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

Sandy Shore Recreation Area

Sandy Shore Recreation Area

Spring Creek Recreation Area

Spring Creek Recreation Area

Brush Creek Trailhead

Brush Creek Trailhead

Sylvan Lake Shore Trail

Sylvan Lake Shore Trail

Deadwood Trailhead

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BHNF Trail #88: Cook Lake

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Stockade Lake Trail

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Sunday Gulch Trail

Sunday Gulch Trail

Door Trail

Door Trail

Beaver Creek Nature Area

Beaver Creek Nature Area

Grace Coolidge Walk-In Fishing Area at Custer State Park

Grace Coolidge Walk-In Fishing Area at Custer State Park

BHNF Trail #80: Little Spearfish Trail

BHNF Trail #80: Little Spearfish Trail

East Bison Flats Trail at Wind Cave National Park

East Bison Flats Trail at Wind Cave National Park

Rapid Creek Trailhead

Rapid Creek Trailhead

Pierson Ranch Recreation Area

Pierson Ranch Recreation Area

Walkers Point Recreation Area

Walkers Point Recreation Area

Lake Louise Recreation Area

Lake Louise Recreation Area

Snake Creek Recreation Area

Snake Creek Recreation Area