Near Horsethief Lake Loop
Looking north into the Black Elk Wilderness.
Near Horsethief Lake Loop
South on Horse Thief Lake Trail.
Near Horsethief Lake Loop
Looking south into the Black Elk Wilderness - panorama.
Near Horsethief Lake Loop
Trail marker.
Near Horsethief Lake Loop
Mount Rushmore from The Centennial Trail.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Horsethief Lake Loop

4.3 (3 Ratings)
11-mile loop of varied terrain, and you get to see parts of the Black Hills that most tourists don't.
10.4
mi
Distance
1,857
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
BirdingCaveCommonly BackpackedFall ColorsLess CrowdedViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
10.42mi
Distance
1,857ft
Elevation Gain
1,857ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
5,669ft
High Point
4,858ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
This is a singletrack trail and is generally in good condition, although sections of Centennial On Hell #89-HC are heavily damaged by horse traffic and wet conditions.This trail offers amazing views of the Black Hills most people don't see, because they won't get away from the tourist traps.This is a long hike, so bring water (and lunch) and spend the day. Or, bring a tent and spend the night.You'll travel on the following trails:Horsethief Lake #14 Grizzly #7Centennial On Hell #89-HCTrail junctions are clearly marked, but the trail is not, so having a map and being able to read it helps greatly.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
Greg Sage