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

Rapid Creek Trailhead

Rapid Creek Trailhead

South Boxelder Creek Trailhead

South Boxelder Creek Trailhead

Custer Skywalk Trail

Custer Skywalk Trail

Hell Canyon Trail

Hell Canyon Trail

Llewellyn Johns Recreation Area

Llewellyn Johns Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #40L: Deerfield Lake Loop Trail

BHNF Trail #40L: Deerfield Lake Loop Trail

BHNF Trail #9: Sunday Gulch

BHNF Trail #9: Sunday Gulch

BHNF Trail #7: Grizzley Bear Creek

BHNF Trail #7: Grizzley Bear Creek

Fisher Grove State Park

Fisher Grove State Park

BHNF Trail #76: 76 Trail

BHNF Trail #76: 76 Trail

Minnekahata Trailhead

Minnekahata Trailhead

Oakwood Lakes State Park

Oakwood Lakes State Park

Deer Creek Trailhead

Deer Creek Trailhead

Union Grove State Park

Union Grove State Park

Door Trail

Door Trail

Shadehill Recreation Area

Shadehill Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #40: Deerfield Trail

BHNF Trail #40: Deerfield Trail

Carson Draw Trail System (Trail #93)

Carson Draw Trail System (Trail #93)