Centennial Trail #89

Overview

This is the sneaky, scenic way to reach a Mount Rushmore overlook via the Black Hills’ long-distance Centennial Trail. From the Centennial Trail trailhead at the south end of Black Elk Wilderness, it’s about 9.6 miles total, out-and-back, with roughly 1,574 feet of climbing and a typical time of 4–5 hours. Expect a forested, rolling route with granite outcrops and that satisfyingly quiet “backdoor” feel compared to the busy main plaza.

What to expect

Underfoot, the tread ranges from rocky to churned-up in spots thanks to horse traffic, so sturdy footwear (and poles if you like them) pays off. The payoff is a south-side overlook of the memorial property that most visitors never see. There’s also a one‑mile side trail in the Black Elk Wilderness that leads directly to the memorial, and a shorter alternative approach exists from Horse Thief Lake (about 7.6 miles round trip, same total gain) if you want a quicker day.

Best time to hike

The most reliable window is May through September. Start early for cooler temps and lighter use, or go late afternoon if you prefer quieter trail time. After wet spells, expect more mud where horses frequent the route.

Tips and regulations

This is a multi-use corridor: yield to equestrians and keep your head on a swivel at junctions—signage can be patchy in places, so carry a map/track. Mountain biking is not allowed in the Black Elk Wilderness. Leashed dogs are fine on this approach, but they cannot continue beyond posted barriers into the memorial. Bring ample water; services are not guaranteed unless you actually enter the developed memorial area.

Nature notes

You’re hiking classic Black Hills country: ponderosa pine forest, granite spires, and pockets of meadow. Wildlife across the broader Centennial Trail corridor can include American bison, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, elk, bald eagles—and rattlesnakes. Give all animals space, and watch your step in warm months.