Custer Peak Fire Lookout

Total Miles4.4
Technical Rating
4Moderate
Best TimeSummer, Fall
Trail TypeFull-Width Road
Accessible By
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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

Difficulty

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

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

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Devon Covert
Jun 28, 2026
Open
Normal
Greg
Jun 14, 2026
2018 jeep renegade
Open
NormalDustyRough/Deteriorated
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
2021 Jeep Gladiator
Open
DustyWashboard
Jeff and Laura Bomer
Jun 28, 2025
Open
Dusty
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
NormalRough/Deteriorated
zac T
Oct 09, 2024
Open
DustyNormal
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
2024 Ford Bronco
Open
NormalRough/Deteriorated
Charlie Jacobson
May 10, 2024
Open
NormalMuddy/Wet
Lots of wildlife and plenty of views!
Nick I
Mar 08, 2024
Temporarily Closed
Greg Lambert
Sep 23, 2023
Open
Normal
Randi U.
Sep 05, 2023
Temporarily Closed
Closed GatePosted Sign
Mandy Lynch
Jun 01, 2023
Open
Normal
Bryan Kemp
May 20, 2023
Open
Normal

Custer Peak Fire Lookout Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

Custer Peak Fire Lookout Map

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