2021 Map of Dead Horse Flats

About this map

Black Hills National Forest encompasses this high-elevation landscape of the southern Black Hills, where a network of forest roads and springs defines the remote character of the Custer County and Pennington County border. The topography is dominated by dramatic ridges and deep draws, including Gillette Canyon and the prominent Antelope Ridge to the east. Historically critical water sources like Dead Horse Spring, Gooseberry Spring, and The Seeps are scattered throughout the draws, supporting the grazing and transit patterns indicated by named areas such as Dead Horse Flats and Five Loads Flat. Prominent landmarks like Yellow Butte and Surveyors Hill provide orientation across the complex drainage systems of Wolf Draw and Gettys Canyon. The presence of numerous named forest service roads, such as Custer Limestone Rd and Red Bird Canyon Rd, highlights the area's continued use for resource management and backcountry access.