Now is the perfect time to start planning that summer vacation and you’re definitely going to want to include this hike. Starting at Sylvan Lake, it goes all the way up Harney Peak.
Not only is Sylvan Lake one of South Dakota’s most beloved landmarks, but Harney Peak is the highest point in all of South Dakota. It is also the highest point east of the Rocky Mountains. The views from the summit are breathtaking. While the hike will only take you 4-5 hours, you can make a day trip or week vacation out of visiting this beautiful area.
There is no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors near Harney Peak. For a map of trails, click here.
Here are just a few of the sites you can see while embarking on this unique hike:
Sylvan Lake:
Dakota Winds Photography / Facebook This lake is loved by South Dakotans and visitors alike and you can see why. With its breathtaking views, there couldn’t be a more perfect place to start your hike.
David Wynia / Flickr Known for its scenery, rock climbing area and cliffs that make the perfect diving board on warm days, the lake is all you’ve dreamed of. This may come in handy on your way back down the mountain!
Starting the trail:
CameliaTWU / Flickr There are some crazy sights on this trail. Including these enormous rocks held just above the path.
Barbara Brown / Facebook As you start up the trail, remember that the weather can change quickly, so come prepared. If storms come through, they typically pass quickly as well.
Friends and family:
Lonnie Nichols / Facebook Bring your friends and family! The hike can be difficult but most people find kids ages 5 and up are able to complete the 7 mile round trip hike.
Wildlife on the trail:
Subharnab Majumdar / Flickr There’s a good chance you’ll see wildlife on your way up. You could see anything from big horned sheep to porcupines to deer.
Jaw-dropping views:
Johnida Dockens / Flickr
Dan / Flickr Weather and wildlife aside, this hike is undoubtedly worth the effort. The views you’ll experience on your way up are unlike anywhere else in the world.
Dan Mullen / Facebook
From the top:
Harney Peak, Black Hills / Facebook When you finally reach the top you can enjoy the special treat of taking in the scenic views from this stone lookout tower.
Black Hills Aerial Adventures / Facebook
Harney Peak, Black Hills / Facebook If you’re lucky, there might even be a rainbow waiting to greet you as you summit the mountain.
Have you ever hiked Harney Peak? What was your favorite part?
Dakota Winds Photography / Facebook
This lake is loved by South Dakotans and visitors alike and you can see why. With its breathtaking views, there couldn’t be a more perfect place to start your hike.
David Wynia / Flickr
Known for its scenery, rock climbing area and cliffs that make the perfect diving board on warm days, the lake is all you’ve dreamed of. This may come in handy on your way back down the mountain!
CameliaTWU / Flickr
There are some crazy sights on this trail. Including these enormous rocks held just above the path.
Barbara Brown / Facebook
As you start up the trail, remember that the weather can change quickly, so come prepared. If storms come through, they typically pass quickly as well.
Lonnie Nichols / Facebook
Bring your friends and family! The hike can be difficult but most people find kids ages 5 and up are able to complete the 7 mile round trip hike.
Subharnab Majumdar / Flickr
There’s a good chance you’ll see wildlife on your way up. You could see anything from big horned sheep to porcupines to deer.
Johnida Dockens / Flickr
Dan / Flickr
Weather and wildlife aside, this hike is undoubtedly worth the effort. The views you’ll experience on your way up are unlike anywhere else in the world.
Dan Mullen / Facebook
Harney Peak, Black Hills / Facebook
When you finally reach the top you can enjoy the special treat of taking in the scenic views from this stone lookout tower.
Black Hills Aerial Adventures / Facebook
If you’re lucky, there might even be a rainbow waiting to greet you as you summit the mountain.
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