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Lilly pads in a swamp
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Black Elk Wilderness

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Photograph taken in  the  Black Elk Wilderness

Introduction

The United States Congress designated the Black Elk Wilderness (map) in 1980 and it now has a total of 13,426 acres. All of this wilderness is located in South Dakota and is managed by the Forest Service.

Description

The Black Elk Wilderness lies in the center of the Black Hills National Forest in western South Dakota. The wilderness encompasses the Harney Range, an area long held sacred by Native Americans. The wilderness is named after Black Elk, a Oglala Lakota holy man. It is the only wilderness in the Black Hills. Deer, elk, turkey, mountain lions and a number of bird species make their home among the rugged granite spires. The wilderness is surrounded by the 35,000 acre Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, managed for the benefit of wildlife. Trails weave through the wilderness for primitive, non-motorized recreation experience. Harney Peak Trail #9 is a concentrated use area, if you are seeking solitude use another trail.

Planning to Visit the Black Elk Wilderness?

Leave No Trace

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Black Elk Wilderness.
  1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
  2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
  3. Dispose of Waste Properly
  4. Leave What You Find
  5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
  6. Respect Wildlife
  7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
For more information on Leave No Trace, Visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website.