Stockade Lake Trail

The Stockade Lake Trail is a 1.5-mile loop on the north side of Stockade Lake in Custer State Park, climbing through ponderosa pine forest to a ridgeline with some of the most expansive views available on any short trail in the park. From the top, Black Elk Peak, Cathedral Spires, and Little Devil's Tower all come into view — a remarkable panorama for a trail that takes most hikers under an hour to complete. The trail begins near the boat dock off Highway 16A, marked with blue diamond blazes throughout. It follows the lake for much of the lower section before climbing steeply to the ridge — the elevation gain of around 300 feet makes it moderate rather than easy, and sturdy footwear is recommended. Some sections have tall grass along the edges, so hikers should watch for rattlesnakes, especially in summer. The historic Gordon Stockade — a replica of the original 1874 illegal gold prospecting camp that put the Black Hills gold rush in motion — sits within view of the trailhead and makes a natural companion stop before or after the hike.