Canyons Trail

Explore the surface resources and geologic features of the Monument by hiking in the backcountry.
The trail begins at the covered patio outside the visitor center lobby and winds its way down into Lithograph Canyon.
Turning right at a fence, hikers enter Hell Canyon and stroll along a combination of unpaved roads and open meadows to a sign that leads to the historic entrance. From there, it is around one mile back to the visitor center.
Hiking Time: ~ 2-4 hours
Terrain: ~ Moderate to steep inclines. Not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.

Trail Elevation:
Trail Difficulty: Easy, Moderate
Trail Distance: ~ 3.5 miles (5.6 km)

South Dakota Trails / State Parks

Richmond Lake Recreation Area

Richmond Lake Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #72: Big Hill Trails

BHNF Trail #72: Big Hill Trails

Tamarack Gulch Trailhead

Tamarack Gulch Trailhead

Indian Creek Recreation Area

Indian Creek Recreation Area

Spring Creek Recreation Area

Spring Creek Recreation Area

Sanctuary Trail at Wind Cave National Park

Sanctuary Trail at Wind Cave National Park

Deer Creek Trailhead

Deer Creek Trailhead

Chief White Crane Recreation Area

Chief White Crane Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #76: 76 Trail

BHNF Trail #76: 76 Trail

Dumont Trailhead

Dumont Trailhead

Serenity Trail

Serenity Trail

Pelican Lake Recreation Area

Pelican Lake Recreation Area

Lake Cochrane Recreation Area

Lake Cochrane Recreation Area

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

Revheim Bay Recreation Area

Revheim Bay Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #9: Harney Peak North

BHNF Trail #9: Harney Peak North

BHNF Trail #77: Dugout Gulch Botanical Trail

BHNF Trail #77: Dugout Gulch Botanical Trail

BHNF Trail #40: Deerfield Trail

BHNF Trail #40: Deerfield Trail