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

BHNF Trail #80: Little Spearfish Trail

BHNF Trail #80: Little Spearfish Trail

Little Devils Tower Trail

Little Devils Tower Trail

BHNF Trail #64: Crow Peak Trail

BHNF Trail #64: Crow Peak Trail

Sylvan Lake Shore Trail

Sylvan Lake Shore Trail

French Creek Natural Area

French Creek Natural Area

Lookout Point Trail at Wind Cave National Park

Lookout Point Trail at Wind Cave National Park

BHNF Trail #15: Iron Creek

BHNF Trail #15: Iron Creek

Beaver Creek Nature Area

Beaver Creek Nature Area

Tamarack Gulch Trailhead

Tamarack Gulch Trailhead

Indian Creek Recreation Area

Indian Creek Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #88: Cook Lake

BHNF Trail #88: Cook Lake

Lewis and Clark Recreation Area

Lewis and Clark Recreation Area

Englewood Trailhead

Englewood Trailhead

Red Beds Trail at Devils Tower National Monument

Red Beds Trail at Devils Tower National Monument

BHNF Trail #9: Sunday Gulch

BHNF Trail #9: Sunday Gulch

Burke Lake Recreation Area

Burke Lake Recreation Area

Creekside Trail at Custer State Park

Creekside Trail at Custer State Park

LaFramboise Island Nature Area

LaFramboise Island Nature Area