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United States
South Dakota
Meade County

Blackhawk

Easy hikes and walks around Blackhawk

5.0

(1)

37

hikers

9

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Blackhawk are set within the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains, characterized by dense pine forests and vibrant aspen groves. The region features varied elevation changes, from paths along Clear Creek to climbs into surrounding hills. Hikers can explore historic mining areas and enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and the town itself.

Best easy hiking trails around Blackhawk

  • The most popular easy hiking route is North Loop Trail, a 3.4 miles (5.4 km) trail…

Last updated: May 18, 2026

1

hikers

#1.

Creek Caves Trail

1.25km

00:21

0m

70m

Embark on an easy 0.8 miles (1.2 km) hike along the Creek Caves Trail, a short route in the Black Hills National Forest that takes about 21 minutes to complete.…

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Easy

4.78km

01:20

50m

160m

The Botany Canyon Trail offers an easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hike through a surprisingly varied landscape. You will gain 174 feet (53 metres) in elevation, and the route typically takes…

Easy
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936m

00:16

30m

20m

The Schroeder Trail offers an easy hike through the Black Hills National Forest, covering 0.6 miles (0.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 86 feet (26 metres). You can…

Easy

2

hikers

Embark on the M Hill and Cowboy Hill Loop, an easy hike that offers rewarding views of Rapid City and the distant Black Hills. This route covers 2.8 miles (4.4…

Easy

5.43km

01:33

130m

130m

The North Loop Trail offers an easy hiking experience through the natural beauty of Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park. As you hike, you will find a straightforward path, perfect for enjoying the…

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Daniel Krueger
August 8, 2023, Chuck Lien Family Park

Chuck Lien Family Park covers a similar area as Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park, a little further to the north. Its main highlight is M Hill, but besides that there are a lot of very nice trails to hike in the area!

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All trails inside Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park are quite easy to hike, and there is not much gain in elevation. From the northern part of the trail, it's just a very small hike back to the parking lot.

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Entrance sign to Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park and its trails. The park includes about 20 miles of trails for mountain bikers and hikers. Even though very close to the city center, this park is the perfect spot to enjoy nature and nice views.

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Daniel Krueger
August 1, 2023, M Hill

The M Hill in Rapid City is linked to the South Dakota Mines. In 1912 the students of the university put up a huge "M" on top of the hill to draw attention to the university. Nowadays, it's a famous landmark of the city.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are there around Black Hawk?

Black Hawk offers a selection of easy hiking trails, with 8 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are 9 hiking routes available in the area, catering to various preferences.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Black Hawk?

The best time for hiking in Black Hawk is generally from late spring through fall. Autumn is particularly stunning when the aspen groves change color. While winter hiking is possible, be prepared for snow and ice, especially at higher elevations, and check trail conditions beforehand.

Are there any easy loop trails in Black Hawk?

Yes, Black Hawk features several easy loop trails. A popular option is the M Hill and Cowboy Hill Loop, which is 2.8 miles long and takes you through local hills. The North Loop Trail is also a great choice, offering 3.4 miles of forested landscape views.

Are the easy hiking trails in Black Hawk suitable for families?

Many easy trails in Black Hawk are well-suited for families, offering gentle elevation changes and scenic views. Trails like the Botany Canyon Trail provide a pleasant experience through a canyon environment. The accessible paths along Clear Creek Canyon are also excellent for family outings.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?

Yes, many trails in the Black Hawk area are dog-friendly, allowing your canine companions to join the adventure. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.

Are there any easy trails with waterfalls or significant viewpoints?

While the immediate Black Hawk area focuses on forest and mining views, nearby attractions offer waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints. Dinosaur Park Viewpoint offers sweeping vistas. For waterfalls, a short drive can take you to Boulder Falls or Forsythe Canyon, which feature cascading water accessible via easy strolls.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see on these easy hikes?

Easy hikes around Black Hawk wind through diverse natural landscapes. You'll encounter dense pine forests, vibrant aspen groves (especially beautiful in the fall), and views of the rugged Rocky Mountain terrain. Trails along Clear Creek offer canyon views with dramatic rock walls and shady cottonwoods.

Are there any historical sites or mining remnants along the easy trails?

Yes, Black Hawk has a rich Gold Rush history, and many trails in the region will lead you past historical mining remnants and sites, adding a unique historical dimension to your outdoor experience. The town itself is a former mining and mill town, offering further exploration.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Black Hawk?

The easy trails in Black Hawk are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful forested landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains without strenuous climbs.

Are there accessible trails for those with mobility challenges?

While specific wheelchair-accessible trails are not extensively listed, the Clear Creek Canyon Park, with its Big Easy Trailhead, is known for offering accessible, laid-back hikes with beautiful canyon views alongside the creek. These paths are generally flatter and wider.

What is the typical duration for an easy hike in Black Hawk?

The easy hikes in Black Hawk vary in length and duration. For example, the Creek Caves Trail can be completed in about 21 minutes, while the Botany Canyon Trail takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. Most easy trails are designed for shorter, enjoyable outings.

Is parking readily available near the trailheads?

Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular trailheads, especially those within designated open spaces or parks like Maryland Mountain Quartz Valley Open Space, typically offer dedicated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific trail information for details on parking facilities.

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