Primal Wall Area

SPORT

TRADITIONAL

MAP

This is the large wall downstream from Horsethief Dam. As you cross the dam, look N and you will see the wall. Directions: From the entrance of Mt Rushmore National Park, continue NW on Hwy-244 for 2.6 miles to the Horsethief Lake. Park at the Horsethief Dam parking pullouts located on the dam. Approach: (20 min/0.65 miles) Go to the far E side of the dam and locate the trail running down from the dam (S-N). Follow the trail N until you are perpendicular with the massive two-tiered formation that is the Primal Wall. At the hairpin right turn, go left (W) off the trail, descend down to the creek bed and cross it. Ascend up the gully (W) to the base of the formation. Descent: Walk off or rappel (2-bolt anchors).