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Black Hills National Forest
Hiking Hell Canyon Trail

The first 1/2 mile of trail climbs at a steep pitch with one switchback until you top out on the limestone crest. From there on grades are level to easy. This trail follows a bench below limestone cliffs and provides outstanding views of Hell Canyon and the surrounding area. The last 2.0 miles of trail follows a two-track road along the bottom of the Hell Canyon drainage.

Elevation: 5,400 to 5,700 feet
Length: Loop - 5.5 miles; Spur Trail to observation point -1/2 mile
Location: From Custer: Trailhead is approximately 11.0 miles west on Highway 16. From Jewel Cave: Trailhead is approximately 1.0 mile west of Jewel Cave National Monument entrance on Highway 16.

Trail is maintained for hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. No motorized use is allowed. The trail begins at the trailhead located approximately 100 yards north of US Highway 16 along Forest Development Road number 284.2.

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