Ready to explore this trail?
View Trail Map in AppA free, self-issued wilderness permit is required at the trailhead. Parking at Willow Creek is free, and no state park pass is needed.
Path Type
There and Back
This route starts and ends at the Willow Creek Trailhead after reaching the summit of Black Elk Peak.
From the trailhead, head east on the Willow Peak Loop Trail. At 1.0 mile, turn left onto the #9 North Trail. At 2.0 miles, keep to the right, bypassing the Willow Creek Rushmore #5 Trail connector on the left.
Continue south, climbing gradually through ponderosa pines and meadows before entering the Black Elk Wilderness at 2.2 miles. Climb 2,710 vertical feet over the course of the ascent. As the trail steepens, navigate several granite-lined switchbacks. At 5.2 miles, turn right at the junction with Trail #4 near the base of the summit. Climb the final stone steps to reach the historic stone fire tower at 5.4 miles.
Retrace your steps to return to the Willow Creek Trailhead.
No Condition Reports
Black Elk Peak Loop
Black Elk Peak Loop
Horsethief Lake Loop
Horsethief Lake Loop
Black Elk Peak
Black Elk Peak
Black Elk Peak Loop
Black Elk Peak Loop
Presidential Trail
Presidential Trail
Contributors
