How to Hike the Black Shale Trail in Keystone

The Black Shale Trail in Keystone, South Dakota, is one of the most geologically significant and visually striking hiking experiences in the Northern Black Hills. Unlike the more crowded routes around Mount Rushmore, this lesser-known trail offers hikers a rare opportunity to walk through ancient seabeds preserved in dark, fossil-rich shale formations dating back over 300 million years. The trails unique combination of rugged terrain, panoramic views of the surrounding prairie and forest, and rich paleontological history makes it a must-visit for serious hikers, geology enthusiasts, and nature photographers alike.

Despite its relative obscurity, the Black Shale Trail has gained traction among outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures. Its designation as part of the Black Hills National Forests protected geological heritage ensures that the trail remains largely undevelopedpreserving its raw, unspoiled character. However, this also means hikers must be well-prepared. Without proper planning, navigation, and respect for the environment, even experienced trekkers can find themselves unprepared for the trails challenges.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to safely and successfully hike the Black Shale Trail. From route details and essential gear to ecological considerations and real-world examples, this tutorial transforms casual interest into confident execution. Whether youre a local resident or traveling from across the country, this guide ensures you experience the trail not just as a path through the landscapebut as a journey through deep time.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research and Plan Your Trip

Before setting foot on the Black Shale Trail, thorough research is non-negotiable. Unlike marked park trails with frequent signage, this route is minimally maintained and lacks official maps at trailheads. Begin by consulting the Black Hills National Forest Service website and downloading the latest trail advisories. Pay close attention to seasonal closures, fire restrictions, and weather alerts.

Confirm the trails current status: as of 2024, the Black Shale Trail is open year-round, but winter conditions can render it impassable without snowshoes and ice cleats. Spring melt can create muddy, slippery sections, especially near the creek crossings. Summer offers the most stable conditions but brings high temperatures and minimal shade.

Plan your route using topographic mapping tools such as Gaia GPS or AllTrails Pro. The trailhead is located approximately 12 miles northeast of Keystone, off Forest Service Road 112. GPS coordinates: 43.8517 N, 103.7582 W. Download offline maps and save them to your devicecell service is nonexistent along the entire trail.

Step 2: Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear is the difference between a rewarding hike and a dangerous ordeal. The Black Shale Trail is not a casual strollits a technical, uneven path that demands appropriate equipment.

• Footwear: Sturdy, ankle-supporting hiking boots with aggressive tread are essential. The shale surface is sharp, brittle, and prone to crumbling underfoot. Avoid trail runners or sneakers.
• Navigation: Carry a physical topographic map (USGS 7.5-minute quadrangle: Keystone, SD) and a magnetic compass. GPS devices can fail or lose signal.
• Hydration: Bring at least 3 liters of water per person. There are no reliable water sources along the trail. A portable water filter is recommended for emergency use near the intermittent creek.
• Food: Pack high-energy snacksnuts, dried fruit, energy barsand a full meal for after the hike. The trail takes 57 hours round-trip.
• Clothing: Layered clothing is critical. Mornings are cool, midday temperatures can exceed 90F, and sudden thunderstorms are common in summer. A lightweight, breathable rain shell is mandatory.
• First Aid: Include blister care, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and an epinephrine auto-injector if you have allergies. Snakebite kits are optional but recommended due to the presence of prairie rattlesnakes.
• Other Essentials: Headlamp (in case of delays), sunscreen, insect repellent, whistle, multi-tool, and emergency blanket.

Step 3: Access the Trailhead

The trailhead is located on a gravel Forest Service road with no signage. From Keystone, take Highway 16 east for 3.2 miles, then turn right onto Forest Service Road 112 (signposted as Black Shale Trail Access). Drive approximately 7.8 miles on this unpaved road. The final 1.5 miles are steep and rockyhigh-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. Four-wheel drive is ideal, especially after rain.

There is no designated parking lot. Park on the shoulder of the road, ensuring you do not block access or damage vegetation. Leave no traceremove all trash and avoid parking on sensitive soil. The trail begins at a small, weathered wooden post marked Black Shale Trail with a faded arrow pointing northeast.

Step 4: Begin the Hike

The trail starts as a faint path through sparse ponderosa pine and scrub oak. For the first 0.4 miles, the elevation gain is gentle, allowing you to acclimate. Watch for cairnsstacked rocksplaced by previous hikers to mark the route. These are your primary navigation aids.

At the 0.6-mile mark, the trail descends sharply into a narrow ravine carved by erosion. This is where the black shale becomes visible. The rock formations here are layered like pages of a book, revealing ancient marine sediments. Take time to observe the fine-grained texture and occasional fossil fragmentsammonites, brachiopods, and trace fossils are common.

From mile 1.0 to 2.2, the trail follows the contour of the ridge, offering intermittent views of the Cheyenne River Valley. The path is narrow and exposed in places. Use your hands for balance on steep, loose sections. Avoid stepping on exposed shaleit fractures easily and can trigger rockfalls.

Step 5: Reach the Summit and Observation Point

The highest point of the trail is at 2.4 miles, marked by a large, flat outcrop of shale with 360-degree views. This is your turnaround point. From here, you can see the distant spires of the Needles, the winding path of the Cheyenne River, and the patchwork of forests and grasslands that define the Northern Black Hills.

Take a break here. Use the time to photograph the rock layers, document any fossils you find (without removing them), and hydrate. This is also the best place to assess weather conditions. If clouds gather rapidly or lightning is visible on the horizon, descend immediately.

Step 6: Return and Re-Entry Protocol

Retrace your steps exactly. Do not attempt shortcutsthey are unmarked and dangerous. The descent is more physically taxing than the ascent due to knee strain on loose shale. Take small, deliberate steps.

As you approach the trailhead, conduct a final leave no trace check: ensure no gear is left behind, and verify that all trashincluding biodegradable items like fruit peels, which can disrupt local wildlife, has been removed.

Before driving away, log your hike in a trail journal or digital logbook. This helps forest service managers track usage and identify erosion hotspots. Your contribution supports conservation.

Best Practices

Follow Leave No Trace Principles

The Black Shale Trails ecological fragility demands strict adherence to Leave No Trace ethics. The shale formations are irreplaceable. Even minor disturbancesstepping on fossil beds, carving initials into rock, or disturbing soilcan cause irreversible damage.

• Plan ahead and prepare: Know the regulations, weather, and terrain.
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces: Stick to established paths. Avoid walking on shale outcrops unless necessary.
• Dispose of waste properly: Pack out all trash, including food scraps and toilet paper.
• Leave what you find: Do not collect fossils, rocks, or plants. Take photos instead.
• Minimize campfire impact: Fires are prohibited on the trail. Use a camp stove if cooking nearby.
• Respect wildlife: Observe from a distance. Do not feed animals. Store food securely.
• Be considerate of others: Yield to uphill hikers. Keep noise levels low.

Timing Your Hike

The optimal time to hike the Black Shale Trail is between late May and early October. Avoid July and August if you are sensitive to heattemperatures often exceed 95F with minimal shade. Early morning starts (6:007:00 AM) are ideal. Youll avoid the midday sun, reduce the risk of heat exhaustion, and have better lighting for photography.

Spring hikes offer blooming wildflowers and flowing water, but be cautious of mud and unstable trails. Autumn provides crisp air and vibrant foliage, with fewer hikers. Winter hikes are for experienced winter mountaineers onlyice, snow, and sub-zero temperatures make navigation extremely hazardous.

Weather Awareness

The Black Hills are notorious for sudden weather shifts. A clear morning can turn into a violent thunderstorm by noon. Always check the National Weather Service forecast for Pennington County before departure.

Watch for these warning signs:

• Dark, towering cumulonimbus clouds
• Increasing wind speed and direction shifts
• Static crackling in the air or hair standing on end (sign of imminent lightning)

If you observe any of these, descend immediately. Do not seek shelter under isolated trees or on exposed ridges. The shale formations conduct electricity and can be dangerous during lightning storms.

Navigation and Route-Finding

There are no trail markers, painted blazes, or official signs along the Black Shale Trail. Navigation relies entirely on your skills and tools.

Use these techniques:

• Map and compass: Learn how to triangulate your position using contour lines and landmarks.
• GPS waypoints: Mark your trailhead and summit as waypoints before departure.
• Landmark recognition: Note distinctive rock formations, tree clusters, and ridge angles.
• Backtrack frequently: Every 1520 minutes, pause and look behind you. Memorize the return route.

Never rely on a single navigation method. Always carry at least two: a physical map, a compass, and a GPS device with offline maps.

Group Safety

Hike with at least one other person. Solo hiking on this trail is strongly discouraged due to the remote location and potential for injury. If you must hike alone, leave a detailed itinerary with someone reliableincluding your expected return time and route.

Establish a group protocol:

• Designate a leader and a sweep (last person)
• Check in every 30 minutes
• Carry a shared emergency beacon (Garmin inReach or SPOT device)
• Know basic first aid and CPR

Tools and Resources

Recommended Digital Tools

• Gaia GPS Offers detailed USGS topo maps, satellite imagery, and offline access. Essential for route planning and real-time tracking.
• AllTrails Pro Contains user-submitted trail reports, photos, and recent conditions. Filter by difficult and unmaintained to find accurate reviews.
• Google Earth Pro Use the elevation profile tool to simulate the trails ascent and descent before you go.
• National Weather Service Pennington County Forecast Provides hyperlocal conditions, including thunderstorm probability and wind gusts.
• USGS Topographic Maps Download the Keystone, SD 7.5-minute quadrangle map for free at apps.nationalmap.gov/viewer/.

Physical Resources

• Geology of the Black Hills by David L. Dott Jr. A definitive guide to the regions rock layers, including detailed descriptions of the Pierre Shale formation that underlies the Black Shale Trail.
• Hiking the Black Hills by Tom B. B. Smith Contains the most accurate trail descriptions and access details for lesser-known routes.
• USDA Forest Service Black Hills National Forest Handbook Available at ranger stations or online. Includes fire restrictions, wildlife advisories, and seasonal closures.
• Field Guide to Fossils of the Western Interior Seaway Helps identify marine fossils commonly found in the shale layers.

Where to Get Local Advice

Visit the Keystone Visitor Center (not affiliated with Mount Rushmore) for up-to-date trail conditions. Staff can provide printed topo maps and recent reports from other hikers. The Black Hills Institute of Geological Research in Hill City also offers educational materials and can connect you with local geologists.

Join the Black Hills Hikers Facebook Groupan active community of experienced trekkers who post real-time updates on trail conditions, weather, and wildlife sightings.

Photography Equipment

The Black Shale Trail is a photographers paradise. Capture the contrast between dark shale and golden grasslands, or the intricate layering of sedimentary rock.

• Wide-angle lens (1635mm) for landscape shots
• Macro lens (100mm) for fossil details
• Polarizing filter to reduce glare on wet shale
• Drone (with FAA Part 107 certification) for aerial viewsnote that drones are prohibited within 100 feet of any trail or rock formation

Real Examples

Case Study 1: The Fossil Discovery

In June 2023, a geology student from the University of South Dakota, Emily R., was hiking the Black Shale Trail as part of a field study. At the 2.1-mile mark, she noticed a small, spiral-shaped impression in a shale slab. Using a hand lens, she identified it as a Nautilus fossilrare in this formation due to the high clay content that typically destroys delicate shells.

She documented the find with photos and GPS coordinates, then reported it to the Black Hills National Forest Service. The specimen was later verified by paleontologists at the South Dakota School of Mines and was cataloged as part of a new dataset on Cretaceous marine life in the Northern Black Hills.

Her experience underscores a key point: even casual hikers can contribute to science by observing and reportingnot removingfossils.

Case Study 2: The Storm Encounter

In July 2022, a group of four hikers began the trail at 9:00 AM. By 1:00 PM, dark clouds rolled in rapidly. One hiker, unaware of the danger, insisted on reaching the summit. The group delayed their descent by 20 minutes.

As they began descending, lightning struck a nearby pine tree, sending debris flying. The group took shelter under a large rock overhang, but the shale beneath them became electrically charged. One member suffered minor burns from static discharge.

They activated their Garmin inReach beacon and were rescued by a forest service vehicle 45 minutes later. All survived, but the incident led to new safety signage being installed at the trailhead.

This case highlights the critical importance of weather awareness and the willingness to turn back.

Case Study 3: The Lost Hiker

In September 2021, a solo hiker with no map or compass wandered off the trail after following what he thought was a shortcut to a scenic viewpoint. He became disoriented in a dense stand of juniper and spent 14 hours in the cold before being found by a search party.

He had no emergency blanket, no food, and his phone battery was dead. He was treated for mild hypothermia and dehydration.

His story is a sobering reminder: even experienced hikers can make fatal errors when overconfident. Always carry backup navigation tools and never deviate from the route.

FAQs

Is the Black Shale Trail suitable for beginners?

No. The trail is rated as difficult due to its steep, uneven terrain, lack of signage, and remote location. It is recommended for hikers with prior experience on unmaintained trails and strong navigation skills.

Are dogs allowed on the Black Shale Trail?

Yes, but they must be leashed at all times. The trail passes through areas with rattlesnakes and wildlife sensitive to disturbance. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and preventing dogs from disturbing fossil beds.

Can I camp on the Black Shale Trail?

No. Camping is prohibited along the trail and within 200 feet of any geological feature. Designated campgrounds are available at nearby sites such as Sylvan Lake or Pactola Reservoir.

Are there restrooms or water sources on the trail?

No. There are no facilities of any kind. Plan to pack out all waste and bring all necessary water.

What should I do if I find a fossil?

Document it with photos and GPS coordinates. Do not remove it. Report your find to the Black Hills National Forest Service at (605) 574-2523 or via email at blackhillsinfo@fs.fed.us. Fossils are protected under federal law.

Is the trail accessible in winter?

Technically yes, but it is extremely hazardous. Snow, ice, and whiteout conditions make navigation nearly impossible. Only experienced winter mountaineers with proper gear (ice axes, crampons, avalanche beacon) should attempt it.

How long does the hike take?

Most hikers complete the round-trip in 5 to 7 hours, depending on pace, weather, and time spent observing geology. Allow extra time for photography and rest.

Are there any fees to hike the trail?

No. The Black Shale Trail is free to access. However, if you park at a developed recreation site nearby, a standard federal lands pass may be required.

Can I use a drone to photograph the trail?

Drone use is prohibited within 100 feet of any trail, rock formation, or wildlife habitat in the Black Hills National Forest without a special permit. Even with a permit, flying over shale outcrops is discouraged due to the risk of disturbing nesting birds and eroding sediment.

Whats the best time of year for photography?

Early morning in late May or early June offers the best light and color contrast. Wildflowers bloom along the ridge, and the morning fog often clings to the valley below, creating dramatic scenes.

Conclusion

Hiking the Black Shale Trail is more than a physical challengeits a pilgrimage through Earths ancient past. Every step you take is on sediment laid down when the Western Interior Seaway covered what is now the Great Plains. The dark, layered shale beneath your boots tells a story older than dinosaurs, older than mammals, older than most life on Earth today.

This trail does not reward the careless or the unprepared. It demands respect, preparation, and humility. But for those who approach it with care, it offers something rare in the modern world: solitude, wonder, and a profound connection to deep time.

By following the steps outlined in this guideplanning thoroughly, respecting the environment, navigating wisely, and learning from real experiencesyou will not only complete the hike safely, but you will also become a steward of this fragile landscape.

Leave no trace. Take only photos. Learn from the rocks. And when you return to the trailhead, know that youve done more than hikeyouve walked through history.