Victoria Lake Trail
Victoria Lake Trail is a beautiful trail that is just west of Rapid City. It is fun anytime of the year and goes through a canyon which follows a stream. During the spring it can be running pretty good so prepare to get wet since you need to cross the stream several times. In the fall the trees are gorgeous. In the winter it is fun to run along the trail and play on the ice. This was a local favorite for my kids when they were small because the trail was flat, the stream was fun to play in, and the views are pretty.
To get to Victoria Lake Trail you need to take Sheridan Lake Road outside of Rapid City and follow it until you hit Victoria Lake road which is a dirt road that leads to the northwest. This is about 5 miles west of the city limits. From there take the road for several miles staying on the main road. When the road ends take the road to the left which will take you to a small lake/pond - Victoria Lake - and a small parking lot. The trail starts to the left and follows the canyon. We usually take the trail all the way till it hits a road and then head back. This is about a 2 to 3 mile out and back hike.