Spearfish Canyon in South Dakota

A winding canyon of towering limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and quiet forest roads where every mile reveals another layer of the Black Hills.

Spearfish Canyon in South Dakota is one of the most scenic drives in the Black Hills, where towering limestone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dense pine forests line a winding mountain road. Located along Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 14A), the canyon stretches for nearly 20 miles and offers easy access to iconic stops like Bridal Veil Falls, Roughlock Falls, and Spearfish Falls. For visitors exploring the Black Hills, Spearfish Canyon combines dramatic geology, abundant wildlife, and peaceful forest landscapes into one drive.

How Spearfish Canyon Formed

Spearfish Canyon formed as Spearfish Creek slowly carved through layers of limestone, dolomite, and shale over millions of years. The canyon walls expose ancient rock formations that date back more than 300 million years, revealing a geologic record of shallow seas, changing climates, and gradual erosion. As water continued cutting through the Black Hills uplift, steep cliffs, narrow valleys, and the waterfalls seen today were created along the canyon floor.

Spearfish Canyon is a place that captures the soul.

I’ve never been anywhere quite like it, and I’m sure if you make the pilgrimage out here, you won’t either. Filled with stunning cliffs and lush vegetation, this 19-mile-long canyon in South Dakota is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the Midwest.

One-thousand-foot limestone walls are wrapped in deciduous trees, cascading waterfalls, and bubbling springs for as far as the eye can see. Spearfish Creek has carved this landscape over many years and provides an idyllic backdrop for outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, mountain biking, or a scenic drive along Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway.

If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, stop at Bridal Veil Falls, Spearfish Falls, or my favorite, Roughlock Falls. This picturesque waterfall cascades down the rocky walls of Spearfish Canyon and is easily accessible from the road.

Whether you want to take in the view or dip your toes in the water, this spot is not to be missed. If you’d rather leave the driving to a guide, our private Devils Tower and Spearfish Canyon Adventure from Rapid City spends time in the canyon.

Photos of Spearfish Canyon Nature Area

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Drive

Arguably one of the best in all of South Dakota, the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Drive is outstanding in every way. The area was never well known until the railroad opened up the canyon, attracting visitors from all over the country. Frank Lloyd Wright was one of them, who commented that it was even better scenery than that of the Grand Canyon. He spent some time here and made flattering comments about Badlands National Park, the Black Hills, and Spearfish Canyon Scenic Drive.

The drive itself is 19 miles and has plenty of pull-offs, usually where there are trailheads or waterfalls. There are lots of twists and curves, but the drive is flat for the most part. Each turn reveals something new, another white canyon cliff, a cave in the wall, a waterfall, and in Autumn colors so bright yellow and orange you’ll think the forest is on fire. Honestly, it’s stunning. A strong suggestion is to take your time driving the canyon. It can be an all-day experience if you do it right. If someone is riding your tail, pull over and let them pass because you’re here to take it all in.

Waterfalls of Spearfish Canyon

During your drive on the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Drive, you will come across three waterfalls. In my opinion, the most breathtaking of these is Roughlock Falls State Nature Area. This part of the drive is perfect for relaxing walks along the creek, where you can listen to the birds and the sound of water flowing over rocks. The water is crystal clear, allowing you to see all the way to the bottom. Our Devils Tower and Spearfish Canyon Adventure spends time at the canyon’s waterfalls when conditions allow.

Roughlock Falls State Nature Area

The Roughlock Falls State Nature Area offers picnic tables, restrooms, overlooks, and paved trails. Roughlock is my favorite because you can walk along the creek and see several more minor “falls” along the way. The name comes from the locks they had to put through wagon wheels to keep them from tumbling through this area.

To get to Roughlock Falls, visitors can take a scenic drive through Spearfish Canyon, Route 14A, renowned for its stunning beauty and unique rock formations. Once in the nature area, visitors can explore the trails that wind through the lush forest surrounding the falls. The Roughlock Falls Trail is a short, easy walk leading directly to the falls. A trail system connects Roughlock Falls, Spearfish Falls and the Savoy Pond area. In winter, the road from Savoy to Roughlock Falls closes from December 15 through March 31, and the trail from Spearfish Canyon Lodge to the falls stays open all year.

Spearfish Falls

Spearfish Falls is located near the Latchstring Inn. You can use the parking lot there and begin the hike to the falls. It’s a little off the beaten path but close to Roughlock Falls. It’s worth the hike. Spearfish Falls are high and mighty. It’s probably the most substantial flowing fall in the canyon; however, years ago, before the water in the area was manipulated, it flowed twice the volume. Even though the water flow is reduced, the waterfall is still worth seeing. This particular waterfall is beautiful through all seasons, even winter. Icicles and strange formations are created from the flowing water at such a height. It’s a beautiful sight to see.

The trail starts on the north side of the Latchstring Restaurant and drops to the bottom of the canyon. Wear good shoes, because it can be slippery.

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls drops about 60 feet, and it’s the easiest waterfall in the canyon to see, because it sits right beside a large pull-off on the byway, about 5.8 miles south of the canyon’s north entrance. The water runs hardest in spring and slows down a lot in late summer and fall.