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

Castle Trail (West)

Castle Trail (West)

Richmond Lake Recreation Area

Richmond Lake Recreation Area

Roof Trail

Roof Trail

Newton Hills State Park

Newton Hills State Park

Fossil Exhibit Trail

Fossil Exhibit Trail

Deadwood Trailhead

Deadwood Trailhead

Wind Cave Canyon Trail

Wind Cave Canyon Trail

Okobojo Point Recreation Area

Okobojo Point Recreation Area

Sanctuary Trail at Wind Cave National Park

Sanctuary Trail at Wind Cave National Park

Medicine Loop (West)

Medicine Loop (West)

Burke Lake Recreation Area

Burke Lake Recreation Area

Pease Creek Recreation Area

Pease Creek Recreation Area

Chief White Crane Recreation Area

Chief White Crane Recreation Area

Sunday Gulch Trail

Sunday Gulch Trail

Norbeck Trailhead

Norbeck Trailhead

Spearfish Canyon Nature Area

Spearfish Canyon Nature Area

Lakota Lake Trailhead

Lakota Lake Trailhead

Pierson Ranch Recreation Area

Pierson Ranch Recreation Area