Bridal Veil Falls

The Spearfish Falls via Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway offers an incredibly scenic road cycling experience through the Northern Black Hills of South Dakota. You'll ride alongside the constant companion of the rushing Spearfish Creek, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and dense forests of spruce, pine, aspen, and birch. The route, which follows an old scenic rail line, provides a unique journey through a canyon considered a geological wonder, predating even the Grand Canyon. Keep an eye out for the impressive Bridal Veil Falls, a highlight directly visible from the road.

This moderately challenging ride covers 27.2 miles (43.8 km) with 1593 feet (486 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 3 minutes. The byway is mostly well-paved, with dedicated 4-foot wide shoulders from Spearfish to Savoy, though these can disappear further along. Be mindful of increased traffic during peak times, such as the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Autumn is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the canyon's diverse foliage transforms into brilliant yellows.

Recognized by "Bicycling Magazine" as one of the nation's top 50 scenic bike paths, this route is more than just a ride; it's an immersion in natural history. The gradual grades are a legacy of its past as a rail line, making for a consistent but manageable climb. Numerous pullouts and picnic areas along the way encourage you to pause, enjoy the views, and perhaps take a short hike to explore other natural features like Spearfish Falls.

The Spearfish Canyon loop offers a truly immersive road cycling experience through a geological wonderland, tracing the crystal-clear Spearfish Creek past towering limestone cliffs and dense forests. You'll navigate a mix of paved roads, sometimes with dedicated shoulders, and enjoy the dramatic scenery, including the easily accessible Bridal Veil Falls. This is a difficult 44.1-mile (71.0 km) route with 3536 feet (1078 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 3 hours and 34 minutes, making it ideal for cyclists seeking a significant challenge.

When planning your ride, be aware that while the initial sections from Spearfish offer dedicated shoulders, these can disappear further into the canyon, requiring extra caution. Bicycle rentals are available at the Spearfish Canyon Lodge in Savoy and in Spearfish itself if you need them. Autumn is a particularly stunning time to visit, as the diverse foliage of ponderosa pines, aspen, and oak transforms the canyon into a vibrant display of color.

Spearfish Canyon is not just a beautiful ride; it's a recognized natural treasure, acclaimed by "Bicycling Magazine" as one of the nation's "Top-50 scenic bike paths." Its unique geology and lush environment within the Black Hills National Forest make it a standout touring cycling destination, offering a memorable adventure for those prepared for its demanding terrain.

Cycle the challenging 63.3-mile Sturgis loop via Spearfish Canyon in Black Hills National Forest, featuring waterfalls and scenic views.