Little Elk Creek Trail

Little Elk Creek Trail is a beautiful trail near Piedmont, South Dakota. The trail is 7 miles round trip, follows a creek, and takes you to Dalton Lake at the end if you choose. The trail is easy most of the way, but at times you have to climb over some rock formations. This trail is beautiful any time of the year, and a favorite for kids and pets since it is near the water. The trail splits in 2 about half way in and you can take either the high trail or the low trail. We took the high trail on the way to Dalton Lake and the low trail on the way back which worked out great. There are several side trails if you want to switch back and forth from the high to low trail at any time. Once the trail ends after 3 miles, you just follow the road for about 1/2 mile to reach Dalton Lake on Dalton Lake Rd. It is a nice place to relax, have a lunch, or just take in the pretty view of the lake before you turn around. This trail is especially beautiful in the fall.

To get to Little Elk Creek trail head take I-90 to Exit 44. At the stop light head west on Chimney Canyon Rd for a very short distance. Turn right on Sturgis Rd toward Sturgis and then left onto Little Elk Creek Rd. Follow the road till it ends (not too far). Parking is available on site.