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ForestMatters, LLC

Flume Trail

Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota · 5 min read

Distance
12 mi
Elevation Gain
500 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Point-To-Point
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Historic gold rush-era water flume route converted to trail, one of the most historically significant recreational paths in South Dakota
  • Pactola Reservoir and Sheridan Lake views from ridgeline sections
  • Consistently ranked as one of the best mountain bike trails in South Dakota, also open to hikers
  • Relatively flat profile for a 12-mile route (only 500 feet of gain)
  • Forest road and trail network that allows for multiple distance options

Overview

The Flume Trail is both a piece of Black Hills history and one of the best multi-use trails in South Dakota. The 12-mile route follows the graded corridor of an 1880s wooden water flume built during the Black Hills Gold Rush to transport water from Sheridan Lake to placer gold operations near Rockerville. The wooden structure disappeared over a century ago, but the engineered grade it required left a naturally flat path through terrain that would otherwise be much more rugged.

The result is a 12-mile trail that gains only 500 feet over its full length, an exceptionally gentle profile for a route that passes through the central Black Hills ridge system. This grade is why the trail has become one of the premier mountain bike routes in the region, and hikers who share the trail find it equally rewarding, with Pactola Reservoir views from ridgeline sections, ponderosa pine forest shade, and the historical context of walking a route that once moved water to fuel a gold rush.

The Route

Miles 0 to 3: Pactola Section. Starting from the Pactola Reservoir trailhead, the Flume Trail follows the historic flume grade north and east through ponderosa pine. The reservoir is visible from high points in this section, with the dam and the blue expanse of Pactola Lake providing visual anchors. The trail surface varies between packed dirt, occasional rock sections, and the smooth graded earthwork of the original flume route.

Miles 3 to 7: Ridge Section. The mid-trail section runs along the primary ridge with the best views of the surrounding terrain. This is where the elevation advantage of the historic flume route becomes most apparent: the grade is nearly flat while the terrain on both sides drops steeply. On clear days, the ridge views extend across the Black Hills to the granite peaks of the Harney Range to the south.

Miles 7 to 12: Sheridan Lake Approach. The trail descends gradually toward Sheridan Lake in the final section, with the lake visible ahead for the last few miles. The Sheridan Lake Campground and day-use area are the primary facilities at this end. The trail terminates at or near the Sheridan Lake recreational complex, where flush restrooms and water are available.

Historical Context

The Black Hills Gold Rush (1876-1880) was one of the most significant and controversial events in American Western history. Gold was discovered in the Black Hills by an expedition led by George Armstrong Custer in 1874, on land guaranteed to the Lakota people by the Fort Laramie Treaty of 1868. The resulting rush brought thousands of prospectors onto treaty land, and the federal government ultimately forced the Lakota off their sacred territory. This history is integral to the Black Hills landscape.

The water flume infrastructure built during this period was an engineering achievement for its time. Moving water by gravity over 20+ miles through steep terrain required precise surveying and carpentry. The Flume Trail preserves the memory of that infrastructure while separating it from the extractive history that drove its construction.

Mountain Bike and Hiker Coexistence

The Flume Trail's consistent grade makes it particularly popular with mountain bikers, who can complete the full 12-mile route as an efficient and scenic ride. Hikers should be aware that bikes may be moving at 10-15 mph on downhill sections. Listen for approaching cyclists (many use bells or call out), move to the right when a bike approaches from behind, and make yourself visible when rounding blind corners.

Early mornings and weekdays offer quieter conditions for hikers preferring more solitude. The trail is wide enough in most sections for comfortable passing between pedestrians and bikes.

Getting There

Pactola Reservoir Trailhead: From Rapid City, take SD-44 west approximately 18 miles to the Pactola Reservoir Recreation Area. The Flume Trailhead is signed within the recreation area. Free parking is available.

Sheridan Lake Trailhead: From Rapid City, take US-385 south approximately 12 miles to the Sheridan Lake Campground entrance. The trail connects to the campground road network. Free parking is available at the trailhead.

Car Shuttle: For the full point-to-point, leave one vehicle at Sheridan Lake and drive to the Pactola start. From Sheridan Lake to Pactola by road is approximately 15 miles via SD-44.

What to Bring

Water: the relatively flat profile can be deceptive in summer heat. Many hikers carry 2 to 3 liters for the full 12-mile route; individual needs vary significantly with temperature and pace. Small streams cross the trail in spring and early summer and can supplement water if treated.

Binoculars are worthwhile for the reservoir and ridge views. A downloaded offline map is useful for identifying trailhead access points within the forest road network.

For overnight camping near the Flume Trail corridor, see how to get a national forest camping permit. For trail etiquette and Leave No Trace practices relevant to multi-use trails, see Leave No Trace principles. Before any Black Hills visit, check checking conditions before you go for current trail and campground information.

Trailhead Parking

Multiple access points near Pactola Reservoir and Sheridan Lake. Free parking. Trailheads clearly signed from forest roads.

← Back to Black Hills National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of the Flume Trail?
The Flume Trail follows the route of a wooden water flume built in the 1880s during the Black Hills Gold Rush. The flume transported water from Sheridan Lake to the gold placer mines near Rockerville, running for over 20 miles through the forest. The wooden flume structure is long gone, but the graded route it followed through the terrain remains, providing the relatively flat corridor that makes this an exceptional trail.
Is the Flume Trail shared between hikers and mountain bikers?
Yes. The Flume Trail is a multi-use trail open to both hikers and mountain bikes. It is one of the most popular mountain bike destinations in the Black Hills, with its consistent grade and ridgeline views making it attractive for extended rides. Hikers should expect to yield to bikes on the trail and listen for approaching cyclists. Early morning and weekday visits offer quieter conditions.
Can I do just part of the Flume Trail?
Yes. The Flume Trail can be accessed from multiple points, and the relatively flat profile makes partial sections accessible as out-and-back hikes. A 4-mile out-and-back from the Pactola Reservoir trailhead is a good introduction to the route. The full 12-mile point-to-point typically requires a car shuttle between the Sheridan Lake and Pactola end trailheads.