Strawberry Hill Fire Tower Road
Technical climb to historic Black Hills fire tower
Strawberry Hill Fire Tower Road ascends 1,400 feet in just 3.5 miles through dense ponderosa pine forest northwest of Custer, ending at one of the Black Hills’ last operational fire towers. The route features loose rock, steep grades exceeding 15%, and narrow switchbacks that demand precise vehicle control. The infamous “Rock Garden” section near mile 2 has claimed undercarriages from overconfident drivers attempting it without proper clearance.
This is technical territory requiring 4WD with low range, skid plates, and aggressive tires. Summer and early fall provide the best conditions – winter access is closed. The 60-foot fire tower at the summit offers 360-degree views across the Black Hills, making the challenging climb worthwhile. Popular with serious 4×4 enthusiasts but not for novices or stock vehicles. No camping at the tower, but dispersed camping available along lower sections of the road.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Scenic, Technical |
| Length (miles) | 7 mi / 11.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6200 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD with low-range and skid plates |
| Nearest town | Custer, South Dakota |
| Land manager | US Forest Service - Black Hills National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle this trail?
Yes, but you'll need low-range and skid plates are highly recommended for the rocky sections. Stock clearance is adequate but the technical climbs will test your approach angles.
Is the trail passable in early spring or late fall?
Trail is typically closed November through April due to snow and ice. Even in May and October, morning frost can make the steep rocky sections treacherous.
Do I need permits to drive to the fire tower?
No permits required, it's a public Forest Service road. However, the fire tower itself may be locked depending on fire season restrictions.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
The final 2 miles before the tower are the most technical, with steep grades over loose rock and tight switchbacks. Take your time and use low-range throughout.
Are there camping spots along the trail?
Yes, dispersed camping is allowed in the Black Hills National Forest with several flat spots available partway up. No facilities, so pack out everything and follow Leave No Trace principles.