South Dakota Scenic Drives Guide - South Dakota Scenic Drives '24

At a Glance → Distance: 19 miles Trip Length: 1 day Start/Stop: Spearfish or Cheyenne Crossing

The short-but-sweet Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway offers a sampler platter of gorgeous Black Hills scenery. Really take your time exploring this ancient canyon, whose limestone cliffs conceal misty waterfalls, sun-dappled streams and other natural wonders, bookended by two charming towns.

TOP STOPS

Termesphere^® Gallery

Make time to marvel at the whimsical work of artist Dick Termes. His acclaimed Termesphere^® paintings are three-dimensional spheres that depict fully contained worlds, and many are available for purchase at his Spearfish gallery.

High Plains Western Heritage Center

Learn about South Dakota’s pioneer and Native history at this sprawling educational center, which offers a variety of exhibits.

D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery & Archives

Go hiking, watch for wildlife and browse the museum’s wealth of fishery artifacts at one of the oldest operating hatcheries in the country.

Spearfish Canyon Nature Area

Drive through the towering palisades that surround this creek-carved canyon known for breathtaking waterfalls like Spearfish Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Slow down to enjoy the beauty of Roughlock Falls, Spearfish Canyon’s only multi-tiered waterfall. Hiking trails crisscross the area, including the Rimrock Trail and 76 Trail.

Spearfish Creek

Try your hand at one of South Dakota’s favorite pastimes, fly-fishing. The creek’s scenic pools and rapids make it a top spot for angling, especially from April through September.

Spearfish Canyon Lodge

Grab a bite to eat at the lodge’s restaurant, Latchstring, and savor the flavors of chicken-fried steak, trout almondine and chislic, a South Dakota staple. You can book a room for the night, too.

Terry Peak Ski Area

If you find yourself in Spearfish during the winter, a day spent on the slopes at this family-friendly ski resort is a must. Rentals and lessons are available by reservation.

Stage Stop Café

End your drive on US Highway 14A with dinner in Cheyenne Crossing, which was a bustling stagecoach stop in the late 1800s. While everything on the menu is delightful, the buffalo patty melt is not to be missed.