Custer State Park Restores Trails After Windstorm
Park crews continue cleanup from December 2025 storm damage as Custer State Park is selected for a 2026 Hearts of STIHL grant.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in National Parks
Custer State Park was selected for a 2026 Hearts of STIHL grant as crews continue restoring trails damaged by a December 2025 windstorm. All park trails were reported open and cleared of winter storm damage by May 1.
Why it matters
The windstorm downed trees across visitor areas, and the grant is intended to support continued trail restoration and care for areas South Dakota visitors use. The recovery effort reflects coordination among multiple state agencies.
Hearts of STIHL awards total $80,000 across six national regions, with one state park selected per region. Department of Corrections crews began removing fallen trees on Dec. 20, 2025, and a second crew joined on Dec. 22, 2025, while the source does not quantify the total storm damage.
The players
Custer State Park
A South Dakota state park in the Black Hills known for its wildlife loop, scenic drives and trail system.
STIHL Inc.
The U.S. subsidiary of German power-tool manufacturer STIHL, which funds the Hearts of STIHL program.
America's State Parks Foundation
A nonprofit organization that administers the Hearts of STIHL grant program for state parks nationwide.
The details
A December 2025 windstorm brought down trees across Custer State Park, affecting Sylvan Lake and Wildlife Loop Road. Crews from the South Dakota Department of Corrections' Rapid City Minimum Center, joined by South Dakota Department of Transportation crews, helped clear the fallen timber.
Timeline
December 2025: Windstorm brings down trees across the park.
Dec. 20, 2025: Department of Corrections cleanup crew begins removing fallen trees.
Dec. 22, 2025: A second Department of Corrections crew joins the cleanup.
May 1, 2026: All park trails are reported open and cleared of storm damage.
2026: Custer State Park is selected for a Hearts of STIHL grant.
Seasonal Patterns
Custer State Park's recovery follows a December windstorm, and the Hearts of STIHL program awards one state park in each of six national regions, extending a funding pattern administered by America's State Parks Foundation. The grant supports trail restoration in a park whose trails were reported fully cleared by May 1.
Visitors planning trips to Custer State Park can expect trails to be open as of May 1 following storm cleanup. Those heading to Sylvan Lake or Wildlife Loop Road should check current park conditions before departing.
The takeaway
Storm recovery in state parks often depends on coordinated work between park staff, state corrections crews and transportation agencies. Travelers can check trail status with park staff before planning outdoor visits after severe weather.
Further reading
For more on the state's protected landscapes, explore National Parks coverage across South Dakota.
