Exploring the Natural Beauty of Spearfish Canyon State Nature Area
Discover the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures awaiting you at Spearfish Canyon State Nature Area in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Nestled in the picturesque Black Hills of South Dakota, Spearfish Canyon State Nature Area is a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and dramatic rock formations, this park invites visitors to explore its natural wonders through scenic trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
A brief summary to Spearfish Canyon State Nature Area
- Roughlock Falls Rd, Lead, South Dakota, 57754, US
- +1605-584-3896
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially in the early mornings or near water sources.
- Check trail conditions before visiting, especially in winter, as some paths may be closed.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head south on US-85 from Spearfish Canyon. Continue on US-85 for approximately 4 miles until you reach the junction with SD-34. Take a left onto SD-34 and drive for 5 miles. You will then turn right onto Roughlock Falls Rd. Follow this road for about 2 miles, and you will arrive at the Spearfish Canyon State Nature Area. There is no admission fee to enter the nature area.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, check local bus schedules for routes that go towards Lead, SD. Once you arrive in Lead, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach Roughlock Falls Rd, which is approximately 7 miles from the bus stop. Be aware that taxi services may charge a fare, which can vary based on time and distance.
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Biking
For those who enjoy biking, there are bike paths available along Spearfish Canyon. You can bike from Spearfish Canyon to the nature area by following the same route as the cars. Make sure to wear a helmet and carry water, as the ride may take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on your pace.
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Walking
If you are up for a hike, and are starting from a nearby location in Spearfish Canyon, you can walk to the nature area. This will be a longer trek, so ensure you have appropriate footwear and are prepared for the journey. Follow the same route as the cars from US-85, but be mindful of traffic, as there are no dedicated pedestrian paths along the road.
Discover more about Spearfish Canyon State Nature Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chubby Chipmunk Hand-Dipped Chocolates
16.3 km
Discover the artisanal delights of Chubby Chipmunk Hand-Dipped Chocolates in Deadwood, where every bite is a celebration of flavor and craftsmanship.
Antique Emporium
16.4 km
Explore the Antique Emporium in Deadwood, a charming store brimming with vintage collectibles and unique treasures that reflect the rich history of the region.
Deadwood Gulch Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
16.5 km
Discover comfort and history at Deadwood Gulch Resort, your gateway to the enchanting charm of Deadwood, South Dakota.
Deadwood Gulch
16.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Deadwood Gulch, a stunning ravine in South Dakota perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
11th Hour Gulch
16.8 km
Explore 11th Hour Gulch in Spearfish, SD – a treasure trove of antiques and vintage finds that tells the story of the past.
Visit Spearfish
16.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Spearfish, South Dakota, your ultimate travel destination in the Black Hills.
Deadwood Miners Hotel & Restaurant
16.9 km
Experience the heart of Deadwood at Deadwood Miners Hotel & Restaurant, where history meets comfort and local cuisine awaits.
Silverado Franklin Historic Hotel & Gaming Complex, Legends Steakhouse & Silverado Grand Buffet
17.1 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant entertainment at Silverado Franklin Historic Hotel & Gaming Complex in Deadwood, SD.
First Deadwood Souvenirs
17.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local memorabilia at First Deadwood Souvenirs, your go-to shop for Wild West treasures in Deadwood, South Dakota.
Sick-N-Twisted Brewery
17.1 km
Experience the best of local craft beer and dining at Sick-N-Twisted Brewery in Deadwood, South Dakota.
Gold Dust Casino & Hotel
17.1 km
Discover Gold Dust Casino & Hotel in Deadwood, SD - where gaming excitement meets historic charm and comfortable accommodations.
The Midnight Star and Lil's
17.2 km
Discover the excitement of The Midnight Star and Lil's, a premier casino and bar & grill in Deadwood, South Dakota, blending gaming, dining, and entertainment.
Original Deadwood Tour
17.2 km
Immerse yourself in the Wild West at the Original Deadwood Tour, where history comes alive in the charming town of Deadwood, South Dakota.
Ride Deadwood -Home of the famous “Boot Hill Tour”
17.2 km
Discover the Wild West's rich history with Ride Deadwood’s Boot Hill Tour, an unforgettable sightseeing adventure in South Dakota.
Deadwood History & Information Center
17.2 km
Uncover the rich history of Deadwood at the Deadwood History & Information Center, your gateway to exploring this iconic Gold Rush town.
Unmissable attractions to see
Spearfish Canyon State Nature Area
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures awaiting you at Spearfish Canyon State Nature Area in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Roughlock Falls
0.2 km
Experience the stunning waterfalls and serene hiking trails of Roughlock Falls, a natural paradise in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Iron Creek Trail
3.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Iron Creek Trail in Lead, South Dakota – a must-visit hiking paradise with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Devils Bathtub Trailhead
6.5 km
Explore the stunning Devils Bathtub Trailhead in South Dakota, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty and a thrilling waterslide awaits.
Spearfish Canyon Rd
8.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Spearfish Canyon Road, a scenic drive filled with stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich wildlife in South Dakota.
Bridal Veil Falls
8.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Bridal Veil Falls, a stunning waterfall nestled in Spearfish Canyon, perfect for hiking and nature photography.
Cement Ridge Lookout
10.5 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Cement Ridge Lookout in Wyoming, where breathtaking vistas await every traveler seeking tranquility and nature.
Spearfish Mountain
12.6 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning vistas of Spearfish Mountain, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in South Dakota.
Community Cave Trail
12.9 km
Explore the scenic Community Cave Trail in Spearfish, SD, where stunning landscapes and serene hiking paths await outdoor enthusiasts.
Crow Peak Trailhead
13.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Crow Peak Trailhead in South Dakota's Black Hills, offering stunning views and diverse trails for every hiking enthusiast.
Spearfish Community Caves
13.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventurous trails of Spearfish Community Caves in the heart of South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Black Hills Mining Museum
14.0 km
Explore the rich mining history of South Dakota at the Black Hills Mining Museum, where adventure and education meet in the heart of the Black Hills.
Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center
14.3 km
Explore the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center, where science meets history in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Homestake Offices
14.9 km
Explore the Homestake Offices in Lead, SD - a significant landmark of gold mining history and the gateway to scientific discovery in the Black Hills.
George S. Mickelson Trail
14.9 km
Explore the George S. Mickelson Trail in South Dakota for stunning views, rich wildlife, and charming towns along the way, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
Boars Nest
11.7 km
Experience authentic American flavors at Boars Nest in Lead, SD – where every meal feels like home.
Lewie's Burgers & Brews
12.8 km
Experience the best hamburgers and brews at Lewie's Burgers & Brews in Lead, SD – where flavor meets fun!
The Sled Haus
13.1 km
Experience delicious comfort food at The Sled Haus in Lead, SD – a perfect stop for hungry travelers exploring the Black Hills.
Lasagna Mountain
14.0 km
Discover the rich flavors of Italy at Lasagna Mountain in Lead, SD - an unforgettable dining experience awaits.
Pizza Lab
14.2 km
Savor unique specialty pizzas at Pizza Lab in Central City - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious slice.
Outlaw Tacos, Pizza, Wings & More
14.3 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Outlaw Tacos in Lead SD – where delicious tacos, pizza & wings create unforgettable meals.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
16.6 km
Experience the joy of classic American fast food and delectable ice cream treats at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Spearfish.
Boston's Restaurant & Sports Bar
16.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of sports excitement and culinary delights at Boston's Restaurant & Sports Bar in Deadwood.
Dough Trader Pizza
16.7 km
Experience delicious artisanal pizzas crafted with fresh ingredients at Dough Trader Pizza in Spearfish - A true taste of South Dakota.
Uncle Louie's Diner
16.7 km
Experience American comfort food at Uncle Louie's Diner in Spearfish - where family dining meets delicious meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Killian's
16.7 km
Experience the best steaks in Spearfish at Killian's - where flavor meets hospitality in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lucky 8 Pizzeria
16.7 km
Discover delicious pizzas in Deadwood at Lucky 8 Pizzeria - where every bite tells a story.
Gold Country Inn
16.8 km
Experience the charm of Deadwood at Gold Country Inn – your perfect blend of comfort and adventure awaits.
Basecamp Kitchen - Indian & Nepalese Food
16.8 km
Discover authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine at Basecamp Kitchen in Spearfish, where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and cultural heritage.
Taco John's
16.8 km
Experience delicious Tex-Mex flavors at Taco John's in Spearfish - your go-to spot for fast food with a Southwestern twist.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Pond Gift Shop
16.0 km
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Twin-City Hardware, Lumber, Rental, & Office Supply
16.3 km
Explore Twin-City Hardware in Deadwood, SD, for all your home improvement and office supply needs, with expert advice and friendly service.
Passin Time
16.5 km
Uncover unique gifts and local crafts at Passin Time, a charming gift shop in Spearfish, South Dakota, perfect for tourists seeking memorable souvenirs.
Key Antiques
16.6 km
Explore a world of vintage charm and unique collectibles at Key Antiques in Spearfish, South Dakota.
The Knothole LLC
16.6 km
Explore The Knothole LLC in Spearfish, SD, your ultimate destination for unique crafts, supplies, and local artisanal treasures.
Twisted Pines Design Co.
16.7 km
Explore Twisted Pines Design Co. in Deadwood, SD for unique embroidery art and souvenirs that capture the spirit of South Dakota.
Spearfish Coins & Antiques
16.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of coins and antiques in Spearfish, South Dakota - a must-visit for collectors and history buffs alike.
Hidden Willow Boutique
16.8 km
Explore Hidden Willow Boutique for unique clothing and accessories in Spearfish, South Dakota, where fashion meets local charm.
Nowhere Women & Men’s Apparel
16.9 km
Explore Nowhere Women & Men’s Apparel in Spearfish, SD, your go-to destination for stylish clothing and unique stationery finds for all ages.
Elysian Clothing
16.9 km
Discover unique women's fashion and accessories at Elysian Clothing in Spearfish, SD—a boutique that celebrates style and individuality.
The Junk Drawer
16.9 km
Explore The Junk Drawer in Spearfish, SD - a charming gift shop filled with unique treasures and local artisan crafts.
2 Broke Girls (2BG) Boutique
16.9 km
Explore unique styles and chic accessories at 2 Broke Girls Boutique in Spearfish, South Dakota - your go-to destination for fashionable finds.
V Rae's Boutique
16.9 km
Discover unique fashion finds at V Rae's Boutique in Spearfish, where style meets local charm and personalized service.
Real Deals - Spearfish, SD
16.9 km
Explore Real Deals in Spearfish, SD for unique home goods and stylish women's clothing at affordable prices, perfect for every shopper's taste.
The pink Door
16.9 km
Explore The Pink Door in Spearfish, SD for a unique boutique experience filled with stylish women's clothing and personalized service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Spearfish Creek Wine Bar
16.7 km
Experience the charm of Spearfish Creek Wine Bar, where exquisite wines and artisanal bites create unforgettable moments in the heart of South Dakota.
Grant Street Liquor & Casino
16.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Grant Street Liquor & Casino, where unique liquor selections and exciting gaming options come together in Spearfish, SD.
The Watercolor Kitchen
16.7 km
Discover the flavors of Spearfish at The Watercolor Kitchen, where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality in a cozy ambiance.
Barbacoa's
16.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Barbacoa's in Spearfish, SD—where affordability meets authenticity in a delightful dining experience.
False Bottom Beer Liquor Billiards
16.9 km
Discover the lively spirit of Spearfish at False Bottom Beer Liquor Billiards, where great beer and fun billiards unite in a vibrant atmosphere.
The B&B
17.0 km
Discover the warm ambiance of The B&B in Spearfish, SD, perfect for relaxing with a drink after exploring the Black Hills.
Back Porch
17.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Back Porch in Spearfish, SD, where local brews and trivia nights await in a cozy bar setting.
Spearfish Public House
17.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Spearfish Public House, a must-visit bar in Spearfish, South Dakota.
Dale's Sportsbook - Bar & Grill
17.1 km
Experience the thrill of sports in Deadwood at Dale's Sportsbook - Bar & Grill, where great food and unforgettable moments come together.
MrBeast Burger
17.1 km
Discover the ultimate burger experience at MrBeast Burger in Spearfish, SD - where delicious meets extraordinary!
The Monkey Bar
17.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Monkey Bar in Deadwood, where local flavors and lively entertainment meet for an unforgettable night out.
Durty Nellys of Deadwood
17.3 km
Discover the lively charm of Durty Nellys in Deadwood, where karaoke and friendly vibes create an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Wild Bill Bar
17.3 km
Discover the lively Wild Bill Bar in Deadwood, where history and fun collide in a vibrant atmosphere with eclectic decor.
The Nugget Saloon
17.3 km
Discover the spirit of the Old West at The Nugget Saloon, a historic bar in Deadwood offering drinks, music, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Best Brews
17.5 km
Best Brews: Discover local craft beers in a cozy bar setting in the heart of historic Deadwood, South Dakota.
