Centennial Trail (Custer State Park segment)

Why hike it

If you want the Black Hills greatest hits without the tourist crush, this 22-mile point-to-point slice of the Centennial Trail through Custer State Park delivers. It strings together ponderosa pine forest, open prairie meadows, granite outcrops, and riparian pockets—plus frequent wildlife sightings. Highlights include the Badger Hole Historic Site near Legion Lake, broad views across fire-scarred hillsides from the 1988 Galena Fire, and the rugged French Creek area.

Route and terrain

This is a park-spanning segment with multiple access points—Iron Creek, Badger Hole (near Legion Lake), French Creek, the Wildlife Loop crossing, and Highland Creek—so you can day-hike sections or tackle a longer thru of the park portion. Expect mostly dirt tread with some rocky or grassy stretches, gentle rolling miles punctuated by moderate climbs, and several stream crossings that can be a fun challenge in wetter seasons. The French Creek section is the stoutest part of the route.

Navigation and logistics

The trail is generally well signed with brown fiberglass posts and gray/white diamonds, but a few spots—especially where animal paths braid the hillsides—can momentarily confuse. Download an offline map or carry a GPS track; cell service is spotty. Look for the signed junction by Badger Hole (the main Trail No. 89 continues; the trailhead is a short spur). There’s also a signed crossing of the Wildlife Loop Road with roadside parking. Custer State Park charges an entrance fee for travel through the park.

Wildlife and scenery

You’re in prime wildlife country: bison, pronghorn, deer, and elk are commonly seen; birders keep an eye out for bald eagles along open ridgelines and riparian corridors. Give bison and all large animals plenty of space. The mix of pine forest, meadows, and granite knobs keeps the scenery shifting mile to mile, with post-fire vistas offering bigger views than you might expect.

Camping and water

Inside the park, camping is limited to designated campgrounds or within the French Creek Natural Area (there’s a small nightly fee there). Legion Lake and French Creek areas are popular bases—call ahead if you’re aiming for campgrounds. Don’t count on creeks running late in summer; carry ample water or bring a filter when flows allow.

Best time to hike

Late spring through early fall (May–October) is prime. Wildflowers pop in late spring and early summer; fall brings golden aspen and cooler hiking temps. Summer afternoons often produce thunderstorms—start early and be off exposed high points before lightning rolls in. Winter travel is possible with proper gear for snow, ice, and cold, and stream crossings may freeze.

Shared use

You may encounter horseback riders along this corridor. Yield appropriately and expect occasional multi-use traffic near popular trailheads.