Welcome to the Mount Rushmore State: a beautiful place full of natural wonders, incredible views, intriguing history, and so much more. Like anywhere else, there are places in this state that get a lot of attention – take the Devil’s Bathtub in South Dakota, which you’ll find hidden away in Spearfish Canyon in a stunning setting that everyone’s heard of by now. It’s one of the best swimming holes in the state, but the hike to reach it is just as worthy of your attention and love. It’s a moderately challenging route, but the reward is worth it. The reward isn’t necessarily the Bathtub, either – the entire path to the swimming hole is one of the best hikes in South Dakota.

This is, truly, one of the best hikes in South Dakota - hands down.
Jenny Killian/AllTrails
It's outrageously scenic, though it's a bit challenging at times and requires more than a few stream crossings.
But, personally, all my favorite hikes involve water in some way, so the almost constant presence of the stream along this trek is a welcome feature.
Lindsey Haas/AllTrails
It used to be that the hike was tough to find thanks to lacking signage, but as of 2019, there's plenty of new signage to guide your adventure.
It's just over one and a half miles long, and I think it's easily among the most rewarding hikes in South Dakota.
Brent King/AllTrails
Yes, it's challenging at parts. Yes, you'll want to pack water, sunscreen, and probably hiking poles, if you've got 'em. But ultimately, I promise: the reward is worth it.

Related Stories

This 7.1-Mile Trail In South Dakota Is Covered In Wildflower Blooms In The Springtime

This 7.1-Mile Trail In South Dakota Is Covered In Wildflower Blooms In The Springtime

 18 Best Hikes In South Dakota: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails To Visit In 2024

18 Best Hikes In South Dakota: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails To Visit In 2024

 The Incredible Hike In South Dakota That Leads To A Fascinating Abandoned Town

The Incredible Hike In South Dakota That Leads To A Fascinating Abandoned Town
Most folks might argue that the reward is simply the Devil's Bathtub itself.
Dan V/AllTrails
And it's true that it's one of the best swimming holes in all of South Dakota, but to me, the hike is just as much a reward as where the hike leads. No pain, no gain, as they say - though it's not that painful, I promise.
If it were, the trail would be rated as hard instead of moderate - so just be ready for a slightly-exhausting adventure that pays off more and more with every step.
Lindsey Haas/AllTrails
The rocks can be slippery, and there can be mud at times, so remain situationally aware and make sure you're wearing all the right stuff to hike. Hiking along water is always more challenging than simply hiking on a dirt trail... but, boy, it's worth it!
The hike to Devil's Bathtub is open all year, but my favorite time of year to visit is during summer and autumn - the fall colors are something incredible.
David Keith/AllTrails

Not sure what to bring for your hike? Check out our awesome hiking trip packing list, which ought to give you all the inspiration and ideas you need. For more information about this stunning trail, check out its listing on AllTrails.

What are your favorite hikes in South Dakota? Let me know.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore South Dakota

Featured Addresses
Devils Bathtub Trailhead, 1917 Spearfish Canyon Hwy, Lead, SD 57754, USA