SPEARFISH CANYON

Spearfish Canyon is one of those places to not miss when visiting this area.  Spearfish Canyon is the Northern Hills' number one natural attraction. A great spot for wildlife enthusiasts, as the diverse array of plant life, provides a comfortable home for deer, mountain goats, porcupines and bobcats, The breathtaking limestone palisades of this creek-carved gorge are more ancient than the Grand Canyon – albeit much closer together. Once accessible only by horseback, Spearfish Canyon’s narrow, 1000-foot walls are among the most spectacular scenery in the Black Hills.

The highlights of the canyon are the waterfalls.  They are beautiful.  I am partial to running creeks/rivers and waterfalls, but I don't think me saying they are the highlights is an overstatement.

Being here in September was a bonus.  The fall foliage just adds splendor to the canyon.  The beautiful colors frame the 1000 feet walls.  When you come from a place that has one season, you truly are mesmerized with the changing of the seasons.  Fall just happens to be my favorite.

The canyon is 20 miles long and if you drive it with no stops, it takes about half an hour.  However, I can't imagine not stopping and walking to some of these beautiful falls.  So, I would plan on around 2-3 hours in the canyon.  Warning:  Picture overload

We started the canyon in the town of Spearfish and went to Hill City.  When we arrived in Spearfish, I was pleasantly surprised to see a street market!  I LOVE street markets.  It was relatively small, but fun. 

As we were traveling back to Rapid City, we passed a National cemetery.  We decided to stop by and take a couple of pictures.  There is just something about National cemeteries.  They make me feel so humbled and patriotic.  It reminds me of how grateful I am for each of those veterans' service to our country and for my freedom. God Bless them and God Bless the USA.