Mickelson Trail: White Elephant Trailhead

The Stockade Lake Spur is a delightful 3.2-mile diversion that connects the main Mickelson Trail to the scenic shores of Stockade Lake within Custer State Park. This spur trail offers a more intimate and wooded experience, winding through thick stands of pine and across gentle ridges. As you travel toward the lake, you'll be treated to beautiful views of the Harney Range and the unique rock formations that make Custer State Park famous. The White Elephant Trailhead is located in a beautiful, rolling landscape south of Custer. This section of the trail is defined by its open ponderosa pine forests and the presence of dramatic granite formations. The terrain is characterized by gentle ups and downs that follow the natural contours of the hills, providing an engaging and scenic ride. Historically, this area was known for its mining and ranching activities, and remnants of old homesteads can still be seen in the distance. The environment is quiet and less traveled than the sections near Hill City and Deadwood, offering a true sense of solitude.