The Sylvan Lake Shore Trail is located in Custer State Park along the Needles Highway in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Sylvan Lake is the gem of the Black Hills area with something for everyone – trails, swimming, picnic gathering space, and some rock jumping for the adrenaline junkies out there!
This trail is a lovely way to view all sides of the lake and you walk around it. We, my sisters and sister-in-law, walked around the lake while the rest of our family swam (with some rock jumping!) and we were lucky to catch some rock jumping from across the lake. It was so cool (and perfect timing)!
Good to Know
Distance: 1.25 mile loop
Trails: Sylvan Lake Shore
Elevation Gain: 200 ft
Terrain: Packed gravel
Parking: Available at Sylvan Lake
Facilities: Available at Sylvan Lake
Fun Fact: Heads up – the lake is super popular and it was packed when we visited at lunchtime on a Friday afternoon. Some vehicles in our group had to park along the main road and walk in. Also, there is no cell phone service in the park – plan ahead if are traveling in a group!
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Black Hills Travel Guide – a girl can tri
July 8, 2025 at 9:20 pm[…] Sylvan Lake I Lake Swimming (with rock jumping!) and/or hiking […]