Trail No. 2 (Lost Cabin)

If you want a classic Black Hills sufferfest with real payoff, Lost Cabin Trail (Trail No. 2) is your move. It’s about 5 miles one way, connecting Willow Creek (off Highway 244 near Mount Rushmore/Palmer Gulch) to Trail #9 South toward Black Elk Peak. Most hikers tackle it as a stout out-and-back or link it with Trail #9 for a demanding ~15-mile backpacking loop.

Expect a steep opening climb to the Black Elk Wilderness boundary, then a long, rolling descent through dense pine forest. The scenery is pure Black Hills: rugged granite outcrops, shady conifers, open meadows, and periodic vistas of Black Elk Peak—the highest point in South Dakota. Keep your eyes peeled for rocky side features and the occasional off-trail cascade; the main tread itself is rocky and uneven, with some exposed sections that make weather a real factor.

This is designated a National Recreation Trail, and it feels like it—scenic, remote, and a little wild. Wildlife shows up regularly (deer and birds are common; mountain goats are possible). The tradeoff for the views and solitude is effort: footing can be rough, the grade is sustained, and it’s easy to burn time and energy if you’re not dialed on navigation at junctions.

Water is generally more available near the ends of the route and can be scarce in the middle, especially in fall. If you’re backpacking the longer loop with Trail #9, plan to dry-camp or pick your sites near reliable water on the outer segments. Day hikers should carry extra water—don’t count on finding it when you most want it.

Tips and tricks: check the forecast, but don’t trust it too much—conditions shift fast near Black Elk Peak. Summer days can swing from over 90°F to the low 50s with wind and storms. Pack layers and rain gear, and pay attention at bridges and junctions where the route can be confusing without a map.

Best time to hike: late spring through early fall offers the best access and longest days. Summer is prime if you start early to beat heat and afternoon storms. If you’re after a similar vibe with less commitment, consider piecing together a shorter out-and-back from Willow Creek; if you want to go bigger, the overnight loop with Trail #9 is tough but rewarding.

Name note: don’t confuse this with the short Center Lake “Lost” loops elsewhere in the park—Lost Cabin #2 is the rugged, wilderness-style route that links Willow Creek to Trail #9 toward Black Elk Peak.