Centennial Trail #89 (Custer State Park section)

This is the Custer State Park slice of South Dakota’s 111-mile Centennial Trail—about 22 miles of rolling forest, meadows, and classic Black Hills granite. Expect a mostly moderate hike with gradual climbs, creek draws, and long, quiet stretches where you’re more likely to see wildlife than people. Wayfinding is generally straightforward thanks to “Centennial Trail No. 89” wands and blue diamonds, but a few junctions can be confusing—carry a map or GPX and keep your eyes up for the markers.

Highlights include the Badger Hole Historic Site by Legion Lake (a great, easy start point) and the trail’s crossing of Wildlife Loop Road, where roadside pullouts make mid-route access simple. A short, signed Legion Lake Bypass creates a mellow loop near Badger Hole if you don’t want to commit to an out-and-back. Southbound from Badger Hole, the trail trends toward French Creek, then on toward the Highland Creek area near the Wind Cave boundary, with one user reporting roughly 14.5 miles one way between Badger Hole and Highland Creek.

Scenery-wise, this section is peak Black Hills: ponderosa pine forest, aspen pockets, open valleys, and sculpted granite outcrops. Keep an eye out for American bison (give them room), pronghorn, elk, deer, and wild turkeys—this is one of the park’s better corridors for wildlife encounters. Underfoot it’s mostly dirt singletrack, but expect some uneven, horse-churned tread and occasional washouts.

Geology bonus: you’re walking on ancient Black Hills granite—on the order of billions of years old—weathered into spires and boulder fields. In late spring, wildflowers pop in the meadows; in fall, the aspen and grasses go gold and the light is fantastic.

Best time to hike: May–June for flowers and flowing creeks, or September–October for crisp air and color. Summer is fine but can be hot with fast-building thunderstorms. Winter travel is possible on packed snow/ice, as trip reports note, but plan accordingly.

Tips: Start at Badger Hole if you want an easy on-ramp and loop option. If you’re stitching a longer day, use the Wildlife Loop crossing for a car shuttle. Treat all creek water. Watch for the #89 wands at junctions—some hikers briefly go off-trail in the early miles within the park. Expect horse traffic and tread wear in places, so choose footwear with good support. If you’re considering an overnight, confirm current camping rules with the park before you go.