- Waterproof - Tear-Resistant - Topographic MapConsidered a sacred region by many Native American peoples of the Northern Great Plains, the Black Hills' dark green ponderosa pine-forest rises quickly above the adjacent prairie. Appropriately described as an "Island in the Plains," the name "Black Hills" originates from the Lakota words Paha Sapa, which translate to "hills that are black". Outstanding scenery and a mild climate combine to provide an unforgettable outdoor experience year-round.From the lower elevations surrounding the Black Hills, to the highest point in South Dakota, the Black Hills National Park Day Hikes Topographic Map Guide includes a hike for everyone to explore, from the easy Canyons Loop to the strenuous Black Elk Peak trail. The 16 featured hikes are spread across a variety of state and federal public lands including Wind Cave National Park, Custer State Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, Black Hills National Forest, and Bear Butte State Park--and range in difficulty and distance to help hikers select the best trail for their timing, abilities, and location within the Black Hills. Also included with each featured hike are trail descriptions, directions to trailheads, an elevation profile, total elevation gain, and trail mileages. Two long distance trails--the George S. Mickelson Trail and the Centennial Trail--are also featured, which can be divided numerous ways into perfect, self-designed day hikes.More convenient and easier to use than folded maps, but just as compact and lightweight, National Geographic's Topographic Map Guide booklets are printed on "Backcountry Tough" waterproof, tear-resistant paper with stainless steel staples. A full UTM grid is printed on the map to aid with GPS navigation.Map Scale = 1:50,000Folded Size = 4.25" x 9.38"
