Here are 6 short hikes that are right off the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Highway in Spearfish Canyon that you can do all in one day. The hikes are all under 2 1/2 miles, but they vary in difficulty.
We did these hikes in the fall when the colors were changing, but they could be done at anytime. I’ll list them as from north to south, so you can check them off as you drive through the canyon. All the trails are out and back trails and the distances listed are one way. You will need to double the distance for the total length.
Community Caves
Although this trail is only .3 miles long, there is a steep 230 ft climb/scramble up a hopefully dry creek bed that leads to a wide cave that offers some nice views of the canyon. During the winter there is a lot of ice buildup on the trail, and during the spring there can be a lot of water you have to walk through. There is pull out parking lot along the road that can be busy during the summer. This trail is hard and a good one to start with.
11th Hour Gulch
Another short but tricky hike. This one is only .2 miles long but it does require some tricky rock scrambling. There are several ladders and some ropes for assistance. It can be quite slippery and dangerous at times, especially in the winter or if there is a lot of water. There is a small pull out on the road that can park around 4 to 5 cars.
Iron Creek Trail
Iron Creek Trail is a gorgeous trail that is around 1 1/2 miles one way. The trail follows Iron Creek and is surrounded by tall cliffs and trees the whole way. This trail is an absolute must in the Fall if in the area. There is a small pull out parking lot near the beginning of the trail that can fit several cars.
Spearfish Falls
This is a .35 mile trail that is a must see during you journey through the Spearfish Canyon. The trail is well maintained, but there is a short section that is a little steep. There is parking at the Latchstring Restaurant for this hike.
Roughlock Falls
Another must see in the canyon is Roughlock falls. You can get close to the falls by driving there, but if you want a nice easy 1 mile scenic hike you can do that as well. There is parking up by the falls and at the Spearfish Lodge and trail parking lot.
The 76 Trail
The 76 trail is only 2/3 of a mile long but it starts out steep and then gets steeper. There is over 1000 feet of elevation gain in that 2/3 of a mile, but you are rewarded with some birds eye views of the canyon from Buzzards roost. There is parking at the Spearfish Lodge.
These are only 6 of several hikes in Spearfish Canyon. There are a whole lot more. Another popular hike is Devil’s Bathtub, but you may want to do that another day since people usually spend more time there.
When doing the hikes mentioned above I recommend doing Community Caves, 11th Hour Gulch, and Iron Creek Trail. Then have a picnic at one of the picnic spots near Spearfish Lodge or eat at the Latchstring Restaurant. When done finish the other 3 - Spearfish Falls, Roughlock Falls, and the 76th Trail. You will be tired by the end of the day, but go to bed knowing that you saw some of the prettiest trails in the gorgeous Black Hills of South Dakota.
If you are more adventurous, pretty active, and short on time in the hills, try to get Devil’s Bathtub in the mix. This trail is usually very busy in the summer though so keep that in mind. It will usually add another hour or so to your day depending on how long you stay.
For more information visit our page blackhillshikingbikingandmore.com and go to Regional Adventures/Spearfish Canyon Area to see all the wonderful things you can do while in the area.