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South Dakota Hiking|Nature

The Shady, Creekside Trail In South Dakota You'll Want To Hike Again And Again

By Catherine Armstrong | Published September 19, 2018

The beauty of South Dakota’s Black Hills National Forest is unparalleled, and the best way to immerse yourself in it is by lacing up your hiking boots and going for a stroll. Here’s a gorgeous, shady trail that follows Spring Creek, and you’ll want to hike it again and again.

To find the trailhead for the Spring Creek Loop Trail, take Sheridan Lake Road from Rapid City for about 14 miles. There's a large sign right on the side of the road that marks the trailhead, which also serves the Centennial Trail and the Flume Trail.

The trail is just over 3.5 miles long, and is considered easy enough for most hikers. You'll encounter an elevation gain of about 430 feet throughout the hike.

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Spring Creek Trail takes you right along the creek, and provides excellent views of the Black Hills. It's a shady trail that's perfect on a warm day.

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You'll cross the creek on several occasions, using little footbridges.

If you're ok with getting your feet wet, you can wade through the water if you'd prefer.

You'll come to the shores of Sheridan Lake about halfway through the loop. Take a break for a picnic lunch here and soak in the scenery.

The last stretch of trail follows the Flume Trail, and you'll see some evidence of the gold mining days, including this historic tunnel.

Plan on spending a couple hours to complete this hike - take you time and enjoy the beauty of the Black Hills!

Do you have a favorite trail that you like to hike again and again? Tell us about it in the comments!

For more great hiking trails, you’ll want to take a look at these five out-of-this-world walks that lead to fairytale bridges.

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