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Stratobowl Rim Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 184 Google reviews · Running trail in Rapid City, South Dakota · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Distance
- 1.7 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Stratobowl Rim Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Easy 1-, 2- mile hike affording sweeping views and a launch area for hot-air balloons.
What runners say about Stratobowl Rim Trailhead
“The payoff comes at the trail’s end, where the rim overlooks the stunning Stratobowl—a natural, bowl-shaped valley framed by 400-foot limestone cliffs.”
“This is an easy trail that is extremely well marked and “impossible” to get lost on.”
“Dog-friendly and stroller-accessible, this trail is a must-visit for anyone seeking a quick, rewarding hike with breathtaking views and a touch of history.”
The area was so green and pretty! We were lucky enough to see a deer on our hike!
This is an easy trail that is extremely well marked and “impossible” to get lost on. Mud was very minimal even though it rained the day before. This is a very family, friendly and dog friendly trail. It’s quite wide with plenty of room to pass other users.
One of the most frequented, convenient and easy trails of the Black Hills. Above a historical location of where atmospheric balloons were launched (and still do once a year). You get a spectacular view of the valley below and views to the west and Hills.
We did this hike on our first day here on vacation. It was fun, very well maintained and dog friendly. We saw quite a few deer, so keep your dog on a leash. The hike was what our family would consider easy as we have similar terrain at home but not at altitude.
Trail conditions & character
“The payoff comes at the trail’s end, where the rim overlooks the stunning Stratobowl—a natural, bowl-shaped valley framed by 400-foot limestone cliffs.”
“Other than the Steep entrance to the parking lot Rolling Hills not a lot to do once you get to the top other than that the people down below in the valley”
“Dog-friendly and stroller-accessible, this trail is a must-visit for anyone seeking a quick, rewarding hike with breathtaking views and a touch of history.”
“Other than the Steep entrance to the parking lot Rolling Hills not a lot to do once you get to the top other than that the people down below in the valley”
“) There is a gas station very close if you need to use the restroom but there is no restroom at the trailhead.”
“Dog-friendly and stroller-accessible, this trail is a must-visit for anyone seeking a quick, rewarding hike with breathtaking views and a touch of history.”
Plan your run at Stratobowl Rim Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceCrushed gravel — the rail-trail classic: softer than asphalt, still smooth enough for tempo work
- Distance1.7 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitetrailaddict.com
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Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Rapid City
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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