Fall Drives through the Black Hills
Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway
The 20-mile route (US Hwy. 14A) runs along sparkling Spearfish Creek from Spearfish to Cheyenne Crossing. Steep limestone cliffs flank either side, with oak, elm, birch, aspen and ponderosa pine covering the canyon’s jagged peaks. There’s lots of pull-offs for picture taking or short hikes, plus three waterfalls provide sylvan views of nature at its finest. Pack a picnic lunch for a stop at Roughlock Falls State Recreation Area near Savoy.
View Directions to US-14 Alt W/US-14 Scenic W in a larger map
Vanocker Canyon/Nemo Road
Beginning at Sturgis Exit 32, off Interstate 90, Vanocker Canyon Road (Forest Service Road 26) winds southwest for 17 miles to the tiny historic community of Nemo. Large stands of birch and aspen provide a glowing backdrop along this peaceful and uncrowded paved byway. Nemo offers a general store/gas station and a restaurant/bar, or you can stop to take a short hike along sections of the Centennial Trail just off the gravel road behind this quaint community. Continue down Nemo Road in either direction (north towards Deadwood or south to Rapid City) and enjoy the scenic roadside views of Box Elder Creek.
Boulder Canyon
The high-walled valley road (US Hwy 14A) between Sturgis and Deadwood provides a short, yet sweet, 12-mile drive with niches of colorful autumn views. It’s a relaxing interlude before the excitement of a night of Deadwood gaming and dining. Or you can catch Interstate 90 at Sturgis Exit 30 for a quick jaunt back to Rapid City.
Belle Fourche to Devils Tower
The 52 miles from Belle Fourche to Devils Tower along State Hwy. 34 are always stunning, whatever the season. But a fall drive is particularly wonderful. Orange, red, and golden-hued pockets of burr oaks and elm are pocketed in the creekbeds and valley swales along the route. It’s a more open and rolling landscape than the Black Hills, and provides a different variety of fall beauty. And awaiting you at the end of the drive is the always awesome granite monolith of Devils Tower.
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