4 Best Hikes in Wind Cave National Park

Last updated on July 4th, 2023

Wind Cave National Park Overview

Below you will find the 4 best hikes in Wind Cave National Park! Located in South Dakota, Wind Cave is the 4th longest cave in the world. Named for barometric winds at its entrance, this maze of passages is home to boxwork, a unique formation rarely found elsewhere. Similar to Mammoth Cave National Park, hiking is one of the most underutilized attractions of Wind Cave National Park.

State	South Dakota
Nearest Metro Area	Rapid City, SD
Area Size	28,295 acres
Established	January 9, 1903
Hiking Trails	30 miles

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Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Wind Cave National Park

Lookout Point Trail

Traveling clockwise, the first 1.5 miles is shared with Centennial Trail. There is a lot of variety on this loop, from hills to stretching prairies; and a good chance of seeing bison roaming around. The trailhead is located at the same parking area as Centennial Trail off of the east side of SD-87.

• 4.5 mile loop
• 400′ elevation gain
• Moderate

Rankin Ridge Nature Trail

Self-guided trail with 14 interactive stops along the way. At the top of the ridge, hikers can climb the Lookout Tower Overlook to see extraordinary views at the highest point in the park. The trailhead is located at a parking area off of SD-87 near the North Entrance.

• 1.0 mile loop
• 250′ elevation gain
• Easy

Centennial Trail

This is a small sampling of the 111 mile Centennial trail that extends north to Bear Butte. The trail crosses prairies, ponderosa forests, and winds along Beaver Creek. The trailhead is located at a parking area east of SD-87 and can be combined with Lookout Point Trail for a more enjoyable experience.

• 12.0 miles out and back
• 550′ elevation gain
• Moderate

Boland Ridge Trail

One of the best hikes in Wind Cave National Park for those hoping to see some wildlife. Elk are very popular in this area. The trailhead is located on the eastern side of the park off of Red Valley Road.

• 5.2 miles out and back
• 600′ elevation gain
• Moderate

Featured Image: Pronghorn Antelope, Photo by jb10okie