Crooks Tower
7,113 ft | 1 trails | South Dakota
7,113 ft
1 routes
Hard
About Crooks Tower
Crooks Tower rises to 7,113 feet in South Dakota. The Crooks Tower Trail is a 12.0-mile hike with about 623 feet of elevation gain. Nearby peaks include White Tail Peak, Laird Peak and Crows Nest Peak. 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 Crooks Tower?
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 Crooks Tower 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 Crooks Tower?
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 Crooks Tower. Great for peak-bagging or planning your next adventure.
White Tail Peak
6,965 ft
Laird Peak
6,854 ft
Crows Nest Peak
7,044 ft
Flag Mountain
6,900 ft
Peak Bagging Tip
White Tail Peak is only 4.8 miles away. Consider combining these peaks for a bigger day or overnight trip!