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

West Bend Recreation Area

West Bend Recreation Area

Cliff Shelf

Cliff Shelf

Pease Creek Recreation Area

Pease Creek Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #4: Cathedral Spires

BHNF Trail #4: Cathedral Spires

Revheim Bay Recreation Area

Revheim Bay Recreation Area

Rapid Creek Trailhead

Rapid Creek Trailhead

Lakota Lake Trailhead

Lakota Lake Trailhead

BHNF Trail #32: Hell Canyon Trail

BHNF Trail #32: Hell Canyon Trail

Spirit Mound Historic Prairie

Spirit Mound Historic Prairie

Big Sioux Recreation Area

Big Sioux Recreation Area

BHNF Trail #48: Mount Roosevelt

BHNF Trail #48: Mount Roosevelt

Carson Draw Trail System (Trail #93)

Carson Draw Trail System (Trail #93)

Llewellyn Johns Recreation Area

Llewellyn Johns Recreation Area

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

Door Trail

Door Trail

BHNF Trail #68: Eagle Cliff Trails

BHNF Trail #68: Eagle Cliff Trails

Samelius Trailhead

Samelius Trailhead

Sanctuary Trail at Wind Cave National Park

Sanctuary Trail at Wind Cave National Park