Posted in South Dakota August 29, 2017 by

This South Dakota Hiking Trail Is The Stuff Dreams Are Made Of

With summer temperatures still broiling, it’s time for a hike to cool things off a bit. Head to Spearfish to hike Crow Peak.

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The Crow Peak Trail is about six miles, round trip. The Forest Service rates it as difficult because of its elevation gain - a strenuous 1,696 feet. This shady hike offers plenty of stunning views and some gorgeous wildflowers and plants.
Brittney Sanderson/Alltrails
The beginning of the trail is shady and pleasant.
Lisa Hall/Alltrails
You'll see wildflowers along the path...
Bob Adams/Alltrails
Lisa Hall/Alltrails
...and ferns add plenty of lush greenery.
Lisa Hall/Alltrails
The trail cuts back and forth along the mountain.
Jon Valentine/Alltrails
It's mostly shaded, but can be narrow and rocky in spots.
Lisa Hall/Alltrails
The trees offer welcome respite from the summer sun.
Christine Haaland/Alltrails
Along the way, you'll encounter some incredible views of the valley - just a hint of what's to come.
Christine Haaland/Alltrails
Parts of the trail are steep, especially as you near the summit.
Krissy Kranz/Alltrails
The view from the summit is a well-earned reward at the end of the trail.
David Stradling/Alltrails
From this perch, you can see the Bearlodge Mountains of Wyoming, parts of Montana, and many South Dakota icons such as Bear Butte, Spearfish Mountain and Citadel Rock.
This hike is dog-friendly! Just make sure to clean up after your furry friend.
Samantha R./Alltrails
You'll find the trailhead from Higgins Gulch Road, about seven miles from Spearfish. There's a small parking lot on your left; the trailhead starts there.
Google
Make sure to bring plenty of water with you, and don't forget your camera!

Have you hiked on this trail? Tell us about your experience!