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

Richmond Lake Recreation Area

Richmond Lake Recreation Area

Springfield Recreation Area

Springfield Recreation Area

Angostura Recreation Area

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Legion Lake Trail

Legion Lake Trail

Oakwood Lakes State Park

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South Boxelder Creek Trailhead

South Boxelder Creek Trailhead

Notch Trail

Notch Trail

Mountain Disc Golf Course

Mountain Disc Golf Course

Lake Cochrane Recreation Area

Lake Cochrane Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #77: Dugout Gulch Botanical Trail

BHNF Trail #77: Dugout Gulch Botanical Trail

Pilot Knob Trailhead

Pilot Knob Trailhead

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area

Dumont Trailhead

Dumont Trailhead

Little Moreau Recreation Area

Little Moreau Recreation Area

Deer Creek Trailhead

Deer Creek Trailhead

Buryanek Recreation Area

Buryanek Recreation Area

Lake Thompson Recreation Area

Lake Thompson Recreation Area