Spirit Mound Summit Trail

Spirit Mound, or Paha Wakan, was known by many tribes before Lewis and Clark expedition came to the area. These tribes told Lewis and Clark that the mound was occupied by little people who shot any human who came near. On August 15, 1804, Lewis and Clark took eleven men and their dog to explore the mound. While they didn't find any "little people", Clark reported that they did see a "most beautiful landscape; numerous herds of buffalo were seen feeding in various directions." Historians recognize the mound as one of few remaining sites where we know with certainty that Lewis and Clark actually stood.

Additional Information

Activities

Dog Walking

Walking

Hiking

Trail Running

Documents

3402_spirit-mound-trails.pdf - South Dakota Parks Trail Map

National Recreation Trail Details

Length: 0.75 Miles
Loop Trail: No
Primary Trail Type: -
Additional Trail Types: Prairie
Agency: State
Entry Fee: -
Fee Notes: -
Parking Fee: -
Permit Fee: -

Trail Use Notes:
None

Seasonal Use Notes:
None

Location: Spirit Mound Historic Prairie
County: Clay
State: SD
Townships: -

Driving Directions:
-

Average Grade: 3%
Maximum Grade: 5%
Elevation High: 1246 Feet
Elevation Low: 1176 Feet
Elevation Gain: -

Average Width: 60 Inches
Minimum Width: -
Primary Surface: Bituminous treatment
Additional Surfaces: -

Year Designated: 2004

Websites

NPS Trail Information