Bear Butte
4,409 ft | 1 trails | South Dakota
4,409 ft
1 routes
Easy
About Bear Butte
Bear Butte is a 4,409-foot summit in South Dakota. The Bear Butte Trail is a 1.8-mile hike with about 32 feet of elevation gain. Nearby peaks include Custer Peak, Terry Peak and Deer Mountain. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL); verify current conditions with the official land manager before you go.
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Check Current Conditions
Trail conditions change frequently. Check the official land manager's site (linked under Data Sources on this page) and the NWS forecast before your hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Bear Butte?
Hiking time varies by trail and fitness level. Most popular routes take 4-8 hours round trip. Check individual trail descriptions for specific estimates.
Is Bear Butte hard to hike?
Difficulty varies by route. There are options ranging from moderate to strenuous. Beginners should start with easier trails and work up to more challenging routes.
Do I need a permit to hike Bear Butte?
Most trails don't require permits for day hiking. Some trailheads may require a parking pass or fee. Check current regulations before your visit.
Safety Information
Current Hazards
- Afternoon thunderstorms
- Dehydration risk
- UV exposure above treeline
Turn-Around Time
1:00 PM (2:00 PM summer)
Plan to reach the summit by this time to allow safe descent before dark.
Essential Gear Checklist
* Critical items - do not hike without these
Emergency Contacts
Nearby Peaks
Explore other mountains near Bear Butte. Great for peak-bagging or planning your next adventure.
Custer Peak
6,795 ft
Terry Peak
7,044 ft
Deer Mountain
6,650 ft
White Tail Peak
6,965 ft
Peak Bagging Tip
Custer Peak is only 22.1 miles away. Consider combining these peaks for a bigger day or overnight trip!