Centennial Trail (SD) Permit: Route
Centennial Trail (SD) permits are walk-up only in Custer State Park (SD). The route covers 111 miles.
This guide covers the Centennial Trail permit.
7-10 days
Duration
111 miles
Distance
About Centennial Trail (SD)
The Centennial Trail runs through South Dakota's Black Hills across Bear Butte State Park, Black Hills National Forest, Wind Cave National Park, and Custer State Park. There is no online reservation for the trail itself; this page gives sourced trip info and a link to Custer State Park's French Creek backcountry area.
The Centennial Trail (SD) route
- Distance
- 111 miles
- Route type
- point-to-point
- Trip length
- 7-10 days
Entry points: Norbeck Trailhead, Wind Cave National Park, Bear Butte State Park
Black Hills, South Dakota
Points along the route
- Norbeck Trailhead, Wind Cave National Park (southern terminus)Mile 0, 4,426 ft
- French Creek crossing
- French Creek Natural Area (self-register backcountry camping)
- Dalton LakeMile 34.1, 4,393 ft
- Twin SistersMile 63.2, 5,235 ft
- Legion Lake, Custer State ParkMile 93.8, 5,013 ft
- Bear Butte State Park (northern terminus)Mile 123, 4,275 ft
Centennial Trail (SD) permit detailsandAll Custer State Park (SD) permits
Get Centennial Trail (SD) Alerts
Be first to know when cancellations happen.
100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for Centennial Trail (SD)?
+
Yes, a permit is required. Walk-up permits are available at the trailhead or visitor center, but arrive early as they may be limited.
How long is the Centennial Trail (SD) route?
+
The route is 111 miles, as a point-to-point. Plan on 7-10 days.
Where does the Centennial Trail (SD) route start?
+
The permit covers 2 entry points: Norbeck Trailhead, Wind Cave National Park, Bear Butte State Park.
Don't Miss Your Centennial Trail (SD) Permit
Cancellations happen every day. PermitSnag monitors Centennial Trail (SD) availability 24/7 and alerts you the moment a spot opens up.
Get Permit Alerts