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

Lake Poinsett Recreation Area

Lake Poinsett Recreation Area

South Side and Valley View Trails at Devils Tower National Monument

South Side and Valley View Trails at Devils Tower National Monument

Grace Coolidge Walk-In Fishing Area at Custer State Park

Grace Coolidge Walk-In Fishing Area at Custer State Park

BHNF Trail #79: Rimrock Trails

BHNF Trail #79: Rimrock Trails

Little Devils Tower Trail

Little Devils Tower Trail

BHNF Trail #88: Cook Lake

BHNF Trail #88: Cook Lake

BHNF Trail #40L: Deerfield Lake Loop Trail

BHNF Trail #40L: Deerfield Lake Loop Trail

Lake Alvin Recreation Area

Lake Alvin Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #64: Crow Peak Trail

BHNF Trail #64: Crow Peak Trail

Creekside Trail at Custer State Park

Creekside Trail at Custer State Park

West Whitlock Recreation Area

West Whitlock Recreation Area

Boland Ridge Trail at Wind Cave National Park

Boland Ridge Trail at Wind Cave National Park

Tamarack Gulch Trailhead

Tamarack Gulch Trailhead

Castle Trail (East)

Castle Trail (East)

Carson Draw Trail System (Trail #93)

Carson Draw Trail System (Trail #93)

Lake Louise Recreation Area

Lake Louise Recreation Area

Indian Creek Recreation Area

Indian Creek Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #72: Big Hill Trails

BHNF Trail #72: Big Hill Trails