A trail runner suffered non-life-threatening injuries Monday afternoon after an encounter with a buffalo on the Lover’s Leap Trail in Custer State Park.
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks say the incident happened around 3:30 p.m. when the runner and the buffalo unexpectedly crossed paths. Officials say both were startled, and the animal struck the woman in the hip.
Park staff, the Custer County Search and Rescue Team, and the Custer County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene. Crews first moved the buffalo away from the area before assisting the injured runner, who was transported to a hospital for treatment.
Following the incident, Game, Fish, and Parks says it is increasing buffalo safety signage throughout the park and adding staff to monitor herds and move animals away from heavily traveled areas when necessary.
Visitors are reminded to keep a safe distance from wildlife while enjoying trails and other outdoor recreation areas in Custer State Park.
