Hell Canyon Trailhead
The 5.3-mile Hell Canyon Trail offers hikers a collection of different scenic features. Limestone bluffs combine with open meadows on the canyon floor to create two different habitats. A ponderosa pine forest mixes with both habitats, adding to the complexity of the landscape. Multiple numbers of wildflower species bloom throughout the area from April through September. Birders often comment on the numbers of songbirds that gather inside the canyon and along the rocky slopes. And a wide range of wildlife call the canyon home, with bighorn sheep often spotted on the canyon walls. In short, if you are looking for an easy to moderate trail, immersed into the natural scenery, this trail provides some great experiences.
The trail is maintained for hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers; no motorized use is allowed. For planning purposes, the first ascent is a 1/2-mile climb up a steep slope. After cresting the limestone plateau, the trail meanders along the rim for about three miles. During the summer season, this portion of the trail can be hot, due to the lack of shade. The last 2 miles of trail heads to the canyon floor and follows a pathway and two-track road along the bottom of the Hell Canyon drainage. This section of trail offers plenty of shade, and at times, hikers will need to walk through multiple stream crossings.
One of the Best "Lesser-Known" Trails in the Southern Black Hills
The Hell Canyon Trail offers a secluded experience for most hikers. The area does not witness intense use like other trails in the southern Black Hills. The diversity of the landscape makes for a scenic adventure, and nearby Jewel Cave National Monument creates opportunities for all-day recreational experiences just west of Custer, South Dakota.
Active Alerts
General Information
From August 24 through September 25, 2000, the Jasper Fire burned through much of this area and scarred the landscape. The wildland fire impacted 83,508 acres and is the largest recorded wildland fire in South Dakota history. Many sections of the Hell Canyon Trail continue to display burnt trees, snags (dead trees), and other fire features. Hikers are cautioned to wear sunscreen, due to the direct sunlight on the limestone bluffs, as well as to be cautious around snags during high winds / inclement weather.
Open Year-Round ... Please be advised that trailheads are not maintained during the shoulder seasons. Snow accumulation may close trailheads or create challenges for parking.
Hiking trails are open year round, unless a closure order is in place for a specific reason.
Overnight camping is not allowed in trailheads on the Black Hills National Forest. However, dispersed camping may be allowed in nearby areas and/or close proximity to the trail, which may allow for empty vehicles at trailhead parking lots.
Passes and/or permits are not needed at this site.
There are no fees associated with trailheads.
Contact Name: Hell Canyon Ranger District
Contact Phone: (605) 673-9200
Address: 1019 N. 5th Street Custer, SD 57730
Phone: (605) 673-9200
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 43.7384197
Longitude: -103.8450235
Directions
The Hell Canyon Trailhead is located about 15 miles west of Custer, South Dakota and 26 miles east of Newcastle, Wyoming along Highway 16. The trailhead is located on the north side of the highway.
Travel Considerations
Highway 16 travels through nearby Jewel Cave National Monument, and this section of roadway displays a 35 mph speed limit. Travelers are reminded to slow down and watch for wildlife along the highway, as well as increased visitor use during the summer season.
Parking
The Hell Canyon Trailhead offers a large, oval-shaped parking lot that accommodates several vehicles. It also provides adequate turn-around space for horse trailers and larger vehicles.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.
NOTE: Recreationalists using stock within the Black Hills National Forest are required to use weed-free forage at Forest-related campgrounds, trails, trailheads, etc. See below for additional information on external producers and suppliers.
Wyoming Weed Pest Council - Weed Free Forage Producers & Information
Other Amenities
An orientation board is located at the trailhead and provides information and maps related to the trail.
