Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway
Black Hills limestone canyon spectacular
Spearfish Creek carved this spectacular canyon through 500-million-year-old limestone, creating a corridor of waterfalls, aspen groves, and vertical cliffs reaching 1,000 feet. The paved 22-mile route follows US Highway 14A from Spearfish to Cheyenne Crossing, passing Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls—both accessible by short hikes. The canyon narrows dramatically at points, with the road threading between towering limestone walls that block sunlight for miles.
This is an easy scenic drive perfect for any vehicle, though RVs should use caution on the tighter curves near Savoy. Fall colors peak in late September when aspens turn golden against red limestone walls. No permits required and the route stays open year-round, though winter brings ice conditions. Numerous pullouts offer photo ops and trailhead access. Several lodges and campgrounds line the route, but dispersed camping isn’t allowed within the canyon itself.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Historic, Scenic, Water Features |
| Length (miles) | 22 mi / 35.4 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 5200 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Nearest town | Spearfish, SD |
| Land manager | Black Hills National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Decent |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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