Bear Butte’s Summit Trail is 1.85 miles one way and climbs more than 900 feet to the 4,426-foot summit. Bear Butte State Park is 12 miles from Suzies Camp at I-90 Exit 34 near Sturgis, about 25 minutes.
Why is Bear Butte sacred?
Bear Butte, Mato Paha to the Lakota, is a sacred mountain to many Plains tribes. People still come here to pray, fast and hold ceremonies, so the trail is a place of worship as much as a hike. Walk quietly, keep to the trail and give people space.
What are the prayer cloths on the trees?
The colored cloths and small bundles tied to branches along the trail are prayer cloths and tobacco ties, left as offerings. The park’s rule is simple: don’t touch or disturb them, and don’t photograph them.
What are the rules?
- Pets are not allowed on the Summit Trail.
- Alcohol is not allowed east of Highway 79.
- A South Dakota park entrance license is required: $10 a day per vehicle for residents, $15 for nonresidents (annual licenses $40 and $60).
- The trail is open from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.
How hard is the hike?
Steady and steep in places, on rocky switchbacks. Plan on two to three hours round trip at an easy pace, and bring more water than you think: the wind and sun on the upper mountain dry you out fast.
When should I go?
Early morning in summer, before the heat. Spring and fall are the most comfortable. Skip it in thunderstorms: the summit is exposed.
Is Bear Butte part of the Centennial Trail?
Yes. Bear Butte is the north end of the 111-mile Centennial Trail, which runs south through the Black Hills to Wind Cave National Park. The trail passes through the Fort Meade Recreation Area at Exit 34, the same exit as camp: our Fort Meade guide.
Stay at Suzies Camp
Suzies Camp is a quiet, owner-run campground at I-90 Exit 34 near Sturgis, South Dakota: 18 dry cabins, 60 RV sites and 15 tent sites. See drive times to the whole Black Hills.