Alkali Creek Trailhead

The Alkali Creek Trailhead serves as a key access point for the Centennial Trail in the Black Hills, located just off Exit 34 on Interstate 90 in the Fort Meade Recreation Area, roughly half a mile from the highway. Fort Meade Recreation Area spans approximately 6,700 acres of forest and grassland, managed for its cultural, historic, recreational, and wildlife values, and adjoins both the Black Hills National Cemetery and Bear Butte State Park. From the trailhead, hikers can head 12 miles north to Bear Butte, or turn south into Black Hills National Forest toward Wind Cave National Park, the southern terminus of the 111-mile Centennial Trail. The trail is open to hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. A self-guided nature trail of just over half a mile offers sweeping views of Bear Butte and wildlife-watching opportunities, making it ideal for families. Picnic facilities, restrooms, and drinking water are available on-site, and camping is permitted seasonally.