South Dakota: Harney Peak (7,242ft)
Ranked #15/50

Highpoint details

Harney Peak is the highest natural point in South Dakota and is located in the Black Elk Wilderness area, in southern Pennington County, in Black Hills National Forest. At 7,242 feet (2,207 m),[1] it is also the highest summit in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains[5] and the highest point in the Black Hills.[2]

The summit can be reached from Sylvan Lake, Camp Remington, Highway 244, Palmer Creek Rd., Mount Rushmore, or Horse Thief Lake. From the trailhead at Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park, to the summit and back is about 7 miles (11 km),[4] This is the shortest, least strenuous, and most popular route. No permit is required for use of the first portion of the trail. However, the United States Forest Service requires hikers to obtain a permit at a self-service kiosk located at the entrance to the Black Elk Wilderness area, en route to the summit.[9]

An old stone tower, once used as a fire lookout tower, is located at the summit. The ashes of Valentine McGillycuddy were interred near the base of the tower and a plaque reads "Valentine McGillycuddy, Wasicu Wacan". Wasitu Wacan is Lakota for "Holy White Man."[10]

trip details

This is where the admin will fill in strategic details about the high-point.  Roughly when it will occur (until a solid date is picked).

Trip Leader: 
Nearest Base: 
Projected Date:
Difficulty: 

Describe how rules are followed:
Safety Plan
Outdoor Recreation Contacts
Chaplains
Size/Mix of Group
Wounded Warriors
Media Outreach

All trip updates and progress will be posted in the blog below

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