About
Length (round trip)7.4 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain500 ft up
Typical time2 hr
TrailheadHighway 385, near the visitor center
SurfaceOpen rolling prairie with no shade
Best seasonThe cave is 54F year round. Surface trails are best May to October; prairie wildflowers peak in June and the bison rut is in August.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🌼 Wildflowers🦌 Wildlife

East Bison Flats is a 3.7 mi (5.9 km) one-way, moderately strenuous hiking trail. Begin this trail on US Highway 385, right near the south entrance of the park at Gobbler Pass. After a short climb, hikers will be rewarded with the rolling hills of the prairie. Panoramic views of the prairie, Buffalo Gap and the Black Hills await. This trail can also be accessed by hiking one-half mile down the Wind Cave Canyon Trail to reach the East Bison Flats Trail. Trail Safety Hiking off trail is permitted. Watch out for wildlife. Bison and other wildlife are dangerous and unpredictable. Do not approach. Carry and drink plenty of water. There is no drinking water on this trail. Check the weather forecast before you hike. Bring extra layers.

Tips
No shade and no water anywhere. The long views south to Buffalo Gap are the reward. Bison encounters are likely - plan your detour before you need it.
Location

Highway 385, near the visitor center

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.