Dalton Lake Motorized Trailhead

About Dalton Lake Motorized Trailhead

Dalton Lake Motorized Trailhead is a Centennial Trail access point in the Black Hills National Forest, reached from Sturgis by way of Vanocker Canyon Road. It serves both motorized and non motorized users, and it marks the northern boundary of OHV access on this stretch of the Centennial Trail. Dalton Lake and its campground sit just west of the trailhead, which makes this one of the easier Black Hills riding areas to base a weekend around.

The Northern Edge of OHV Access

The direction you travel from this trailhead determines what you can ride, so read this before unloading.

North of Dalton Lake Trailhead, the Centennial Trail is non motorized only. From there it runs 12.8 miles north to the Elk Creek Trailhead through ponderosa pine forest, across small seasonal streams and up to vistas along the way.

South of the trailhead, the Centennial Trail is open to both non motorized use and OHV use. Heading that way the trail climbs quickly, opening views over the surrounding forest valleys, then runs roughly 6.1 miles to South Boxelder Trailhead, spending much of that distance weaving along the rim rocks above Vanocker Canyon.

That southern stretch is the reason riders come here. Rim rock riding with canyon views is not what most people expect from the Great Plains, and it links directly into the wider Nemo area network, with South Boxelder connecting on to Pilot Knob and Piedmont.

The 62 inch width limit applies on the OHV sections between Dalton Lake and Pilot Knob, so check your machine before loading it.

Permits and the Official Map

A valid Motorized Trail Permit is required to ride the designated OHV system trails in the Black Hills. The forest carries more than 3,800 miles of roads and trails open to motorized vehicles, with over 700 miles of system trails designated specifically for OHVs.

The Motor Vehicle Use Map is the only official source for what is open to public motorized travel, and the Forest Service is explicit that no other map should be used for those decisions. It is free from Forest Service offices, local vendors and online.

Facilities and Camping

There is no drinking water at the trailhead. Toilets are available at Dalton Lake Campground, which you pass on the way in.

The campground makes this trailhead unusually convenient. Camp at the lake, ride the Centennial Trail south in the morning, and you never have to haul far. Note that a 14 day limit on camping and occupancy applies across the Black Hills National Forest.

Fire restrictions change through the season and have reached Stage 2 in recent summers, so check the forest alerts page before any trip involving a campfire.

Getting There

From Sturgis, take Interstate 90 exit 32 and turn south on Junction Avenue, which becomes Vanocker Canyon Road and Meade County Highway 3C after half a mile. Continue south for 12.7 miles to Dalton Lake Road, then turn east for 4.1 miles, passing Dalton Lake and its campground. The trailhead is on the north side of the road.

Follow the signs at the trailhead for either motorized or non motorized use, since the two routes split there.

The Black Hills National Forest supervisor’s office is at 1019 North 5th Street in Custer and can be reached at 605-673-9200.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride an OHV in both directions from Dalton Lake?

No. The Centennial Trail is non motorized north of the trailhead. OHV use is permitted only heading south.

How far is it to South Boxelder?

About 6.1 miles south along the Centennial Trail, much of it along rim rocks above Vanocker Canyon.

How wide can my machine be?

The 62 inch width limit applies on the OHV sections between Dalton Lake and Pilot Knob.

Do I need a permit?

Yes. A valid Motorized Trail Permit is required for designated OHV system trails in the Black Hills National Forest.

Is there camping nearby?

Yes. Dalton Lake Campground is just west of the trailhead and has toilets. A 14 day camping limit applies across the forest.

Is there water at the trailhead?

No. There is no potable water at the trailhead. Bring your own.

What else can I do there?

The trailhead also supports hiking, backpacking, horseback riding and mountain biking alongside OHV riding.

Where is Dalton Lake Motorized Trailhead located?

Off Dalton Lake Road in the Black Hills National Forest, reached from Sturgis via I-90 exit 32 and Vanocker Canyon Road.

More information on Dalton Lake Motorized Trailhead; Click here https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/blackhills/recreation/dalton-lake-trailhead

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