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

Sheps Canyon Recreation Area

Sheps Canyon Recreation Area

Flying V Trail

Flying V Trail

North Point Recreation Area

North Point Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #40: Deerfield Trail

BHNF Trail #40: Deerfield Trail

Snake Creek Recreation Area

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Norbeck Trailhead

Norbeck Trailhead

Lake Thompson Recreation Area

Lake Thompson Recreation Area

Cow Creek Recreation Area

Cow Creek Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #66: Old Baldy Trail

BHNF Trail #66: Old Baldy Trail

BHNF Trail #72: Big Hill Trails

BHNF Trail #72: Big Hill Trails

Walkers Point Recreation Area

Walkers Point Recreation Area

French Creek Trailhead Horse Camp

French Creek Trailhead Horse Camp

The Mountain Trailhead

The Mountain Trailhead

Custer Spur to Stockade Lake Trail

Custer Spur to Stockade Lake Trail

Hell Canyon Trail

Hell Canyon Trail

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

Shadehill Recreation Area

Shadehill Recreation Area

Edgemont Trailhead

Edgemont Trailhead