A trail runner suffered non-life-threatening injuries Monday afternoon after being struck by a buffalo on the Lover’s Leap Trail in Custer State Park.
According to South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, the incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. when the runner and a buffalo unexpectedly encountered one another on the trail. Officials said both were startled, and the animal struck the woman in the hip.
Emergency responders from Game, Fish and Parks, the Custer County Search and Rescue team, and the Custer County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the scene. Crews first moved the buffalo away from the area before assisting the injured runner.
The woman was later transported to a hospital for treatment. Authorities said her injuries were not considered life-threatening.
In response to the incident, park officials are taking additional steps to promote visitor safety. Game, Fish and Parks said it is increasing buffalo safety signage throughout the park and adding staff to monitor herd activity. Personnel will also work to move buffalo away from heavily used areas when necessary.
Officials reminded visitors that wildlife can be unpredictable and urged hikers, runners, and other park users to maintain a safe distance from animals at all times.
Custer State Park is home to approximately 1,400 free-roaming buffalo, one of the park’s most popular attractions. Park managers encourage visitors to remain alert while recreating outdoors and to respect wildlife by giving animals plenty of space.
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