Bear Butte State Park - NE of Sturgis, SD
Posted by: 
YoSam.
N 44° 27.577 W 103° 25.942
13T E 624710 N 4924117
"Many Native Americans see the mountain as a place where the creator has chosen to communicate with them through visions and prayer." ~ Vacation South Dakota
Waymark Code: WMM3QJ
Location: South Dakota, United States
Date Posted: 07/16/2014
Views: 3
County of park: Meade County
Location of park: SD 79, NE of Sturgis
Park phone: 605.347.5240
Park email: BearButte@state.sd.us
"Bear Butte is considered to be a sacred mountain to many American Indians. The mountain is seen as a place where the creator has chosen to communicate with them through visions and prayer. Visitors may see colorful pieces of cloth and small bundles or pouches hanging from the trees. These prayer cloths and tobacco ties represent the prayers offered by individuals during their worship. Guests are asked to respect these offerings and leave them undisturbed. Visitors are also asked to not photograph prayer offerings. Please stay on the trail and respect those who are participating in religious activities.
"Horseback riding is allowed west of Hwy. 79 only. Riders can use the Centennial Trail west of the horse camp. The Summit Trail is too narrow to safely accommodate hikers and pets. Pets may be taken across Hwy. 79 to the horse camp area and are allowed to be exercised while on a leash.
"At Bear Butte State Park warm days and cool nights are common in the summer, but July and August are typically hot. Moderate temperatures usually prevail in the winter months with some below zero temperatures. Afternoon thunderstorms in the summer may bring lightning, hail, strong winds and heavy rains. Snow may fall as early as September and may last until mid-May.
"Please remember that bison are dangerous, so please give them plenty of space. While hiking, biking or horseback riding at Bear Butte State Park visitors should be aware of prairie rattlesnakes, ticks and poison ivy." ~ South Dakota Road Trip