Stockade Lake North Custer

The trailhead for the Stockade Lake North Custer trail is conveniently located off Highway 16A, near the Gordon Stockade Parking Area. Parking is available at this location.

Yes, Custer State Park requires an entrance license. You can find more information about fees and passes on the official South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website: sd.gov.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are permitted to join you on your hike, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

While enjoyable throughout the warmer months, the trail offers particularly beautiful vistas around sunset. Given its location in the Black Hills, spring, summer, and fall generally provide pleasant hiking conditions.

The trail is generally considered easy, but it does feature some rocky inclines and sections that can be quite rocky. Good footwear is recommended to navigate these portions comfortably. The path winds through ponderosa pines, aspens, and birch trees.

This 1.6-mile loop trail is a convenient option for those with limited time, typically taking between 1 to 2 hours to complete.

Absolutely! The Stockade Lake North Custer trail is known for being family-friendly. Its relatively short length and generally easy rating make it suitable for hikers of most ages, though some rocky sections require attention.

The trail offers scenic views, especially as it follows Stockade Lake, the largest of Custer State Park's five lakes. From higher points, you can enjoy expansive vistas that include Black Elk Peak, the Needles, and even the Crazy Horse Memorial.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the George S. Mickelson Trail, Road 341, and the Stockade Lake Trail.

Hikers should be mindful of tall grass in certain areas and the potential presence of rattlesnakes. The trail is generally well-marked with blue diamonds, but some intersecting paths might cause minor confusion.

Yes, the trail is located near the Gordon Stockade Historic Site, offering a glimpse into the area's history. The lake and trail themselves were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

The Stockade Lake North Custer trail is considered a less popular option within Custer State Park, meaning you can generally expect lighter visitor traffic and a more serene experience.