The Osprey TRACK Trail is an easy 2.2-mile trail featuring two loops and a spur out to a beautiful overlook of Pactola Lake.
Along the way, you will trek through the meadows and pine forests that create the banks of the lake.
In spring and summer, wildflowers turn the meadows into a coloful natural painting. Be sure to look up, though. Abundant lake views will offer the chance to see soaring and swooping birds of prey. The lake is a favorite hunting groud for ospreys and bald eagles.
Have fun as you travel the trail, exploring the Black Hills, and discovering its wonders.
Location Details
Adventures for Black Hills National Forest - Osprey Trail Pactola Lake
Birds of the Black Hills
Difficulty:
Nature's Hide & Seek
Difficulty:
Tracks & Traces
Difficulty:
Bug Out
Difficulty:Directions
Longitude: -103.502709000000
From Rapid City, travel about 15 miles west on Highway 44. Turn south (left) onto Highway 385 and continue for 2.7 miles. Just after the Pactola Visitor’s Center turn west (right) onto Custer Gulch Road. Wind along the lake, past the beach for 1.4 miles before you turn north (right) following the signs to Pactola Campground. Go all the way through to the end of the campground facility past the fee booth to the trailhead.
Partners
This TRACK Trail made possible through a collaboration with the Black Hills National Forest.