Black Elk Peak Summit Fog and Stone Tower

The stone fire tower on Black Elk Peak, South Dakota, is shrouded in fog, obscuring the surrounding Black Hills forest.
The stone fire tower on Black Elk Peak, the highest point in South Dakota, was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s as part of early forest conservation efforts in the Black Hills. Situated amidst granite spires and dense pine forests, the tower offers panoramic views that can extend into neighboring states on clear days. However, on this misty morning, low clouds obscure the surrounding landscape, creating an isolated atmosphere at the summit. The tower remains a historical landmark, symbolizing the region's commitment to land management and preservation.
Photo taken in July 2019.
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Black Elk Peak
10 photos • 2026
Custer State Park
20 photos • 2026
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