Getting Oriented
The byway runs south-southwest from Spearfish on I-90 through the canyon to Cheyenne Crossing at US-85. Black Hills National Forest's Spearfish Ranger District manages the FS lands along the corridor. Most of the canyon walls themselves are FS land; the canyon floor along the creek is a mix of FS, private, and South Dakota state land.
Trail Overview
Twenty-two miles, point-to-point, paved. The road follows Spearfish Creek along the canyon floor with multiple pullouts. There are no off-road sections and no technical obstacles. The geology is the draw: 1,000-foot limestone walls and a series of side-canyon waterfalls.
Points of Interest
- Bridal Veil Falls. Drops directly into the canyon from the western wall, visible from a roadside pullout.
- Roughlock Falls. Side-canyon falls accessible from the Spearfish Canyon Lodge area via a paved trail.
- Spearfish Falls. Main-creek falls visible from a short trail off the Spearfish Canyon Lodge.
- Latchstring Restaurant. Spearfish Canyon Lodge's restaurant; long-running stop on the byway.
- Devil's Bathtub. Slot-canyon swimming hole accessible from a short scramble off the byway.
- Eleventh Hour Gulch. Side-canyon hike for views of the Spearfish Canyon rim.
Where to Camp
Black Hills National Forest manages Timon Campground in the Little Spearfish Canyon side drainage, with seven sites. Dispersed camping is allowed on FS land off side roads. Spearfish has private campgrounds and motels; Lead and Deadwood have lodging on the southern end.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Late September is the peak color. Plan for crowds.
- The Devil's Bathtub trail involves wading and rock scrambling. Wear shoes you can get wet.
- Combine with the loop through Lead and Deadwood for a longer northern Black Hills tour.
- Watch for wildlife on the corridor; deer are common at dawn and dusk.
- The Spearfish Canyon Lodge is the canyon's only lodging on the corridor. Book ahead.
