South Dakota might just be the most underrated state in the country. Yes, we’re home to Mount Rushmore, in all its star-spangled splendor, but there really is so much more to discover in our beautiful state! Custer State Park, where the famous national park is located, is 71,000 acres of rugged beauty in South Dakota’s wondrous Black Hills. While the presidential busts tend to take the spotlight, this beautiful national park is home to many other scenic areas and granite peaks. In fact, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to start when visiting Custer State Park! We have a suggestion: the Sunday Gulch Trail. This easy loop trail is just under four miles long, and offers some of the prettiest scenery in South Dakota. Let’s take a hike!
Deep within in Custer State Park, you’ll find a hiking trail that really showcases the beauty of South Dakota.
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The Sunday Gulch Trail is a 3.9-mile loop trail that really should be on any South Dakotan’s bucket list.
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While admittedly a bit steep and rocky at times, the vistas you’ll see along the Sunday Gulch Trail are well-worth the effort.
Ashton Braun/AllTrails
The trail actually starts with a fairly steep downward hike. There are handrails and paved steps, but take your time!
William Bowen/AllTrails
Dogs on leashes are allowed on the trail, but you may need to carry your pup at the start of the hike, as there are some steep spots that may prove challenging to smaller four-legged friends!
Paul Cook/AllTrails
This trail really gives you an up-close look at South Dakota’s iconic granite formations and peaks… and we mean, up close.
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Prepare to do a little navigating through some narrow, rocky areas. But then suddenly, the landscape opens up, and you get views like this.
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The trail’s most noteworthy feature is Sylvan Lake, one of the park’s most popular and photographed spots.
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From the Sunday Gulch Trail, you’ll see some of the most extraordinary views of this pristine lake!
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You’ll absolutely want to stop and soak it all up.
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There are so many beautiful hikes you can take in South Dakota, but the Sunday Gulch Trail is absolutely one of the most spectacular.
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A few things of note: Custer State Park charges an admission fee of $20/vehicle that is valid for one week. Annual passes can be purchased for $36 for the first vehicle and $18 for a second vehicle. More information can be found at the national park’s website.
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Ashton Braun/AllTrails
William Bowen/AllTrails
Paul Cook/AllTrails
Isabel Sullivan/AllTrails
Bryan Holekamp/AllTrails
Stefano Salvetti/DigitalVision Collection via Getty Images
Jenna Clemons/AllTrails
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Tell us: have you hiked the Sunday Gulch Trail before? If so, what did you think? What are some of your other favorite places to hike in Custer State Park? Please share them in the comments below!
Custer, South Dakota, is really a place you’ll want to stop and stay awhile, and you can learn more about this winsome town in this feature!
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Address: Sunday Gulch Trailhead, Custer, SD 57730, USA
