Sylvan Lake South Dakota
Sylvan Lake, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is an idyllic mountain lake that offers a breathtaking experience to anyone who visits. Nestled within the rolling hills of this region, the lake is surrounded by towering ponderosa pines and towering granite peaks that reach nearly 7,000 feet above sea level.
The lake itself is incredibly serene and peaceful. Its crystal blue water sparkles in the sunlight and reflects off the surrounding forest creating a stunning image. Wildlife abounds around Sylvan Lake, including bald eagles, beavers, deer, mountain goats, marmots, and more. Visitors often spot these animals along the Sylvan Lake Trail.
In addition to being a great fishing destination, Sylvan Lake kayak rentals are available from the new general store. This store offers a wide range of products, including groceries, camping gear, and souvenirs. The store is a great place to stock up on supplies before heading out for a day of hiking or fishing. You can also rent canoes, kayaks and paddleboards at Sylvan Lake boat launch. For those looking for more strenuous activities, there are plenty of rugged trails suitable for mountain biking or horseback riding.
The lake is home to various fish species, including trout, bass, and walleye. Fishing is a popular activity here, and many visitors come to the lake to try their luck at catching a big one. The lake is also popular with swimmers, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches.
Swimming at Sylvan Lake is very popular during the summer months. In addition to these activities, there are numerous picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal while enjoying the stunning views.
Hiking and biking are popular pastimes here, and the surrounding hills provide plenty of opportunities for exploration. Visitors can also go horseback riding or take a scenic drive through the Black Hills. Always be sure to check the weather of the Black Hills before setting out on a hike!
Sylvan Lake Photos
Winter at Sylvan Lake
Wintertime here is outstanding! It’s one of my favorite times to visit. Very few visitors are present during the winter, except ice fishermen.
The ice at Sylvan Lake reaches 18 inches in thickness, making it safe for walking. Wear grippy shoes and have a wonderful time!
The surrounding area also has plenty to offer visitors as well. Sylvan Lake Lodge is nearby and provides cozy accommodations and access to nearby attractions such as the Needles Highway, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Mount Rushmore.
Sylvan Lake Lodge Restaurant also provides great meals with beautiful views. The restaurant serves delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients like wild berries and trout caught right from Sylvan Lake’s waters.
Improvements have been made to the General Store, accessibility to local trails, and eventually to the parking lot.
Nearby, there is Sylvan Lake Campground for a more primitive experience. From summertime swimming and boating to wintertime snowshoeing and skiing – there’s truly something here for everyone!
So whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or an adventure-filled getaway with your family – you won’t be disappointed when visiting the majestic Sylvan Lake of South Dakota!
Sylvan Lake Activities
- Sylvan Lake Hiking – This is the center of many hiking trails. From the parking lot you can reach Black Elk Peak, Little Devils Tower, Sunday Gulch, the Cathedral Spires and more.
- Fishing – Sylvan Lake has an abundance of Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout
- Kayak Rentals – Book a kayak or canoe reservation on Sylvan Lake.
- Hiking – Hiking Trails range from mild to wild. Download and print the Custer State Park Trail Guide
- Picnics – There are quite a few picnic tables scattered about. Come early and enjoy the scenery.
- Photography – This is one of the most photographed lakes in the Black Hills. Bring your camera!
7 Fun Facts About Sylvan Lake
- The lake is manmade. On the far end of the lake, there is a dam built in 1891. The trail around the lake takes you right behind it.
- It is 30 feet deep, with an average depth of 17 feet.
- Rock climbing is one of the most popular activities here. Keep your eyes out for climbers.
- The first Sylvan Lake Lodge was built on the far side of the lake. It burned down on June 30, 1935.
- Frank Lloyd Wright was set to build a new lodge, but his delays forced the board to choose a new architect.
- The Dam has a giant spigot at the bottom, which used to provide water for hydraulic mining operations.
- The begging’ burros in Custer State Park are the decedents of burros used to take visitors to Black Elk Peak
More Lakes of the Black Hills
The Black Hills region of South Dakota is home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the United States. From rugged mountains to deep valleys, the area is full of stunning landscapes that draw visitors worldwide. One of the most striking features of the Black Hills is its lakes and streams. In this article, we’ll explore some of the region’s most notable bodies of water.
Sheridan Lake
Sheridan Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping in the heart of the Black Hills. The lake covers over 375 acres and is home to various fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and perch. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and a swimming beach.
Deerfield Lake
Deerfield Lake is another popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities, with rainbow trout, brown trout, and lake trout all present. The area around the lake is also great for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
Lake Pactola
Lake Pactola is the largest reservoir in the Black Hills, covering over 800 acres. The lake is a popular boating, fishing, and water sports destination. Visitors can enjoy sandy beaches, picnic areas, and hiking trails.
Lakota Lake
Lakota Lake is a smaller lake located in Custer State Park. The lake is popular for fishing, with rainbow and brown trout present in high numbers. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails and scenic drives in the area
Stockade Lake
Stockade Lake is located in the heart of Custer State Park and is known for its scenic beauty. The lake is popular for fishing, with rainbow and brown trout present. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and swimming beaches.
Horse Thief Lake
Horse Thief Lake is a small but beautiful lake located near Mount Rushmore. The lake is popular for fishing, with rainbow and brown trout present. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and horseback riding trails in the area.
Center Lake
Center Lake is located in the heart of Custer State Park and is known for its peaceful atmosphere. The lake is popular for fishing, with rainbow and brown trout present. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails and picnic areas.
Legion Lake
Legion Lake is a scenic lake located in Custer State Park. The lake is popular for fishing, with rainbow and brown trout present. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and swimming beaches.
Directions to Sylvan Lake
Rapid City to Sylvan Lake – 50 min
Keystone to Sylvan Lake– 34 min
Hill City to Sylvan Lake – 18 min
Custer to Sylvan Lake – 14 min
Deadwood to Sylvan Lake – 1 hr 26 min