For runners who would prefer a little trail running close to the Rapid City center, the Skyline Area Wilderness Park is a superb choice. This 150 acre park features some 12 miles of earthen trails. From the trailhead on Skyline Drive there is a large network of paths branching in every direction. Some routes are more challenging than others, but almost all trails feature some climbing up the “hogback” of Rapid City. The Skyline Trail is one of the most popular routes, clocking in at about 2 miles out and back and featuring some spectacular scenic vistas.
Features:
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Essentials
- 4 mile (6.4 km) out and back, or other choices
- 278 feet
- Skyline Drive
- Skyline Drive
Current Weather & Forecast
Rapid City, US
1:15 pm,
Jun 3, 2026
scattered clouds
22°C
L: 21°
H: 22°
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Other Routes in Rapid City/Black Hills, SD
The “Swanny” Trail is a paved multi-use path which follows the Rapid Creek through Rapid City. Nearly the entire 8-mile trail forms a sort of linear park extending from downtown. Good loop options incorporating the major downtown parks.
15 miles southwest of Rapid City, the Storm Mountain trail system offers something for everyone. The double track forest roads are the most accessible choices for running.
A large dog and sporting park in the southeast part of Rapid City. The park features a playground, sporting fields, a BMX park, and a ~2 mile concrete loop trail.
Wherever you go in the Black Hills, the Mickelson Trail is never far off. Hop on any section of this 108 mile rail trail for a fun out and back. The trail is mostly gravel but it's an easy, wide surface The trail map has excellent details on trail segments and distances.
There are many trails to choose from in Custer State Park, but the easygoing trails around Sylvan Lake and the first couple of miles of the path toward Black Elk Peak are some of the best options for running.
It’s a short novelty run, but the 1 mile “Presidential Trail” around Mount Rushmore offers great views of woodland scenery and the famous carvings.
This Black Hills tourist attraction features a wide gravel road leading to the carving of a Lakota leader. Approximately 5 km out and back.
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