Black Hills Hiking Vow Renewal | Harney Peak • Xsperience Photography

10 years of marriage deserves a celebration, and better yet, an adventure! One that requires sweat, effort, encouragement and a beautiful journey shared together. The destination sought out is a beautiful one, but the accomplishments and memories made before, during and after is truly what matters most. That is how one might describe marriage. And that is how I describe this Black Hills hiking Vow Renewal to Harney Peak aka Black Elk Peak. (Does anyone know why they changed the name?? I’ve been going there for 30 years so it will always be Harney Peak in my mind)

We started off at The Palmer Gulch KOA campground in Hill City before heading to Sylvan Lake where the Harney Peak/Black Elk Peak trailhead begins. We trekked uphill for a couple hours taking in the Black Hills scenery filled with tall pines and peaked gray rocks. When we were at our point of exhaustion, we looked up and saw the lookout tower… on the other end of the many many stairs still left to climb. But we did it!! Erika and Peter used the lookout as a changing room, then found their cabin down below before exploring the peak. I ignored my shaking legs and captured their effortless love in the most amazing place!!

If you’re considering a Black Hills Elopement or an intimate Destination Wedding this adventure is for you! Sylvan Lake would also make for a stunning backdrop to your vows or a sunset picnic after refreshing from your fun hike.

Planning: ELOPEWEST | Photo + Video: XSPERIENCE PHOTOGRAPHY | Happily married couple: Erika and Peter Hansen, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota | Lodging: PALMER GULCH KOA CAMPGROUND, Hill City, South Dakota