Trails

Deer Creek Trailhead

Two iconic Black Hills trails meet here — just 15 miles from Rapid City in the Central Hills.

About

The Deer Creek Trailhead sits just off Silver City Road, about 15 miles west of Rapid City, and serves as the northernmost trailhead on the Centennial Trail in the Central Hills (Mystic District). It offers dual access to both the Centennial Trail and the eastern end of the Deerfield Trail (#40). The central section of the Centennial Trail spans approximately 29 miles and is open to hikers, backpackers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. Heading north connects to Pilot Knob; heading south puts hikers deeper into the heart of the Black Hills toward Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park. The Deerfield Trail is a 23-mile trail connecting Deerfield Reservoir to the Centennial Trail, winding through deep canyons along Slate Creek and Rapid Creek and crossing over 30 bridges. The trail follows creek canyons lined with sheer granite cliffs and is also accessible to mountain bikers and equestrians. The trail is open year-round, and dogs are welcome on leash. Nearby Pactola Reservoir offers camping and fishing.