Black Hills Overlook

The Black Hills Overlook provides views of the surrounding Pine Ridge and grasslands and Black Hills of South Dakota. Forest Service Road 714A accessed from the western edge of Chadron State Park provides vehicle access to a small parking lot. From the trailhead it’s a short walk to the overlook.

As you pass thru this area on Road 714A you can still see the effects of the 1973 Dead Horse Fire. Most recently the area burned in 2012 with the effects being more noticeable in the overlook area. Some of this area was replanted in the spring of 2018.

The trailhead is also an access point for the Pine Ridge Trail which provides access to these nearby areas:

1.8 miles to Outrider Trailhead
1.1 miles to Chadron State Park Boundary and trail to Chadron State Park Campground.
4.2 miles to Forest Service Road 701 via Road 714A

*No services available. Please pack in pack out your garbage.

Views from the trail

General Information

Year-round

Certified noxious weed-free hay/feed is required on national forest lands.
Motorized vehicles are prohibited on Pine Ridge Trail.

No fee

Dogs must be kept under control.

Getting There

Directions

From Chadron, Nebraska travel south on Highway 385 from the intersection with Highway 20 for approximately 8 miles to the entrance of Chadron State Park. Take the paved loop road through the park. At the west end of the loop look for the gravel road heading west to the Black Hills Overlook. Follow Forest Service Road 714A for 1.5 miles to the parking area and trailhead.

Note: A State Park pass not required for access to National Forest as long as you don’t stop inside the park.