Black Elk Wilderness Area

The Black Elk Wilderness Area, located in the Black Hills National Foret, was first established as part of the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve in 1920, then a Wilderness area in 1980, by the Colorado Wilderness Act, the Black Elk Wilderness was the second wilderness area designated in South Dakota. Its acreage was further expanded in the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2002. At 13,426 acres, it is a fairly small wilderness area, accessible from the Black Hills National Forest, Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Custer State Park. The wilderness lies solely on National Forest Lands and is administered by the Hell Canyon Ranger District.

The Black Elk Wilderness is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System with its rugged terrain, magnificent scenery and well-maintained trail system, the Black Elk sees heavy visitation, especially on Harney Peak Trail #9 from Sylvan Lake. Climbing Harney Peak is a very popular activity, making opportunities for solitude very elusive. Most visitors spend the day sharing this unique landscape with mountain goats, turkey, deer, mountain lions and an abundant number of bird species.

Fishing, horseback trips, lodging and tours and treks are available in the Black Elk Wilderness Area with an America Outdoors member.  Contact a member today for the vacation of a lifetime!