Near Sylvan Lake Shore Trail
Some nice climbing on the rocks around Sylvan Lake.
Near Sylvan Lake Shore Trail
Panorama of Sylvan lake. One of the most beautiful lakes I have ever seen. If you are near Mount Rushmore take the time to drive up here and check it out. There is a nice trail that goes around the lake.
Near Sylvan Lake Shore Trail
Sylvan Lake is utter glass in mid-March.
Near Sylvan Lake Shore Trail
Sylvan Lake is beautiful!
Near Sylvan Lake Shore Trail
Sylvan Lake is made beautiful on a sunny summer day.

Looking for more photos?

View All Photos
Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Sylvan Lake Shore Trail

4.6 (21 Ratings)
A simple trail with spectacular views around Sylvan Lake.
1
mi
Distance
96
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFamily FriendlyLakeLakefrontSwimmingViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.02mi
Distance
96ft
Elevation Gain
96ft
Elevation Loss
55%
Max Grade
6,194ft
High Point
6,113ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
This trail is a beautiful hike around the shore of Sylvan Lake. Sylvan Lake is considered the "crown jewel" of Custer State Park. Although only a mile long, this trail is a must do hike. All around the lake there are breathtaking views. For visitors interested in climbing, Sylvan Lake has some great rock formations for bouldering. Once you are finished with your hike, you can cool down with a swim in the beautiful water or rent a small boat and paddle around the lake. When you get hungry, don't forget to eat your meal in the picnic area.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

Black Elk Peak Loop

Hike Route

Black Elk Peak Loop

Fall Colors
strenuous
6.48 mi
+1,204 ft
Sylvan Lake Shore Trail

Hike Route

Sylvan Lake Shore Trail

Dogs Allowed
easy
1.06 mi
+116 ft
Black Elk Peak

Hike Route

Black Elk Peak

Views
moderate
3.28 mi
+1,300 ft
Black Elk Peak via Willow Creek

Hike Route

Black Elk Peak via Willow Creek

Less Crowded
strenuous
5.41 mi
+2,443 ft
Black Elk Peak Loop

Hike Route

Black Elk Peak Loop

Lake
strenuous
14.31 mi
+3,584 ft
Horsethief Lake Loop

Hike Route

Horsethief Lake Loop

Birding
strenuous
10.42 mi
+1,857 ft
Contributors
Nate Jones