Centennial Trail: Bear Butte Lake Trailhead

The Centennial Trail is a premier long-distance hiking and biking route that stretches over 100 miles through the Black Hills of South Dakota, from Bear Butte State Park near Sturgis to Wind Cave National Park near Hot Springs. This scenic trail takes you through a diverse range of landscapes, including pine forests, open meadows, granite formations, and creek-lined valleys. Popular access points can be found near Sturgis, Deadwood, Pactola Lake, Hill City, and Custer, making it easy to explore shorter sections or plan multi-day adventures. The trail is ideal for hiking, trail running, mountain biking in certain sections, and horseback riding. Along the way, you may encounter wildlife such as deer, turkeys, and even bison in southern areas. The Centennial Trail offers a true Black Hills experience for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.