This iconic stone fire lookout sits at 7,244 feet atop Harney Peak (now officially Black Elk Peak), South Dakota’s highest point. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1938, the stone tower offers commanding views across the Black Hills, Badlands, and on clear days, four states. The lookout is accessible via a moderate 3.5-mile round-trip hike through granite spires and ponderosa pine forests.
The trailhead is accessible from multiple routes, with the most popular starting from Sylvan Lake. Summer crowds can be heavy, especially weekends. No camping at the summit, but several Forest Service campgrounds operate nearby. Winter access requires snowshoes or skis, and the lookout is typically unstaffed October through April.
Stone tower atop South Dakota's highest peak
Place Details
| Type | Fire Lookout |
|---|---|
| Street address | Main Street, Hill City, South Dakota 57745 Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 7244 ft |
| Nearest town | Hill City, SD |
| Miles from pavement | 1.8 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Best season | May-October |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |