Celebrate Our Trail Community - Logan S.
Logan S. has been living in the Black Hills area for 11 years and works as a hotel manager. His love for the outdoors took root during his time in the Grand Tetons, where he discovered a passion for hiking that continues to shape his adventures today. Whether tackling a rugged summit for a challenging workout or enjoying a leisurely hike or bike ride with his family of four, Logan embraces opportunites to explore. He maintains a positive attitude—even when plans don’t go as expected. Logan shares his favorite Black Hills trails and advice for hiking the area.
About Me
Name: Logan S.
Age: 44
Current City: Rapid City
Occupation: Hotel Manager
How long I’ve lived in the hills: 11 years
Where I grew up: Houston, TX
My family: My wife of 12 years and I have two kids, a 10-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy the trails?
We love hiking the Black Hills, and biking the Mickelson Trail whenever we get a chance.
How did you first fall in love with exploring the outdoors?
I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors, but my passion really started developing when I moved to Grand Teton National Park to work in the hotels there. I was able to spend every day off in the mountains and lakes of the park and never looked back.
What’s your favorite Black Hills trail and why?
I really love Iron Creek trail near Lakota Lake. There are so many fun water crossings, rock formations, and amazing views.
What’s your most memorable moment on a Black Hills trail?
I was hiking from Horsethief Lake to Black Elk Peak and saw that my water was only half full and I was only a third of the way down the trail. I had forgotten to pack my water filter, so I decided to turn back around rather than become a search and rescue case. On my way back down, I found a whole hillside of fresh wild raspberries and decided to collect some to make the best of a disappointing situation. It was a great reminder that there are amazing things to find in nature, even if your hike didn’t go as planned.
What kind of trail day makes you happiest?
If I’m hiking without the kids, I really enjoy a challenging, fast-paced summit to really get in a good workout. If we are hiking as a family, a nice scenic hike with lakes or waterfalls is always a win!
What’s your favorite time of year to explore the Hills and why?
I really enjoy the fall. Crowds are a little less, the days are nice and cool, and with a warm enough sleeping bag the nights are just the best. Add the colors changing and it’s an unbeatable time of year.
Who’s your favorite trail companion?
While I do enjoy a solo hike to clear my head, there is nothing better than completing a hike with my family and seeing the kids really enjoy being out in nature without an iPad.
What’s one piece of gear you never hit the trail without?
A water filter! I have a pump, but prefer the inline type that you can put on a water bladder to make refilling your water as easy as filling the water bladder from a lake or stream.
What piece of gear do you always carry but rarely use?
A trowel for digging catholes in the backcountry. You don’t use it often, but when you need it, you need it!
Are you a heavy packer or a minimalist?
Minimalist. It wasn’t until I got married that I owned a tent with a floor.
Which trail would you recommend for beginners?
Spring Creek trail is a lot of fun, plenty of stream crossings and you end up across from Dakota Point on Sheridan Lake and you can watch people jump while you have a picnic.
Which trail would you recommend for someone who wants a challenge?
Black Elk Peak is an amazing hike with a variety of ways to get up there. As the highest mountain east of the Rockies, the views are unbeatable.
What’s one helpful tip you’d share with someone exploring the Black Hills for the first time?
Take your time to enjoy your surroundings, bring water, and get out there!
What’s your go-to post-trail treat or meal?
Depends on where we are, but Lost Cabin’s Hill City Beer Garden and Purple Pie Place in Custer are always on my list.
What’s the most random thing you’ve ever found in your pack?
Somehow stuffed animals keep making their way in there.
If you could only hike or bike one trail in the Black Hills for the rest of your life, which trail would you choose and why?
Horsethief Lake to Black Elk Peak. The Black Elk Wilderness is such a magical and powerful place. The minerals make the rocks sparkle like a jewelry store and the views are just stunning.
If you could have any superpower on the trail, what would it be?
The ability to skip the last mile or two of a hike. No matter the distance, those last few miles are always tough.
If you could name a trail after yourself, what would it be called?
Type 2 fun
Which Black Hills animal do you most relate to on the trail?
I’d say bison. They are generally pretty chill (but don’t get too close), but can really get going when they want to.
If trails could talk, which one would have the best stories?
I’d imagine the Centennial Trail has some great stories. Between the diverse terrain, long distances, and ups and downs, I bet it’s got some great ones.
What’s your favorite nature/outdoor quote or saying?
“It always feels worse than it is. Just keep going. The second you get home, your brain will turn all that into fun.” – Random Redditor
If you could go on a trail adventure with any celebrity or historical figure, who would you choose and why?
Hands down, Carl Sagan. What could be better than stargazing in the backcountry with him? He had the perfect mix of knowledge and wonder.
What’s your dream trail or outdoor adventure destination outside the Black Hills?
When we visited Banff and Jasper National Parks in Canada, the drives and hikes were amazing, but I’d really love to go back and get into the backcountry more.
Quick-Fire Round:
Waterfalls or summits? Waterfalls
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise
Wildflowers or wildlife? Wildflowers
Smooth trails or rugged terrain? Rugged
Solo or group adventures? Solo
Plan it or wing it? Plan it (and leave the plan with someone responsible)
Boots or tennis shoes? Boots
Track miles or just explore? Track it all
Sweet or savory trail snacks? Both in the trail mix
Coffee stop before or beer after? Yes
Nominate Someone From Our Trail Community
Do you know someone who loves spending time on local trails? We’d love to celebrate them! Nominate a friend, family member, or fellow trail-goer who enjoys hiking, biking, riding, or simply being outside. Send an email to: info@trailaddict.com
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