Black Hills National Forest Road 231 – Spring Creek Loop
Creek crossings and mining history in the pines
Forest Road 231 cuts a challenging path through some of the Black Hills’ most rugged mining terrain, where old gold claims and abandoned prospect holes dot the pine-covered hillsides. The route follows Spring Creek through a maze of granite outcroppings and narrow canyon passages, with the notorious “Pinch Point” squeeze requiring precise wheel placement between house-sized boulders. Multiple creek crossings get interesting during spring runoff, and the climb up to the old Homestake Mine overlook tests both driver skill and vehicle capability on loose rock shelves.
This is solid intermediate 4WD territory requiring high clearance and skid plates for the rocky creek beds. Stock 4x4s with experienced drivers can handle it, but the technical sections demand attention and patience. Best tackled May through October when snow clears the higher elevations. No permits needed, but bring recovery gear and extra water – cell service vanishes once you drop into the canyon system. The payoff includes pristine camping spots along Spring Creek and panoramic views of the entire Black Hills from the mining overlook.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6200 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Lead, South Dakota |
| Land manager | Black Hills National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle Black Hills NF Road 231?
Yes, a stock Wrangler with decent tires will do fine. You'll need 4-low for the steeper granite sections and creek crossings, but it's not a tire-shredder.
Is the Spring Creek Loop accessible in early spring or late fall?
May through October is your window. Snow closes the higher elevations from November through April, and spring snowmelt makes creek crossings sketchy until May.
Do I need permits or pay fees for this Black Hills trail?
No permits or fees required. It's National Forest land, so dispersed camping is free and the trail is open to public use.
What's the toughest part of the Spring Creek Loop?
The granite climbs after the creek crossings will test your traction and line choice. Rocky, steep, and loose - take your time and use your spotter.
How deep are the water crossings on Spring Creek?
Typically 12-18 inches during normal flow, but can hit 2+ feet during spring runoff or after heavy rains. Check water levels before committing - no cell service to call for help.