Shadehill. The  7-mile loop trail begins and ends at the Blacktail Trailhead at the Blacktail Picnic Area.

Named for the region’s native black‑tailed prairie dogs, the trail winds through open vistas, gentle draws, and pockets of rugged prairie terrain that showcase the character of the northern Great Plains.

Hikers can expect broad horizons, abundant wildflowers in spring and early summer, and opportunities to spot wildlife including mule deer, pronghorn, raptors, and—of course—prairie dog towns that bring the landscape to life. The trail’s gradual elevation changes make it accessible for most hikers, horseback riders, and other non‑motorized users seeking a peaceful, uncrowded prairie experience.

Whether enjoyed as a day hike, a photography outing, or a chance to immerse yourself in native grassland ecology, the Blacktail Trail highlights the wide‑open beauty, solitude, and ecological diversity that make the region a true prairie treasure.