Spearfish Canyon Drive Black Hills
A breathtaking 22-mile scenic drive through towering limestone cliffs, past stunning waterfalls, and lush forests in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant autumn colors
Spearfish Canyon Drive Black Hills
Best Time
Vibrant autumn colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 22-mile scenic drive through towering limestone cliffs, past stunning waterfalls, and lush forests in South Dakota's Black Hills.
"A canyon straight out of a fairytale? Yep. And it’s carved through ancient limestone cliffs, dripping with waterfalls and lush pine forests."
🚗 Start at Spearfish City Park
Begin your scenic drive here for easy access to Hwy 14A and stunning canyon views.
👟 Wear sturdy shoes for hikes
Trails like Devil's Bathtub can be slippery; good footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway
Highway 14A
A breathtaking 22-mile drive through towering limestone cliffs, lush forests, and past stunning waterfalls.
Bridal Veil Falls
Along Highway 14A
An iconic roadside waterfall cascading down a sheer rock face, easily accessible for photos.
Devil's Bathtub Trail
Near Spearfish
A moderate 1.6-mile hike featuring creek crossings and a unique natural waterslide at the end.
Roughlock Falls
Near Spearfish Canyon Lodge
A picturesque waterfall offering beautiful views and a tranquil atmosphere, a must-see stop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Scenic Drive
Essential Gear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Start at Spearfish City Park
Begin your scenic drive here for easy access to Hwy 14A and stunning canyon views.
👟 Wear sturdy shoes for hikes
Trails like Devil's Bathtub can be slippery; good footwear is essential.
💧 Bring water and snacks
Especially important for longer hikes to stay hydrated and energized.
📸 Capture waterfall magic
Don't miss Bridal Veil, Spearfish, and Roughlock Falls – easily accessible photo ops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Start at Spearfish City Park
Begin your scenic drive here for easy access to Hwy 14A and stunning canyon views.
👟 Wear sturdy shoes for hikes
Trails like Devil's Bathtub can be slippery; good footwear is essential.
💧 Bring water and snacks
Especially important for longer hikes to stay hydrated and energized.
📸 Capture waterfall magic
Don't miss Bridal Veil, Spearfish, and Roughlock Falls – easily accessible photo ops.
🦌 Watch for wildlife
Keep an eye out for deer and other animals along the drive and trails.
🗺️ Download offline maps
Cell service can be spotty in the canyon, so have maps ready.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Spearfish Canyon for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the dramatic cliffs and numerous waterfalls. The scenic drive is a major highlight, offering breathtaking views at every turn. While generally well-received, some visitors note that it can get crowded during peak seasons, and certain trails can be challenging or slippery.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is primarily accessed via Highway 14A, starting near Spearfish City Park and winding through the canyon for about 22 miles. It's a popular route for those driving I-90 through western South Dakota.
Yes, Spearfish Canyon is easily accessible from I-90. You can take exit 17 or 12 to reach Spearfish and then connect to Highway 14A to begin the scenic drive.
The most popular way is to drive the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 14A). You can also stop for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing along the route.
Yes, Spearfish Canyon is accessible year-round. However, winter conditions can make driving challenging, and some trails may be inaccessible. Fall offers stunning foliage, while summer provides lush greenery.
The drive itself is about 22 miles and can take 30-60 minutes without stops. However, to truly enjoy the waterfalls and viewpoints, plan for at least 2-3 hours, or a full day if you plan to hike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to drive or hike within Spearfish Canyon. The scenic byway and its natural attractions are free to access.
Spearfish Canyon is a natural area and is open 24/7. However, visitor centers or specific facilities within or near the canyon may have limited hours.
No advance booking is required for Spearfish Canyon as it's a public scenic drive and natural area. You can visit anytime.
Generally, there are no parking fees at the main viewpoints and trailheads within Spearfish Canyon. However, always check for any posted signs.
Mornings are often best for fewer crowds and softer light for photography. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular waterfalls include Bridal Veil Falls, Spearfish Falls, and Roughlock Falls. All are easily accessible from the scenic drive.
Devil's Bathtub Trail is a popular moderate hike known for its unique natural waterslide. Eleventh Hour Gulch offers a more slot canyon-like experience.
While you can get your feet wet at some creek crossings, swimming is generally not recommended due to cold water temperatures and currents. Devil's Bathtub offers a natural waterslide experience.
Yes, it's common to see deer, elk, and various bird species in Spearfish Canyon. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times for sightings.
You can enjoy hiking, photography, picnicking, flyfishing (especially near the Spearfish Canyon Lodge), and simply taking in the stunning natural beauty. 
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The waterfalls (Bridal Veil, Spearfish, Roughlock), the towering canyon walls, and the winding road itself offer incredible photo opportunities. Fall foliage also provides a stunning backdrop.
Early morning offers soft, diffused light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the waterfalls and landscapes. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be beautiful.
Pull-offs near Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls are excellent. The entire scenic byway provides numerous opportunities to pull over and capture the grandeur.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast canyon landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with long exposures of waterfalls.
Drone usage is subject to regulations within national forests and parks. Always check current FAA and local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The accessible waterfalls, such as Bridal Veil Falls, are easy for kids to marvel at. For a bit more adventure, the Devil's Bathtub Trail offers a fun, albeit potentially wet, experience with its natural waterslide, but ensure children are supervised closely due to slippery rocks. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated areas. The D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery near the canyon entrance is also a great educational stop for children.
Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and dress kids in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. The relatively short driving distances between points of interest make it manageable for younger attention spans.🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
It's easily incorporated into a larger Black Hills itinerary, connecting well with I-90 and other attractions like Deadwood. Key stops include Bridal Veil Falls, Spearfish Falls, and Roughlock Falls for photo opportunities. The drive itself is the main attraction, but the option to pull over for short hikes or simply to soak in the scenery adds to the experience. Consider visiting in the fall for spectacular foliage or summer for the most vibrant greenery.
🎣 Anglers & Outdoor Enthusiasts
+1 Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before casting your line.Beyond fishing, the canyon is ideal for hiking and photography. Trails like Devil's Bathtub provide a moderate challenge with a unique reward, while the numerous viewpoints along the scenic byway offer endless photographic possibilities, especially during the fall foliage season.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway Experience
Along the byway, numerous pull-offs and designated viewpoints allow visitors to stop and admire the scenery. The drive is punctuated by several stunning waterfalls, each with its own unique charm. Bridal Veil Falls is a classic roadside cascade, while Spearfish Falls and Roughlock Falls offer more expansive views and opportunities for short walks. The road itself is well-maintained, making it accessible for most vehicles, and it's a popular route for motorcyclists and cyclists as well.
Beyond the visual spectacle, the byway serves as a gateway to various outdoor activities. Hikers can explore trails leading to hidden gems like Devil's Bathtub, while anglers can find excellent flyfishing opportunities in the clear waters of Spearfish Creek. The drive is also a fantastic way to spot local wildlife, such as deer and various bird species, adding an element of surprise to the journey.
+1Hiking and Waterfalls in Spearfish Canyon
Beyond Devil's Bathtub, other notable spots include Eleventh Hour Gulch, which offers a more secluded, slot canyon-like experience, and the areas around the main waterfalls. Bridal Veil Falls is easily accessible right from the roadside, making it a perfect quick stop for photos. Spearfish Falls and Roughlock Falls also have short trails leading to their bases, allowing for close-up views and the soothing sounds of cascading water.
+1When exploring these trails, it's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, as many paths can be uneven and wet. Bringing water is also essential, especially during warmer months. The beauty of these natural attractions is best appreciated with a sense of adventure and a willingness to immerse yourself in the rugged landscape.
Best Times and Tips for Visiting
To make the most of your visit, consider these tips: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, offering a more peaceful experience. Download offline maps as cell service can be unreliable within the canyon.
For those interested in specific activities, flyfishing is a popular pursuit, particularly near the Spearfish Canyon Lodge.
+1 Wildlife viewing is also a highlight, with deer and other animals often spotted along the route. Remember to respect the natural environment by staying on marked trails and packing out everything you pack in.
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