Grace Coolidge Trail
Grace Coolidge Trail is a 5.8 mile out and back easy trail in Custer State Park. The trail is located right across the road from the Grace Coolidge Campground. The hike follows Grace Coolidge Creek and ends up at Center Lake/Campground. The trail is used for hiking, trail running, walking, and fishing. The trail is really pretty and there are several lakes near the trail and lots of small bridges to cross over the creek. The trail is a favorite for kids since there are so many cool places to explore and get wet. I especially enjoyed hiking this trail in the fall.
Beginning of the trail right across from Grace Coolidge Campground - first lake, or try to drive closer to the trail if road is open.
Same spot in the fall - just gorgeous.
**Once you get to the last lake around 2.9 miles, the trail kind of divides. Either trail will take you to the lake. The trail to the right goes to the dam, the trail by the last lake goes below the dam, and the trail to the left takes you to the parking lot and beach. Once at the lake you can swim, have a picnic, and watch your kids play on the playground until you head back. It really makes for a fun, full day if you stay at the lake for a bit.
Beginning of the trail - summer
Winter.
Let’s do this.
We are not alone.
One of the lakes - nice place to sit and relax.
Cool places to just sit and relax.
One of the bridge crossings.
Saw people mountain biking when we were there.
Cool photo ops.
Enjoyed this hike more in the fall.
Only place that can be hard to cross if the stream is higher.
Nice and easy trail.
Very peaceful and not very busy.
Neat small waterfall.
Trail was more interesting in the fall.
Neat rock formations.
The medallion up close.
Part of the 2021 summer challenge.
Waterfall below the dam - sometimes bigger in the spring.
Bridge below the dam.
On top of the dam.
At the end of the trail - sign going back.
Picnic area, beach, and playground at Center Lake.
Center Lake
Hiking back in the winter.
Sometimes part of the winter challenge - take a selfie to get a pin. - 2023.
