Black Elk Peak

Once again, we were up early to beat the crowds, but mostly the heat. Our hike planned for today was ambitious. Over 7 miles and 1500 feet of elevation gain from the trailhead. We took Trail 9 up and Trail 4 down. Trail 4 is steeper and feels a little longer, but it winds between the Spires and was too pretty to miss. It was also much less busy. Temps were in the mid 50s when we began and in the mid 80s when we got back. There were so many people just beginning the hike at that time...I can't even imagine that climb in the heat.

The trail is magical. It winds through high meadows, pine forests, and huge rock outcroppings. There are plenty of beautiful overlooks where you can see for miles. There is even one where you look up, way up, and say...I have to climb that? Yep.... But for the most part the trail climbs steadily. It's only toward the top that it gets steep enough that you don't even want to step off a rock in the middle of the trail because you know you're going to have to make that elevation up!

Finally, after several false "this must be it" climbs, we made it to the top marked by the Harney Fire Lookout Tower. Views of the beautiful Black Hills stretch in every direction.

Popular Picnic Spot

This spot was being enjoyed by young and old, singles, couples and families, with quadrapeds and without, those that are fit and those ... those not so much. We encountered a man that was at least 75 years old (yeah!!!).  And of course we had our picnic here too.

Black Elk Peak
Slow and steady worked for us. We were here to enjoy the journey. We reached the peak and rested sitting on the rocks with a full 360° view.  This peak is the highest point between the Rockies and the Pyrenees Mountains in Europe.

This hike was Challenging, but doable.  Our goal now is "doable again in 10 years time". We will see...

It is beautiful up here of course.  As well as on the way up and down. 

The climb started taking its toll on us about 2/3s of the way down.  That last bit kicked our tail (it got Hot!) but we made it. And we Loved it!Read more