Sunday Gulch Trail, Custer State Park, South Dakota

If you’re dreaming of a hike that delivers granite rock faces, bubbling creeks and just enough adventure to feel like you’ve earned your lunch without feeling overwhelmed, Sunday Gulch Trail in Custer State Park is your perfect match. Wrapped behind the postcard-worthy Sylvan Lake in the Black Hills, this loop trail brings together all the elements that make hiking satisfying: nature, quiet and a hint of thrill.

🌲 A Trail That Surprises You (In the Best Way)

Don’t let the rocky name fool you. Sunday Gulch is surprisingly beginner-friendly if you come prepared. The 3.9-mile loop dips you into a gulch lined with towering granite walls, trickling waterfalls and shady pine forests. There are a few sections where you’ll need to use handrails or step across wet rocks, but that’s part of the fun—this isn’t just a walk in the woods; it’s an experience.

The best part? The trail forms a loop, so you won’t need to backtrack. Just start at Sylvan Lake and follow the signs. Along the way, you’ll encounter scenic bridges, cool creek crossings and unexpected wildlife (look out for deer and mountain goats). For making the most of it, read our guide on do’s and don’ts if encountering wildlife while hiking!

🌟 Trail Highlights Worth the Trek

💦 Waterfall Moments: After snowmelt or rainfall, small waterfalls trickle down granite formations, creating dreamy pockets of sound and movement.

🪨 Stone Steps & Handrails: These thoughtful features help make the steeper sections safe and accessible for newer hikers—just wear shoes with good grip.

🌲 Pine Forest Ambience: The trail winds through towering Black Hills forest, providing ample shade and that classic outdoorsy aroma we all love.

📍 Know Before You Go

  • Location: Custer State Park, near Sylvan Lake
  • GPS Coordinates: 43.8647° N, 103.5565° W
  • Distance: 3.9 miles (loop)
  • Elevation Gain: ~600 feet
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (great for fit beginners or those up for a small challenge)
  • Time Needed: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
  • Dog-Friendly: No (dogs not allowed on this trail)
  • Best Season: May to October (avoid in icy conditions)
  • Entry Fee: $20/vehicle for park entry (or use your America the Beautiful Pass)
  • Parking: Sylvan Lake Day Use Area (popular spot—arrive early)

🎒 What to Bring

A little prep goes a long way. Pack smart with:

  • Sturdy hiking shoes with grip (rocks can be slippery)
  • 1–2 liters of water
  • Sunscreen (some sunny stretches)
  • Bug spray (especially early summer)
  • A lightweight backpack
  • A camera or phone for granite cliff and waterfall shots
  • Downloaded trail map or GPS app (limited service)

💡 Need gear recommendations? Check out our beginner-friendly hiking gear picks for essentials that won’t break the bank.

✅ Why It Belongs on Your Beginner Bucket List

Sunday Gulch Trail gives beginners the chance to explore granite canyons, hear the rush of gentle waterfalls, and feel the cool calm of a shaded pine forest. It offers a little adventure without the stress of a strenuous hike. With its rock formations, trickling creeks, and quiet forest pathways, this South Dakota favorite is the perfect introduction to hiking in the Black Hills. It helps new hikers build confidence while still feeling like a real outdoor escape.