Trail Overview

The trail up to Custer Peak Fire Lookout offers riders views of the Black Hills National Forest that are second to none. The lookout was first built in 1911 and replaced in 1935 with the Cupola Building. Finally, in 1941, the Civilian Conservation Corps rebuilt the lookout with local materials to what stands today.

Photos of Custer Peak Fire Lookout

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Difficulty

The trail has a handful of challenging-looking obstacles, but are easily traversed with caution.

Technical Rating

Greg

Jun 14, 2026

Open

I came here before but I chickened out on the steep part about 3/4 up. Untill today! I took my brave little toaster all the way to the top! Considering that I'm very afraid of heights, also I'm not a fan of shelf roads, I did it!

Logan Bottlemy

Aug 13, 2025

Open

Jeff and Laura Bomer

Jun 28, 2025

Open

There is a restroom approximately halfway up. We stopped at Mystic Hills Hideaway for dinner and had the prime Rib. This restaurant is on the way in and is also a campgrounds.

Richard Skartvedt

Jun 11, 2025

Open

zac T

Oct 09, 2024

Open

I was a little nervous driving up to the trail because it was so easy but then it got fun when you actually turn onto it. pretty casual if you have an SUV with 4x4. you'll do it no problem. I completed it with a Ford bronco badlands. you could negotiate the trail easy or harder at your choice. but It was really scenic and very nice up on the peak. plenty of space. you won't risk any pinstripes or anything. there's some rock crawly parts but it's really not difficult.

Matt Ruckman

Jun 17, 2024

Open

Charlie Jacobson

May 10, 2024

Open

Lots of wildlife and plenty of views!

Nick I

Mar 08, 2024

Open

Greg Lambert

Sep 23, 2023

Open

Randi U.

Sep 05, 2023

Open

Mandy Lynch

Jun 01, 2023

Open

Bryan Kemp

May 20, 2023

Open