Great Plains Trail (NE/SD Section)
Bear Butte State Park, South Dakota to Scottsbluff National Monument, Nebraska
Below you can find detailed information for a southbound hike of the Great Plains Pilot Trail. The northbound information, though included below, has not yet been updated to reflect the southbound information.
Southbound Hike route information
2.0 by Clay Bonnyman Evans, October 2019
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General/Safety Notes: This book is intended for use only as route information. It is not a full guide book. This book may be subject to errors and omissions.
Mileages are derived from various sources that do not always agree — including the National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps for Black Hills North and Black Hills South; U.S. Forest Service maps and pamphlets; the book “Hiking Centennial Trail”; USA Track & Field website (usatf.org); and others — and should be taken as estimates rather than exact data. Most mileages in this databook include the mathematical symbol ~, meaning “approximate,” and should not be taken as exact.
Please be aware that backpacking and long-distance hiking are strenuous activities and present many potential hazards including, but not limited to: fatigue; injury; dangerous weather conditions; intermittent water and food supply; wildlife; insects; and vehicle traffic.
Although the Great Plains Trail Pilot Trail may be hiked self-supported, distances between available camping sites, water sources and other needs are 30 to 40 miles in some sections. It is therefore recommended that hikers have a support network in place, should the need arise. Be sure to tell people when and where you’re going and check in with them on a regular basis.
Water can be scarce in places along the route. Hikers should carefully scout for available water sources and consider caching water on some sections. Hikers should have capacity to carry no less than 5 liters of water; Luke “Strider” Jordan, the only person known to have walked the entire Great Plains Trail, at times carried as much as 7 liters.
Because resupply sites are few and far between on some parts of the route, hikers may want to consider assembling and sending supply boxes ahead of time to post offices, campgrounds or towns along the route.
Getting There
Rapid City Regional Airport has daily flights to Denver, Salt Lake City and Minneapolis.
Rapid City Shuttle offers rides to Sturgis for $75 per person, or $30 per person for more than three people; drivers will sometimes take passengers to Bear Butte State Park for an additional $10. Picks up at airport. 605-399-9999; rapidshuttle.com. Lyft also operates in the area.
There are a number of hotel options and campgrounds in Sturgis, near the northern terminus of the NE/SD section. For the purposes of this data book, the route begins at Bear Butte State Park campground on Bear Butte Lake.
Section 1 — Centennial Trail, Bear Butte State Park to Alkali Creek (~17.5 miles, including round trip to Bear Butte summit; ~12 miles without summit hike)
Note on the Centennial Trail: The first ~125 miles of the Great Plains Trail largely follow the Centennial Trail. The CT is also known as Trail #89 and is marked with stanchions and posts in open areas and small markers on trees in forested areas. There are several types of markers, not all featuring the same information, but almost all feature the silhouette of a bison skull. The CT generally well-marked … until it’s not. Cattle and bison frequently knock down posts or stanchions, and while markers are plentiful in places, in other places where they might come in handy, they aren’t. The tread at times is fainter than local cattle or bison trails, so hikers should be prepared to pay attention and do a certain amount of route finding and be equipped with a good topo map and a compass.
From the entrance to Bear Butte State Park on Highway 79 (130th Avenue), follow park road ~0.25 miles until you see a gate on the left, heading north through a sloping pasture. Follow the trail north, then east ~1 mile to a small shelter, water fountain and sign.
From the sign, follow the steep, winding trail north for ~1 mile as ascends the eastern flank of Bear Butte. Tread is clearly visible, and bushes, trees and shrubs along the route are adorned with small pieces of fabric and bundles containing tobacco, placed by local American Indian people. Summit is northern terminus of Centennial Trail, which is contiguous with the Great Plains Trail for ~125 miles.
If camping at Bear Butte Reservoir: Return from summit via the same route. Cross Highway 79 and head north for ~0.15 miles, then turn west on Bear Butte campground road. There are designated camping areas at ~0.25 miles and ~0.5 miles along the road, and the main campground is at ~0.8 miles. To return to GPT/CT, follow campground road back to Highway 79, go ~0.15 mile south, and turn west/southwest on dirt road across from Bear Butte State Park road. Centennial Trail continues through parking area.
If not camping at Bear Butte Reservoir: Cross Highway 79 from entrance to state park, and follow dirt road across from Bear Butte State Park road, south of reservoir. Centennial Trail continues at west end of parking area.
Follow the CT mostly S and SW for ~5.1 miles through open grassland; route-finding may be necessary. The trail crosses a bridge over Bear Butte Creek, then very briefly follows the concrete Sturgis Bike Path east. Cross Highway 79/34 ~1.2 miles east of Sturgis.
Follow dirt Cemetery Road, immediately west of Old Fort Meade, for ~0.1 mile, turn left on dirt road to Centennial Trail Fort Meade trailhead/parking area. Go through gate at south end of parking area to continue south on CT. (Note: There are no CT markers on the Sturgis Bike Path or Cemetery Road. Do not follow trails that head west up Hogback Ridge from Cemetery Road.)
Follow the CT generally south for ~5.6 miles to Alkali Creek Trailhead, passing the Fort Meade Cemetery to the south after ~1 mile. The trail heads about a half mile east/northeast ~1.6 miles from the TH along a short, low ridge south of Old Fort Meade. Coming off the ridge, signage can be confusing, but in the draw south of the ridge, the trail turns southwest; do not follow trails east.
The trail crosses a dirt road (Old Stone Road) ~3 miles from TH and climbs Dakota Hogback Ridge. Follow trail markers along the ridge, heading slightly southeast, before descending along a series of switchbacks into pasture land. After passing through a gate, the CT turns south. The trail turns west after ~0.75 miles, and the Alkali Creek TH is visible across Old Stone Road to the south.
Fee camping, water, parking and restrooms are available at Alkali Creek TH.
Section 2 — Centennial Trail, Alkali Creek to Dalton Lake (~24 Mi)
Note: Alkali Creek is not well signed for the CT, since the trail does not officially enter the camping area. The CT is directly across Old Stone Road from the camping area.
Exit Alkali Creek at west end of parking area and cross Old Stone Road. There is a gate to the CT ~50 yards directly up the hill. Follow the CT above, then alongside, Alkali Creek for ~0.5 miles, then through the underpass beneath I-90.
The CT is well marked, for the most part, as it ascends ~1,000 feet over the next ~3.5 miles before dropping ~500 feet into Bulldog Gulch (water may or may not be flowing in the gulch, depending on season and weather). The trail climbs ~1,200 feet over the next ~3.5 miles before descending ~500 feet into the Elk Creek drainage, reaching the Elk Creek TH, ~11.6 miles from Alkali Creek TH.
From the Elk Creek TH, follow the CT downhill ~0.6 mile to Elk Creek, which should be flowing except in dry years (and can be difficult to cross in high-water years). Follow the CT along the creek, crossing five times (light rope is strung across the creek for assistance at each crossing) over the next ~1.5 miles. The trail gradually rises above the creek to the south, and ~6 miles from the Elk Creek TH ascends about ~600 feet over the next ~1.5 miles.
After a slight descent from the summit, the CT climbs slightly before descending ~700 feet over ~3 miles to Dalton Lake. Dalton Lake is visible well before you reach it, as the CT descends west, then east, before reaching the lake.
Camping is available for a fee ($18 in 2019) at Dalton Lake. Campground hosts may be willing to bargain and allow backpackers to sleep in a small, stone picnic shelter for a reduced fee ($9 in 2019).
Section 3 – Centennial Trail, Dalton Lake to Pilot Knob or Merritt (~16 miles)
Note: Some parts of this section allow for use of ATVs, UTVs and motorcycles.
From Dalton Lake, the CT climbs south up a series of somewhat steep switchbacks before heading west along a Forest Service road, gaining ~750 feet over ~3.5 miles. It then descends west/southwest through open pine forest on a series of switchbacks to Highway 404/Nemo Road. The trail follows the road briefly south before turning west into the forest.
To reach Nemo, continue south on Nemo Road from where the CT re-enters the forest for ~0.5 miles. Nemo has two small stores for resupply, as well the Branding Iron restaurant and Ponderosa Bar at Nemo Guest Ranch.
Purists can retrace their steps to pick up the the trail north of town. Others can follow Boxelder Forks Road west out of town to the South Boxelder TH. Be advised that the National Geographic Trails Illustrated topographic map for Black Hills North reflects an earlier iteration of the CT, causing potential confusion for southbounders.
Boxelder Forks Road curves north, then south for ~0.75 miles to the South Boxelder TH. The TH is located south of the road, ~ 100 yards after the road turns 90 degrees, from southeast, to northwest. The South Boxelder TH did not have CT signage in August 2019, but the trail heads briefly south from the parking area, crossing a bridge over Boxelder Creek, before turning west/southwest.
The CT climbs ~500 feet over ~4.5 miles before crossing the west fork of Estes Creek, then ascends ~500 feet in ~1 mile before descending ~500 feet over ~1 mile to the Pilot Knob TH.
From the TH, hikers can turn right (west) and follow Merritt Estes Road (dirt) for ~1 mile to the small town of Merritt, where they can eat at the Sugar Shack restaurant or Cousin’s Pub and Pizza. Those not going into Merritt will continue south across Merritt Estes Road on the CT.
Section 4 — Centennial Trail, Pilot Knob TH or Merritt to Sheridan Lake (~22 miles)
From Merritt, hikers can return to Pilot Knob TH on Merritt Estates Road or follow Highway 385 south for ~1.2 miles and rejoin the CT where it crosses the highway. From Pilot Knob TH, continue south for ~1.3 miles on the CT and cross the highway.
Across the highway, the trail continues ~2.5 miles south to Silver City Road, but does not pass directly by Deer Creek TH. The unmarked trail to the trailhead is ~0.1 miles north of Silver City Road. Whispering Pines commercial campground is ~0.25 miles north on Silver City Road from the trailhead.
From Silver City Road, the CT heads southeast, heading briefly uphill for a gain of ~200 feet before descending long, gradual Boarding House Gulch parallel to Highway 385 toward Pactola Reservoir for ~2.8 miles. The reservoir is briefly visible downhill to the right before the trail heads uphill, south, then north, before crossing a paved road leading south to a concrete boat ramp. Trail markers and treadway are not easily visible immediately after crossing the road.
Leaving the boat-ramp road, the trail heads generally southeast, then briefly northeast, gaining ~300 feet before crossing Highway 385. (The U.S. Forest Service information center at Pactola Dam is not on the trail, but is about 1.6 miles south on 385.)
On the south side of 385, the CT first gains ~300 feet over ~1.5 miles before dropping ~500 feet to a dirt road that crosses Rapid Creek, just below the dam. The road to Rapid Creek TH is on the left ~50 yards past the creek. The CT runs southeast along Rapid Creek for ~ 0.25 miles to a small footbridge. The trail is not marked for the next ~0.25 miles as it crosses at-times marshy ground through high, dense foliage before crossing another small bridge.
The CT passes by the Tamarack TH (unmarked) and cabins ~0.7 miles from Rapid Creek TH, then climbs ~600 feet through Gold Standard Gulch for the next ~1.2 miles. It descends to Prairie Creek (no bridge) and reaches Brush Creek Road. Follow signs for CT along the road for ~0.5 miles to small parking area and sign at trailhead parking pullout.
The CT climbs south, gaining ~200 feet before topping out on a ridgeline ~1.5 miles from the trailhead, with panoramic views across long, rolling meadows toward hills to the west. The trail descends very briefly to the southwest into open, grassy fields before heading ~ 0.25 miles west/northwest. It then turns south, climbing slightly as it passes immediately southeast of the Twin Sisters. Note: The CT is marked with stanchions but they are not always easy to spot in the grassy expanse.
The CT alternates between single-track and an old jeep road as it approaches Sheridan Lake. At ~4.6 miles from Brush Creek TH it very briefly follows a powerline before turning south/southeast and descending ~300 feet to a yellow metal gate at Sheridan Lake Road.
Hikers who want to camp at either North Cove or Northside campgrounds: Follow Sheridan Lake Road ~0.85 miles west, then walk ~0.6 miles east to reach marina, picnic area and campgrounds. (The marina and campground are ~0.3 due south of where the CT crosses Sheridan Lake Road, so one could potentially bushwhack and save more than a mile.)
Those not going to the marina area: Follow the CT south as it descends slightly and crosses an area of open forest before reaching a barbed wire fence and gate. Do not follow the trail along the fence, but go through the gate and head uphill. The trail then heads ~0.5 miles southeast to Dakota Point Road and TH.
The CT follows a dirt road leading slightly uphill before dropping ~300 feet in ~0.75 miles to a footbridge over Spring Creek. It descends ~100 yards to a short flight of stone steps leading to the gravel trail across the dam.
From the far side of the dam, follow the trail south/southwest for ~1 mile to the Flume/Calumet TH. The CT follows the lakeshore for ~0.5 miles (passing some good areas for low cliff jumping), then heads back into the trees for ~0.5 miles before reaching the trailhead.
Hikers can walk through the parking area and follow paved Pot Rustle Loop (unmarked) ~0.25 miles north, turning left at the small marina area, to the Sheridan Lake fee camping area.
Section 5 — Centennial Trail, Sheridan Lake to Horsethief Lake Campground (~13 Mi)
If departing from North Cove/Northside campground area: See instructions above for returning to Centennial Trail where it crosses Sheridan Lake Road.
If departing from Sheridan Lake Campground on Pot Rustle Loop: Return ~0.25 miles to parking area at Calumet/Flume TH. From south end of parking area, go ~100 yards west from TH sign on paved Bluewing Road to CT sign and trail heading uphill to the west.
The trail heads west for ~0.3 miles, then south for ~1 mile. Climbing ~150 feet over ~0.7 miles from TH, the CT crosses dirt Calumet Road. The trail climbs south and west through a series of switchbacks, passing below two minor summits before heading briefly east, then southeast, then west, to skirt the summit of Samelius Peak. At ~ 3.5 miles from the TH, the CT reaches its highest point, 5,833 feet, below the peak.
For the next ~3+ miles, the trail drops gradually from the high point, following single-track then jeep roads while descending ~800 feet to the Samelius Peak TH. Expect to see cattle in the area.
From the trailhead, the CT heads west on the north side of Highway 16 for ~0.2 miles to a foot tunnel beneath the highway. On the other side, the trail continues ~0.3 miles southeast to a dirt road. Follow the dirt road ~500 yards until you see signs for the CT heading off to the left. Note: Signs along the road are nonexistent, and there are several false trails heading off to the left; do not leave the road until you see CT signs.
At ~2.3 miles, the trail passes by several rock outcroppings. At mile ~2.5, the trail crosses Battle Creek (flowing, August 2019; must be treated), followed by the tracks for the Hill City-Keystone tourist train. Cross paved road and head steeply uphill for ~0.4 miles to reach the Big Pine TH.
Hikers staying at Horsethief Lake Campground: Follow Highway 244 ~0.3 miles east.
Alternative: Continue into Black Elk Wilderness, where camping is allowed except within 0.25 miles of Harney Peak Trail; no fires allowed.
Section 6 — Horsethief Lake/Highway 244 to Legion Lake (~18.6 to ~21 miles)
Black Elk Wilderness Options:
Option 1 — Black Elk (formerly Harney) Peak (~14 miles; official route of the GPT): From Highway 244, follow CT south ~0.4 miles to Big Pine TH, then follow west for ~0.6 miles. Continue west on Willow Creek/Rushmore Trail #5 for ~1.9 miles, then turn south on Harney Peak Trail (# 9). Follow Trail #9 ~3.3 miles to Harney Peak Trail, which climbs west ~1,400 feet to the 7,242-foot summit, South Dakota’s high point.
Return to Trail #9 via peak trail and follow south ~0.6 miles to Norbeck Trail #3. Follow #3 south ~2.7 miles, crossing Grizzly Bear Creek Trail #7 and Little Devils Tower Trail before reaching Upper Norbeck TH, then west ~2.1 miles to Norbeck TH. Follow paved road east ~0.3 miles to Iron Creek Horse Camp TH on Centennial Trail #89.
Option 2 — Mount Rushmore (~11.4 miles, including side trail to memorial): From Big Pine TH, continue on CT west ~0.6 miles, then south ~3.5 miles on a series of ups and downs totaling ~750 feet of climbing, then descend ~ 1.75 miles and ~600 feet to side trail to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Follow Rushmore trail east about ~0.6 miles (~300 feet of climbing) to the memorial. Return to CT and follow south, gaining ~400 feet over ~2 miles, then descending slightly to Iron Creek Horse Camp TH, where there is potable water.
Pay $4 fee when entering Custer State Park just south of Iron Creek trailhead or at Legion Lake.
From Iron Creek Horse Camp TH, follow CT south ~1 mile to cross Highway 87. The trail continues south, rolling up and down through open forest, gaining ~500 feet over ~4 miles. It descends gently on a two-lane logging road through somewhat denser forest for ~3 miles to Highway 16.
Snacks, water, restrooms and camping are available at Legion Lake Lodge, ~0.5 miles east on Highway 16. Camping fee is $19. Call South Dakota Park Campgrounds to reserve, 800-710-2267.
Section 7 — Centennial Trail — Legion Lake to Elk Creek Campground/Wind Cave National Park (~22.5 miles)
Note: Bison populate both Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park. These animals are large, unpredictable and typically more aggressive than domestic cattle. Give them a berth of no less than 25 yards if you encounter one on or near the trail.
If camping at Legion Lake: Return ~0.5 mile CT on Highway 16. Follow south ~0.5 miles to crossing of Grace Coolidge Creek (heavily overgrown, more like a marsh). The trail follows the creek on intermittently marked single-track, then climbs gradually on a jeep track through open forest, before becoming single-track again.
The trail rolls up and down through both forested and open areas, reaching Badger Hole Spur trail in ~1.5 miles. It descends gently for ~2.5 miles before climbing ~300 feet, then descends again to French Creek. The creek was flowing strongly in August 2019, requiring two thigh-deep fordings.
Water at French Creek Horse Camp must be treated or filtered. Fee camping is available.
Much of ~9 miles between French Creek Horse Camp and Highland Creek TH goes through burn areas with little shade. Trail markers are sometimes erratic, the trail is overgrown or faint in places and may be confused with bison trails.
Signage for CT south from French Creek Horse Camp is somewhat confusing. Do not follow main road. Find CT on south side of creek and continue uphill. The CT gains ~500 feet over the next ~1.5 miles and crosses Wildlife Loop Road at about ~2.2 miles.
It drops gradually ~300 feet for ~1.7 miles and turns east for ~ 0.7 miles, then south, following a long, straight section through grassland past occasional stands of trees. The CT crosses 4-Mile Road at ~5 miles and passes through a cattle/bison gate ~7 miles from the trailhead.
The trail climbs and follows a ridge for the next ~1.2 miles before dropping ~300 feet to a broad, treeless area and crossing Highland Creek on a wooden plank. The trail passes through a gate in a high bison fence and crosses dirt Highland Ridge Road to the parking area for the Highland Creek TH. The CT enters Wind Cave National Park here, but the signage is variable.
The trail heads southwest over open fields. Follow newer, more substantial markers for Wind Cave National Park trail #6, which are sometimes, but not always, also marked CT/#89.
From the TH, the CT climbs ~300 feet through grassy fields studded with occasional burnt stumps before leveling out. Despite the presence of sturdy markers, pay careful attention to trail numbers on posts where trail #6/CT crosses the Sanctuary Trail #5, which runs northwest/southeast.
At ~2.2 miles from TH, the CT drops steeply for ~1 mile before crossing Beaver Creek on a small plank bridge. After another crossing a short while later, it follows the creek beneath rocky canyon walls for ~1.5 miles to reach the Norbeck Lake TH, southern terminus of the Centennial Trail.
From Norbeck Lake TH, turn left (south) on Highway 87 and go ~0.6 miles to Highway 385. Head south on 385 ~0.6 miles and turn right on paved road at sign for Wind Cave NP Headquarters and Elk Creek Campground. After ~0.7 miles, turn right and follow paved road ~0.5 miles to Elk Creek Campground. Fee camping is available ($18 high season; $9 off season); 605-745-4600 for reservations.
Section 8 — Elk Creek Campground/Wind Cave National Park to Hot Springs OR Cottonwood Springs Campground (~11 to ~17 miles)
From campground, go ~0.5 miles east and turn right on paved road. Continue south ~0.5 miles to large parking area and Wind Cave National Park Headquarters, where you can register and pay the park fee.
Continue south ~0.2 miles through parking area, then turn left at paved park service road. Follow road ~0.75 miles past maintenance area to Highway 385 and Wind Cave Canyon Trail parking area. Follow trail ~0.5 miles east to East Bison Flats TH. Follow East Bison Flats trail ~2.8 miles south over gently rolling terrain. The trail then turns west and climbs ~200 feet in ~0.9 miles to Gobbler Pass TH on Highway 385.
Follow Highway 385 ~6 miles south to town of Hot Springs. Amenities: motels, camping, coin-operated laundromat, restaurants, grocery stores and other resupply options, extracurricular sights and activities such as hot springs (the city-owned, indoor, pebble-bottomed Evans Plunge pool is at a constant 87 degrees year, fed directly by local springs, and also offers saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs and more) and the Mammoth Site, an active archaeological dig.
If not staying in Hot Springs: From Highway 385, go west on Battle Mountain Avenue for ~0.4 miles, then follow Main Street south for ~0.6 miles to Minnekahta Avenue. Climb steep staircase to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Sidewalk at top of staircase merges onto 17th Avenue, which continues south ~0.4 miles before jogging ~0.15 miles east, then ~0.15 south around Hot Springs High School to University Avenue/Highway 18.
Continue west on Highway 18 for ~4.2 miles, gaining several hundred feet over 2+ miles along the highway. Turn north (right) on dirt Memorial Road/County Road 17. Follow for ~1 mile north, then bear west at intersection with County Road 17C and follow for ~0.2 miles to Cottonwood Road. Follow Cottonwood Road north/northwest for ~1.6 miles to entrance for Corps of Engineers’ Cottonwood Campground fee camping area, which has toilets and potable water, in season.
Note: You must call or register online to reserve a campsite in advance; cell phone coverage at campground is spotty and dependent upon carrier. Go to recreation.gov or call 605-745-5476.
Section 9 — Cottonwood Springs CG to Edgemont (24 miles)
From campground, return ~0.6 miles on Cottonwood Road to County Road 17/Erskine Road. Follow dirt CR17 ~2 miles as it climbs gradually north and west through open forests and pastures (all private property). Continue west on CR17 for ~1.7 miles on dirt straightaway through open country (fenced, private property), passing a small cemetery on the left after ~1.1 miles.
Turn south (left) at Valley Road/CR17A and follow for ~0.7 miles to Highway 18. Then follow Highway 18 ~2.5 miles to the Minnekahta TH for the George S. Mickelson Trail, a well-graded rails-to-trails route leading south to Edgemont, S.D. In season (April 30-Oct. 1), there is water available at a cistern at the trailhead. Pay $4 day-use fee at trailhead (or at terminus in Edgemont).
Follow Mickelson trail south for ~7.2 miles through a long, narrow valley, crossing several private drives/roads. Then the trail turns west for ~1.2 miles, crossing under Highway 18S. Continuing west/northwest, the trail passes the Sheep Canyon shelter (no camping), where water is available in a cistern in season (April 30-Oct. 1).
The trail follows steep-sided Sheep Canyon, passing Deadhorse Canyon in ~0.5 miles, then continues south/southwest for ~1.3 miles before turning sharply to the north. Follow the trail northwest, then north, then briefly north/northeast for ~1.6 miles, where it loops around to the west, then south for ~0.4 miles.
Paralleling Highway 18, the trail heads southwest for ~3 miles before turning south across railroad and continuing on paved Old Highway 18 toward Edgemont. Follow occasional Mickelson trail signs toward town, crossing railroad tracks after ~0.6 miles. Continue west, then south, for ~0.2 miles to 2nd Avenue.
If in need of resupply: Continue west on A Street/Highway 471 ~0.3 miles, passing the Cowboy Inn motel on right. Turn right on 6th Avenue. Conoco gas station and convenience store and Sinclair convenience store, restaurant and Fresh Start Neighborhood Market are ~0.1 north.
To campground: From A Street, follow 2nd Avenue south ~0.5 miles to Edgemont municipal campground, just past park and terminus of Mickelson trail. Tent sites are available for $10. Call number on office or 605-662-7057 to reserve site and receive payment instructions. Includes use of shower and bathroom.
Section 10 — Edgemont to Oglala National Grassland Road 930 (27 miles)
Note: The walk from Edgemont south to Crawford is extremely dry, dusty and 100 percent devoid of shade. There are small streams along the route, sometimes accessible without going onto private property, but hikers are advised to carry plenty of water, especially in hot weather.
From Edgemont campground, turn left on 2nd Avenue, which becomes Highway 471. Follow highway south toward small town of Provo (no services). The highway crosses Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad tracks at ~0.6 miles and Cottonwood Creek at ~0.75 miles.
The highway climbs south/southeast gradually for ~2.5 miles past washes and hills before topping out. It then rolls up and down, mostly south, for another ~1.5 miles. At ~6.5 miles from Edgemont, the highway passes the road to “Fort Igloo,” a decommissioned military ordnance site visible ~1.5 miles to the west.
At Provo, ~7.5 miles south of the campground, Highway 471 turns east/southeast. Follow it ~0.85 miles to dirt Edgemont Road and turn south. Follow Edgemont south for ~11 miles, passing County Road 7B on the left in ~5.5 miles, CR 5B in ~8 miles, CR 7A in ~9 miles and CR 7C in ~10 miles.
At T junction with Ardmore Road, follow Edgemont Road west and southwest for ~3 miles to junction for Wyoming Road. Continue south and slightly southwest on Edgemont Road for ~1.7 miles to unmarked South Dakota/Nebraska border (ranch to west ~0.1 mile south of border).
Continue on Edgemont Road for ~2.5 miles to Forest Service Road 930, crossing cattle guard into Ogalala National Grasslands ~0.4 miles south of border. There may be water in small frog ponds adjacent to the road, depending on season and weather.
FS 930 is marked on west side of road with a small sign. A flat, grassy dell just northwest of the small hillock north of FS 930 offers a campsite that is not visible from the road.
Section 11 — Forest Service Road 930/Ogalala National Grasslands to Toadstool Geologic Park (24 miles)
From FS 930, continue south on Edgemont Road for ~3.6 miles to Montrose Road, passing Indian Creek Road at ~2 miles and Story Road at ~2.4 miles. Edgemont Road is long, open, straight and dusty, rolling up and down over gentle hills, passing a few ranches and farmsteads, but no water sources.
Follow Montrose Road east through rolling, open pastures for ~3.1 miles to junction with Pants Butte Road, which heads southeast. Continue on Montrose, which heads northeast, then southeast, then east for another ~1.2 miles before coming to Pants Butte Road (again). Turn left to stay on Montrose Road, which heads ~0.1 miles north before heading east for ~1.9 miles over rolling hills, passing a ranch to the north.
The road heads due north for ~0.4 miles before heading generally east ~1.7 miles to Immaculate Conception Church and cemetery and trail to Warbonnet Memorial.
From church, turn right (south) on Hat Creek Road (signs here can be confusing; do not go east on Hat Creek), which continues ~2.5 miles due south before heading east/southeast for ~0.5 miles. Continue on Hat Creek south for ~0.45 miles to Orella Road.
Orella Road heads east/southeast for ~1.1 miles, passing a ranch road on the right at ~0.8 miles. It then heads due east for ~2.1 miles, passing a large stock pond (unfenced, to the north; treat water if taken from here) after ~1.4 miles. It winds down to alkali flats and small canyons featuring pale gray geologic formations, passing another unfenced stock pond to the north (potential water source) then climbing gradually for ~2.1 miles before reaching the sign to Forest Service Road 918 to the right. Keep an eye out for the sign and road.
Follow FS 918 ~1.4 miles to sign for Great Plains Trail, then turn east and follow 4-inch posts (brown with light-brown tops) ~1.7 miles to Toadstool Geologic Site Campground. Self-register to camp ($5). There are toilets but no water at the campground.
Section 12 – Toadstool to Crawford or Ft. Robinson State Park (21-24 miles)
Go through gate on west side of Toadstool campground loop and turn right on Toadstool Loop trail. In ~0.1 miles, pass brown Forest Service sign reading: “GREAT PLAINS TRAIL — 918 ROAD 1.5 — BISON TRAIL 3.1 — TOADSTOOL PARK C.G. 4.8.”
Option 1: If you follow the trail north from the sign, you will backtrack ~1.7 miles to FS 918. Turn left on FS 918 and go south/southeast. Turn right at sign for Hudson Meng/Toadstool C.G. and follow trail ~1.3 miles to the Hudson Meng Bison Bonebed archaeological site.
The site is operated by the Forest Service and open from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend. There is a restroom and potable water. Bottled water and Gatorade are on sale at the main building.
Option 2 (official GPT route): Continue on Toadstool Loop Trail west past GPT sign. Proceed west on loop trail until you see sign for Bison Trail. The Bison Trail winds along the bottom of a wash, marked by 4-inch brown Forest Service posts. In ~1.8 miles, the trail emerges from the wash at the sign for Hudson Meng. Continue south ~1.3 miles toward Hudson Meng.
From Hudson Meng, follow dirt entrance road south for ~0.7 miles, gaining ~100 feet as you skirt to the west of Pine Butte and descending to Meng Drive. Go east/left ~50 yards, cross cattle guard, then turn immediately right to go south on Milo Road. Follow Milo Road for ~4.2 miles as it winds generally south, up and down many small hills through both open and forested areas, to Cottonwood Road. Milo Road crosses three small streams in the first two miles.
Follow Cottonwood Road east for ~0.5 miles and turn south on Rimrock Road. Stay on Rimrock Road for ~7.4 miles as it heads south for ~1.2 miles, then east for ~2 miles, south and east for ~1.5 miles, east for ~1.6 miles, and finally, ~1.2 miles south to Moody Road. Rimrock winds through small forested draws, frequently climbing and descending small hills, but is mostly exposed and without shade. There may be water in some of the draws, depending on season and weather.
Follow dirt Moody Road east for ~3 miles through open, exposed country, including farm fields, to Dodd Road. Follow Dodd Road south 1 mile, then east 1 mile, then south ~1.25 miles. About ~0.2 miles past Holmgren Road, Dodd turns southeast, crossing over the White River in ~0.25 miles. Continue past Crawford Livestock Auction on the left.
If you plan to camp at Crawford City Park ($10 self-service fee required): Turn right on 1st Avenue just past auction yard and follow south for ~0.2 miles. Then turn right on Main Street and enter the park. Turn right at fountain, cross small footbridge. Restrooms are on the left and self-service fee kiosk is just north of restrooms.
If you plan to stay in a hotel or resupply in town: Continue past 1st Avenue, passing grain silos on left, where road becomes 2nd Avenue. Follow 2nd Avenue ~0.25 miles to Main Street and downtown Crawford.
Crawford amenities:
D&G grocery store on the northeast corner of 2nd and Main, a bar and laundromat on the southeast corner, and a bar and restaurant on the southwest corner (for sale as of September 2019).
The town also has a Dollar General, gas station with convenience items and a drive-in restaurant, ~0.5 miles south of, and uphill from, downtown.
Motels:
Hilltop Motel — Continue south ~0.6 miles on 2nd Avenue to Highway 20. Motel is ~0.1 mile east. 308-665-1144.
Crawford Inn & RV — Follow Main Street east ~0.5 miles, cross Highway 20 to motel. 308-207-2185.
If you plan to stay at Fort Robinson State Park: Turn right on 1st Avenue. In ~0.2 miles, at Main Street, you will see signs for rails-to-trails White River Trail. Follow trail south for ~2.8 miles, crossing Highway 20 at ~0.75 miles. At end of trail, turn right and follow road around, go ~0.25 miles west on first cross street to main lodge, restaurant, gift shop and museum. Camping area is ~0.5 miles southeast of lodge; tent fee is $10.
Section 13 – Crawford to Pine Ridge Trail/Nebraska National Forest (11-17 miles)
From Fort Robinson: Return to Crawford via White River Trail.
From city park: Walk east on Main Street, turn right/south on 2nd Avenue and proceed ~0.25 miles to Annin Street. Head east Annin Street, which crosses Highway 20 in ~0.5 miles. Cross highway and continue straight onto West Ash Creek Road. Stay on dirt/gravel West Ash Creek for ~6.4 miles to West Ash Creek. The road rises and falls gently through farmland, with dramatic pinnacles visible on Pine Ridge to the south, passing several farm and county roads.
West Ash Creek Road turns south ~0.4 miles southeast of creek. Follow road mostly south for ~5.1 miles as it gradually climbs up through West Ash canyon, creek occasionally visible to west.
Water note: There is a small, fenced spring on the east side of West Ash Creek Road ~2 miles south from where road turns due south.
Free camping is available at a small picnic area to the right (west), ~0.25 miles north of the West Ash Trailhead of the Pine Ridge Trail. Water is available from West Ash Creek, just a few yards west of the picnic area. There are two stock tanks at the trailhead.
Almost all land adjacent to Pine Ridge Trail is public, available for camping except for one well-marked area of private land.
Foster’s School House Bed & Breakfast is less than 1 mile south of the West Ash TH on West Ash Creek Road. 844-803-1779.
Note: Distances along Pine Ridge Trail are even more approximate than in rest of databook, due to lack of good mapping.
Be advised that due to a fire, there is little to no shade and no water for most of the ~5.7-mile crossing between the West Ash and East Ash trailheads of the Pine Ridge Trail.
The trail is mostly well-marked with 4-inch brown posts — until it isn’t. The tread is overgrown or completely disappears frequently, often at inopportune moments.
From the trailhead, do not follow the casual trail heading straight east up a steep hill. Instead, find the trail where it follows the barbed-wire fence near the road and follow it briefly north, then south, as it climbs from the canyon to a broad, grassy plateau covered with the remainders of burnt trees and a few live ponderosa pines.
The trail heads east/southeast for ~2.5 miles, crossing the grassy top of the plateau. At ~1.5 miles, there is a gate marked private property north of the faint trail, with posts continuing over virtually invisible trail inside the gate. Follow posts to gate and sign about the land’s previous owners.
At ~2.5 miles, the trail passes a small house and windmill ~50 yards to the south. The trail continues east for ~150 yards, then turns south for ~75 yards. From here, follow posts ~0.1 miles southeast, then northeast to the top of a small rise.
Although it is not marked by posts, follow jeep track downhill, descending east along the ridge, then winding north as it descends toward the canyon bottom. Approximately ~0.3 miles from the top, before you reach the bottom of the canyon, look for brown posts heading southeast.
Follow posts along the canyon bottom, then into a small canyon that ascends eastward to the east side of the plateau. Stay in the bottom of the canyon as you ascend; several posts inexplicably lead uphill to the north near the beginning of the small canyon, then peter out in full view of next post … in the bottom of the canyon.
Emerging from the canyon, walk south/southeast. The tread here is non-existent. Skirt the rim of the canyon across rolling, grassy swales with scattered trees. This plateau has numerous flat spots for tenting. Aim for the windmill ~0.5 miles south from where you topped out (no water September 2019).
Pass through a gate immediately southeast of the windmill. Tread is undetectable in thick grass and sedges, so look ahead for the next post.
Follow posts as they turn northeast and descend into East Ash Creek canyon. Tread becomes more distinct as trail descends. At bottom of canyon, continue northeast, paralleling East Ash Creek, a good water source. About ~1 mile after reaching the canyon bottom and ~0.1 miles after crossing creek, emerge onto dirt East Ash Creek Road.
Section 14 – Pine Ridge Trail/Nebraska National Forest to Box Butte State Recreation Area (~17 miles from East Ash Creek Road; ~22.7 miles from West Ash Creek TH)
Continue on Pine Ridge Trail east of East Ash Road for ~2 miles to a windmill. Turn south/southeast at windmill and continue on two-track for ~0.4 miles. Leave two-track road for ~0.2 miles to avoid private property, then head southeast ~0.2 miles, then south ~0.2 miles to the junction for Forest Service Road 708.
Follow FS 708 through green gate and continue on the county road about 1.7 miles to Highland Cemetery, at the intersection of dirt Highland and Table roads. Follow Highland Road south for ~2.25 miles, where it turns southeast. Continue on Highland Road as it winds ~3.75 miles east and southeast to Table Center Road.
Follow dirt Table Center Road over rolling terrain ~6.3 miles south to River Road. Head west ~0.9 miles to entrance to Box Butte State Recreation area. Tent camping fee is $10.
Alternate route (~24.2 miles; suggested by Tom Foster, owner of School House Bed & Breakfast, to avoid traffic and narrow shoulders on Table Center Road):
From Pine Ridge Trail, follow East Ash Creek Road ~2.7 miles south to Table Road. Follow Table Road north, then east, ~0.8 miles to Hough Road. Go ~1.6 miles south, then continue on southeast on Hough Road for ~1.2 miles. Follow Hough Road ~0.5 miles, turn south on Hollibaugh Road.
Follow Hollibaugh Road ~9 miles south and southwest to River Road. Follow River Road ~4.4 miles east to entrance of Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area.
Section 15 — Box Butte State Recreation Area to Alliance (35 miles, including Carhenge)
Go east on River Road ~0.9 miles, turn south on Table Center Road. Continue south on Table Center Road (paved) for ~10 miles to town of Hemingford.
Hemingford has a grocery store and gas stations for resupply. Camping is available at Hemingford Campground, 700 Wyoming Avenue.
Either skirt east of town along railroad tracks to Highway 2, or go east ~0.1 miles on Niobrara Avenue to Highway 2.
Follow Highway 2 ~8.4 miles, then turn east on Jefferson Road. Follow Jefferson east ~6.1 miles, turn south on Highway 87. Carhenge is ~5.5 miles south on Highway 87. Continue south ~7.2 miles on Highway 87 from Carhenge to East 25th Street in Alliance. Go ~0.7 miles west on E. 25th, turn south on Box Butte Avenue. Go ~1.6 miles south to E. 3rd Street in downtown Alliance. There are several motels, as well as camping at J&C Lawn Services and RV Park ~2 miles southwest of town on Highway 385; 308-762-3860.
Section 16 – Alliance to Butte View CG at Lake Minatare State Recreation Area (40 miles)
From Box Butte Road, walk west on 10th Street for ~1.4 miles, where it crosses Highway 385 and become Otoe Road. Follow Otoe Road ~11 miles west, then turn south on CR 72. In ~0.8 miles, CR 72 turns west and becomes Perkins Road.
Follow Perkins Road ~8.5 miles west, then turn south on CR 81. Follow CR 81 ~1.3 miles south and west, where it becomes Rock Road and heads west for 1 mile. Turn south on CR 82 for ~3 miles. Head west on Valley Road for 1 mile, then south for 2 miles on CR 83.
Head west ~3.5 miles on York Road/Road A, then ~5 miles south and southwest on Highland Road to junction with County Road E. Go ~2 miles west on Road E to Stonegate Road and Lake Minatare State Recreation Area/Butte View Campground. There are three other campgrounds further west on Stonegate Road, West Wind, South Gate and Butte View. Park fee is $8 and Camp Fee is $8.50.
Section 17 — Lake Minatare SRA/Butte View Campground to Scottsbluff National Monument summit (21 miles )
Continue on Stonegate Road ~3.5 miles around north and west sides of Lake Minatare to Lake Minatare Road.
Option 1 (~16 miles to central Scottsbluff): Follow paved Lake Minatare Road ~6 miles to Sugar Factory Road/Road 23. Follow Sugar Factory Road ~3 miles south to W. 42nd Street. Follow W. 42nd ~1 mile to 5th Avenue. Follow 5th Avenue ~1 mile south to 27th Street.
Option 2 (~17 miles; avoids traffic on paved Lake Minatare Road): Go ~2 miles west on Lake Minatare to County Road 27. Go ~3 miles south on CR 27 to Road J. Follow Road J around airport (~2 miles west, ~0.5 miles north, ~1 mile west) to CR 24. Follow CR 24 ~0.5 miles south, then Road J west ~2 miles to 5th Avenue (Road J becomes W. 42nd Street west of Sugar Factory Road).
If staying in Scottsbluff: Scottsbluff has numerous inexpensive motels, grocery stores and restaurants and other amenities. J&L Laundromat is just west of the intersection of 27th Street and Avenue I.
Riverside Municipal campground, 1514 West Beltline Highway in Scottsbluff, has tent camping for $10; 308-632-6342 ($10). To reach campground, cross West Beltline Highway on 10th Street bridge to YMCA Park. From park, follow Monument Valley Pathway north of North Platte River ~1 mile west, just past Common Grounds Dog Park. Campground is ~0.1 mile north.
Camping also available at Robidoux RV Campground, 585 Five Rocks Road in Gering (~2 miles south of North Platte River); tent fee is $12; 308-436-2046.
If continuing on to Scottsbluff National Monument: From 27th Street and 5th Avenue, continue west ~0.3 miles on 27th Street to Broadway. Follow Broadway south ~1.4 miles to South Beltline Highway.
Cross highway and river, then pick up Monument Valley Pathway. Follow pathway past Terry Lake and ballfields to Country Club Road. Follow Country Club Road ~1 mile to dead end, then walk south along perimeter of Scottsbluff National Monument to the Saddle Rock Trail. Follow trail west to Visitor’s Center, where you can climb to the 4,969-foot summit via the trail.
Getting Home
Western Nebraska Regional Airport has daily flights to and from Denver International Airport. Denver Coach Shuttle offers rides along the I-25 corridor to Cheyenne, Fort Collins, Loveland, Longmont and DIA; 308-632-8400. Greyhound buses run along I-80 (Cheyenne, Kimball, Sidney, Ogalalla, etc.)
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Northbound Hike route information
v. 1.0 (not yet updated to reflect southbound v. 2.0)
Section 1 – Scottsbluff National Mon. (SBNM) to Butte View CG-Lake Minatare State Rec. Area (LMSRA) (22.5 Mi)
-Begin at SBNM Visitor Center (VC), and climb to the summit of Scottsbluff via the Saddle Rock Trail and return the same way. From the VC, follow the Prairie View Trail along the perimeter of the park to Country Club Rd and head E until you cross the railroad tracks. Just after the tracks, pick up Monument Valley Pathway (MVP) and follow it N and E around the ball field, Terry Lake, and cross the river at 10th street. After crossing the river, you can return to Riverside CG via the MVP if needed.
-From 10th street/Beltline intersection, head N on Broadway to 27th St. Head E on 27th St to 5th Av. Head N on 5th Av to 42nd St. Head E on 42nd St one mi to Sugar Factory Rd/23. Head N on 23 three mi to Lake Minatare Rd/Co Rd F. Head E on Lake Minatare for 6 mi to LMSRA.
-LMSRA has four campgrounds (Scout’s Rest, West Wind, South Gate, and Butte View). Head N or S around the lake on Stonegate Rd. Heading N will be West Wind, Scout’s Rest, then Butte View. Heading S will be South Gate, then Butte View. Park Fee is $8 and Camp Fee is $8.50. Depending on time of year, reservations may need to be made. Butte View CG gets you a little closer to Alliance.
Section 2 – Butte View CG-LMSRA to Alliance (38 Mi)
–From Butte View CG head E on Stonegate Rd for 200ft, then continue E on Co Rd E two mi to N Highland Rd. Head N on N Highland Rd which turns NE after one mi. After four mi, Head E on Rd A/York Rd for 3.5 mi.
-Head N on Rd 83 for two mi. Head E on Valley Rd for one mi. Head N on Rd. 82 for three mi. Head E on Rock Rd for one mi. Head N on Rd 81 (winds N and E) for one mi. Head E on Perkins Rd for 8.5 mi. Head N on Rd 72 for one mi. Head E on Otoe Rd for 11 mi to Alliance.
-There are two or three hotel options about one mi S on W 3rd St. There is also an RV campground 2 mi S on US 385-J &C Lawn Svcs and RV Park-2491 US 385 Ph. 308-762-3860 ($?)
Section 3 – Alliance to Box Butte Reservoir State Rec. Area (35 Mi) (Shorter ways possible by skipping Carhenge)
-From hotels on 3rd St, head E on 3rd St to downtown Alliance. Head N on Box Butte Av to 25th St. Head E on 25th St for one mi to Hwy 87. Head N on Hwy 87 for 7 mi to Jefferson Rd (Carhenge is about one mi along this rd). Head W on Jefferson Rd for 6 mi-past US 385- to Hwy 2. Head NNW on Hwy 2 for 8 mi to the town of Hemingford.
– There is a small CG in Hemingford if needed-on Wyoming Av near where you come into town. Otherwise, go W on Niobrara Av for two blks then turn N on Box Butte Av which becomes Rd 70. Stay on Rd 70 (which becomes Table Center Rd) for 10 mi. Head W on River Rd one mi to Box Butte SRA. There is a CG at the SRA. Daily permits are $8, and tent campsite is $10. Depending on time of year, reservations may need to be made.
Section 4 – Box Butte SRA to Nebraska National Forest (17-23 Mi depending on where you camp)
-Return to Table Center Rd and head N for 6.5 mi to Highland Rd. Head WNW on Highland Rd for 3.5 mi until Highland Rd turns due N. Head N for 2.5 mi to T junction (at Highland Cemetery).
-Head W at cemetery on unmaintained county rd for about 1.5 mi. At a green steel gate is Forest Service Rd 708. Where 708 bends N and then W, the GPT continues N and then NNW to avoid a parcel of private land. Continue NNW for about 0.4 mi to connect with a two-track rd. Continue NNW on two-track for another 0.4 mi to connect with Pine Ridge Trail near the windmill.
-Head W on Pine Ridge Trail for about 2 mi to junction with East Ash Rd. Pine Ridge Trail continues (look for brown 4’ high posts) between East Ash and West Ash rds for about 5.7 mi. Camping is permitted on NF public land, but not the private easement the trail passes through. Look for signs and gates that denote this section. There is also a picnic area 0.25 mi north of the West Ash trailhead that might provide a good campsite.
Section 5 – Nebraska National Forest to Crawford or Ft. Robinson State Park (12-16 Mi)
-Head N on West Ash Creek Rd for about 4 mi where the road turns W. Continue W on West Ash Rd about 6 mi into the town of Crawford. West Ash becomes Annin St in town. Head W on Annin St about one mi to 1st St. Head S three blks to Reed St. Head W at the community Center and ball field to access the White River Trail. Head W on the WRT about three miles to Ft. Robinson State Park. Options: You can stay in Crawford and camp at the city park on the NW corner of town. There are also hotels in town. You can also head to Ft. Robinson and camp there, but the route for the GPT is not complete through Ft. Robinson, and you will need to double back on the WRT back into Crawford to continue north. Ft. Robinson requires a day use pass for $6-$8 and camping fees are $10-$15. Reservations may be needed.
Section 6 – Crawford to Toadstool Geologic Park (21 Mi)
-From city park at NW corner of town and the E trailhead for the White River Trail, head north on 1st St to the edge of town, then head NNW at the Stockyard to Dodd Rd.
-Head N on Dodd Rd for one mi, then W for one mi at the railroad tracks. Turn N for one mi to Moody Rd. Head W on Moody Rd for two mi. Turn N at Rim Rock Rd for one mi, then turn W and follow Rim Rock Rd as it winds N and W for about 5 mi to Cottonwood Rd. Head W on Cottonwood Rd for only about 0.2 mi then turn N on Milo Rd. Head N on Milo Rd for about 6 mi to Hudson-Meng Bison Bonebed research center. The three-mile Bison Trail to Toadstool starts at the visitor center. Head N on Bison Trail following 4’ brown posts to Toadstool Campground. There is a $5 camping fee and a $3 day use fee.
Section 7 – Toadstool Geologic Park to Oglala National Grassland Road 930 (25 Mi)
-From campground head NW along main gravel trail about 0.1 mi to forest service sign marking Great Plains Trail. Follow the 4’ brown posts N and NW 1.5 mi to 918 Rd. When you come to 918 Rd, you will see another Great Plains Trail sign. Follow 918 Rd NNW 1.4 mi to Orella Rd. Head W on Orella Rd about 6 mi to T junction at Hat Creek Rd. Head N on Hat Creek Rd (it jogs briefly W) for 3.5 mi to Montrose church and Warbonnet Memorial. The memorial sits 0.1 mi away on a hilltop and can be accessed through the gate.
-Head W on Montrose Rd for 4 mi (it jogs briefly S) to junction with Pants Butte Rd. Pants Butte Rd continues due S, but stay heading W on Montrose Rd for 4 mi to T junction with Edgemont Rd. Head N on Edgemont Rd for about 3.6 mi and look for the forest service road marker 930 on the west side of the road. Head W on 930 and look for campsite options away from the road. This is a public land section of Oglala National Grassland.
Section 8 – Oglala NG Road 930 to Edgemont, South Dakota (26 Mi)
-Head N on Edgemont Rd (road crosses into South Dakota after about 2.5 mi). About 1.5 mi after you enter SD, road bears east for about 3 mi before turning due N again at a junction with Ardmore Rd. Continue N on Edgemont Rd for 11 mi to T junction with 471 (paved road).
-Head W on 471 into town of Provo, then continue N on 471 eight mi to Edgemont and the Mickelson Trail 0.0 mi marker at city park at S end of 2nd Av. Edgemont Campground is just a block south of the Mickelson 0.0 mile marker-ph. 605-662-7057 ($10). There are also hotels in town.
Section 9 – Edgemont to Cottonwood Springs Campground (23 Mi)
-From Mickelson Trail (MT) 0.0 marker, purchase a daily pass for the MT ($4). Head N on 2nd Av six blks to junction with A St. Head E on A St and follow it across the RR tracks and across the river where it becomes Old Hwy 18. In 0.5 mi veer left and cross another set of tracks. Just after crossing the tracks, pick up the MT which parallels the tracks and the hwy and heads NE. After about 2.5 mi, the MT veers off and hooks E and then SE before heading back N. Stay on the MT until it crosses Hwy 18 at mile marker 16.2.
-Head E on Hwy 18 for 2.5 mi to junction with Valley Rd. Head N on valley Rd for 0.6 mi to junction with Erskine Rd. Head E on Erskine Rd for 3 mi to Cottonwood Rd. Head N on Cottonwood Rd for 0.5 mi to Cottonwood Springs Campground. Ph 605-745-5476 ($10).
Section 10 – Cottonwood Springs Campground to Wind Cave National Park (16 Mi)
-From the campground, return to Erskine Rd and S about one mi to junction with Hwy 18. Head E on Hwy 18 about 4 mi into the town of Hot Springs. Option: Hot Springs has all amenities and could be used as a rest stop before continuing north.
-Follow Hwy 18 which becomes University Av in town take the Freedom Trail N from University Av on the W side of the Fall River. Follow the Freedom Trail N through town for about 0.4 mi to Minnekahta St. Cross back over the river and cross River St and head N 0.5 mi to Battle Mountain Av. Head E on Battle Mountain Av for 3 blks where it turns N and becomes Sherman St as well as Hwy 385.
-Head N out of town on Hwy 385 for about 5 mi to the entrance sign to Wind Cave NP. The pullout at the entrance sign is the trailhead for East Bison Flats Trail. Follow East Bison Flats Trail about 2.5 mi to the junction with Wind Cave Canyon Trail. Head E on Wind Cave Canyon Trail for 0.3 mi to Hwy 385. Cross the hwy and head for the buildings and service road which will lead to the visitor center. Pay park fee at VC. Also obtain a backcountry camping permit if you plan to camp in the backcountry of the park. Follow the park road north for about 0.5 mi and then follow signs for Elk Mountain Campground. ($18 high season) ($9 off season) ph 605-745-4600
Section 11 – The Centennial Trail – Wind Cave National Park to Legion Lake Campground (22 Mi)
-From campground head N on park road to main hwy 385. Head N on 385 for 0.4 mi to junction with 87. Head N on 87 for 0.7 mi to hairpin turn. At this turn is the trailhead for the Centennial Trail (CT). Note: This is the S terminus of the 111 mi CT. The N terminus is at Bear Butte SP. Follow the brown 4’ fiberglass signs with the number 89 on them. They denote the CT when it is not obvious. The CT is primitive in spots and route finding can be difficult. Have a good topo map and a compass for this trail. There are also a network of other trails in many areas. Unless otherwise noted, continue to follow the 89 markers.
-The first section is 6.2 mi to Highland Creek TH where it crosses Highland Creek Rd. From the Norbeck Lake Trailhead, follow the 89 signs for about 1.5 miles and cross the bridge. Follow signs for trail number 6 (Centennial Trailhead/Custer State Park) until it again becomes 89. Continue N to intersection with Highland Ridge Rd and CT trailhead (TH).
-From the Highland Creek TH, cross the road and enter Custer State Park (CSP). Head E and cross Highland Creek. Follow two-track for about 2 mi until it crosses a gate and becomes a single track again. Cross Four Mile Rd at about the four mile mark from the TH. The trail then roughly parallels the Wildlife Loop Rd before crossing it a few miles later. After 1.2 mi, the trail parallels Lame Johnny Rd which leads to the next TH at French Creek Horse Camp. This campground is designed for campers with horse trailers. There is a primitive campsite off West French Creek Trail a bit further up the CT
-From French Creek TH, the trail follows French Creek for a while before continuing N. Follow West French Creek Trail to Primitive camp if needed. After about four mi, there is a trail junction for Mt. Coolidge. The CT continues N to Legion Lake and crosses Hwy 16. Legion Lake Campground is about 0.5 mi E of where the trail crosses the road. Camp fee is $19. Pay Custer State Park use fee here as well. Registration may be needed. Phone number for SD state Park Campgrounds is 1-800-710-2267.
Section 12 – The Centennial Trail = Legion Lake to Horsethief Lake Campground (21 Mi)
-From Legion Lake CG, return to CT TH at Hwy 16. Follow the 89 signs N on a two-track road for about 3 mi, then the trail becomes single track again. The trail merges briefly with American center Rd before crossing Hwy 87. Continue N to Iron Creek Horse Campground.
Note: At this point, the Great Plains Trail leaves the CT briefly in order to connect with the Harney Peak Trail and the South Dakota state high point. At the far end of the Iron Creek Horse Camp, look for the Norbeck TH #3 and follow it mostly W. Note: Please register (free) at the Wilderness sign posts. After about 1.5 mi, the trail briefly parallels Hwy 87 and connects to another TH, the trail then heads more N and NW. After about 2 mi, there is a junction with Trail #4 to Little Devils Tower, stay on the Norbeck Trail #3. In 0.5 mi, there is a junction with Grizzly Trail #7, stay on Norbeck Trail #3.
-In 0.5 mi, there is a junction with Harney peak Trail #9, follow #9 to signage to Harney Peak. The actual summit is a brief Spur Trail W of the main #9 trail. After the summit, return to #9 and head N two mi to Willow Creek Rushmore #5. Head E on Willow Creek Trail for one mi to junction with CT. Head E on CT for 0.5 mi to Hwy 244. Head E on 244 0.1 mi to Horsethief Lake Campground ($26).
-This campground is popular in the summer but might be a good option in the off season. There is primitive camping allowed anywhere in the Black Elk Wilderness (and in the National Forest N of 244) except within 0.25 mi of the Harney Peak Trail (no fires allowed).
Section 13 – The Centennial Trail – Horsethief Lake Campground to North Cove Campground Area (13 Mi)
-From Horsethief Lake CG, return to Hwy 244 and the Big Pine TH of the CT. Follow it N 3.3 mi as it crosses and parallels several small roads before crossing under Hwy 16 to Samelius TH.
-From Samelius TH, follow the trail N and E around Samelius Peak. The trail winds through rugged terrain about 6 mi before dropping to the Sheridan Lake area and the SE corner of the lake at the Calumet TH.
-From the Calumet TH, the CT crosses the dam on the E side of the lake, and then turns N and NE to Dakota Point TH where it crosses Dakota Point Rd (FS 434). Follow the trail another 0.5 mi and just before the trail crosses the paved Sheridan Lake Rd, head S 0.1 mi to the North Cove Campground area. This will be busy in high season, but should be quiet in the off season.
Section 14 – The Centennial Trail – North Cove CG to Merritt, South Dakota (22 Mi)
-From North Cove CG, return to CT where it crosses Sheridan Lake Rd and head NW on two-track rd. This part of the CT goes back and forth between two-track rds and single-track trail. Keep a sharp eye out for trail markers. After 6 mi, trail comes to Brush Creek TH where it crosses Brush Creek Rd.
-From Brush Creek TH, follow the road NE for about 0.5 mi. Head back on the trail and cross several streams over the next 4 mi to Rapid Creek TH near Pactola Reservoir. After a short distance, the CT parallels Hwy 385 for about one mi. Note: There is a visitor center about 0.7 mi S on Hwy 385, which may be needed for rest/information.
-CT crosses 385 at the Pactola Lake boat launch, about 1.0 mi N of the visitor Center. Continue on the W side of the Hwy N and NE about 4 mi to the Deer Creek TH, and junction with Silver City Rd.
-About two mi N of Silver City Rd, the CT crosses Hwy 385 again. At this point, you can continue on CT to Pilot Knob TH, and then back W on Merritt Estes Rd to the hamlet of Merritt, or just head N on 385 about one mi to the town of Merritt. Note: Merritt has two restaurants, a general store, and an RV campground. Primitive camping would also be available in the national forest.
Section 15 – The Centennial Trail – Merritt, South Dakota to Dalton Lake (16 Mi)
-Note: Be aware that this section allows for motorized use. From Merritt, head E on Merritt Estes Rd about one mi to Pilot Knob TH. Head N on CT for about 6 mi as it crosses and occasionally follows FS rds before crossing Boxelder Creek and arriving at Boxelder Creek TH. The small hamlet of Nemo is just to the E. The actual CT skirts the town of Nemo, but the thru hiker will want to re-supply in town. Also, the signage for the CT is trickier here due to the motorized use of the trail.
-From Nemo, head N about 0.5 mi to where the CT crosses Nemo Rd, and then follows it for a short distance before turning E to parallel Vanocker Canyon Rd a short distance, then turns E and then N. The CT follows a dirt road E for about 1.5 mi before dropping to Dalton Lake and Dalton Lake TH. There is a small campground at Dalton Lake ($18).
Section 16 – The Centennial Trail – Dalton Lake to Alkali Creek Campground (25 Mi)
-From Dalton Lake, follow the CT N to where it follows a two track road for 0.3 mi about 1.7 mi from the lake. The trail picks up again and heads N. Follow the CT about 10 mi to Elk Creek TH.
-From Elk Creek TH, continue N on the CT for 10 mi where it crosses the tracks, follows the exit road, and passes under I-90 and on to Alkali Creek TH. There is a small campground just past the trailhead to the E. ($8)
Section 17 – The Centennial Trail – Alkali Creek to Bear Butte State Park (20 Mi – Includes round trip to Bear Butte summit)
-From Alkali Creek TH, follow CT W and the N for over the Dakota Hogback Ridge, and then down to Fort Meade TH – about 6 mi. From Ft. Meade TH, follow gravel road toward Hwy 79 and cross 79. Note: At this point, the town of Sturgis is just to the W if needed. Follow the trail N and NE about 4 mi toward Bear Butte Lake. The CT skirts the S side of the lake before Hwy 79. There is a CG on the north side of the lake. Head E and cross Hwy 79 to the park entrance. Follow the park road briefly E until you see a gate with a trail heading N. Follow this trail N and then E about 1.5 mi to the visitor center. From the VC, there is a 2.7 mi hiking trail to the top of Bear Butte. Return the same way to the campground at the lake, or Sturgis.
Public transportation is limited in Sturgis. Lyft rideshare operates in Rapid City which is a 30 min drive from Sturgis. Rapid City Regional Airport has daily flights to Denver, Salt Lake City, and Minneapolis.
