CUSTER, S.D. — Black Hills National Forest will hold its first Moon Walk of 2021 on Saturday, June 26 at 7 p.m.
The two-mile, out-and-back hike will take place along the Hell Canyon Trail, located on Highway 16 about 14 miles west of Custer.
Adam Weaver, Vice President of the National Speleological Society, and Karl Emanuel, a geologist with the Black Hills National Forest, will discuss caves and karst systems in the Black Hills – which are some of the most significant and unique found in the world.
Participants will learn about the interactions between caves, water resources, and changing geologic layers in western South Dakota, and about local cave conservation efforts.
Visitors are encouraged to bring flashlights, water, and bug repellent, and dress for cooler night-time temperatures. Long pants and sturdy footwear (hiking boots or athletic shoes) are recommended for comfort and safety while hiking on uneven terrain.
The program may be cancelled unexpectedly for unforeseen reasons, such as lightning, high fire danger, or severe weather. The program will not be cancelled due to rain unless lightning is spotted.
Visitors are asked to arrive early to provide ample time for parking, as over 100 visitors have attended the programs in past years.
