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Black Hills: Driving or Hiking the Black Hills

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Veröffentlicht am 23:34 30.09.2008 von mke_maddie



If you were to drive through the Black Hills, you can probably see all of it in one day. Although you are not as immersed in the environment as you would be if hiking, you still get a good sense of the wildlife and views of the stunning scenery. I would suggest stopping and hiking in a few of the areas that suite you’re fancy. Two routs in particular are the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway and Spearfish Canyon’s Highway 14A.

Peter Norbeck there is plentiful views of lakes and large boulders. On calm days these boulders are mirrored by the lake and make amazing panoramic backdrops. On this path, you will pass on Needles Highway, where you will see Needles Eye and Cathedral Spiral. You’ll also come across SylvanLake, the oldest reservoir in the Black Hills, and the Forest Ecology Wayside, which tells guests the history of the Black Hills forests and fire. This drive is about 70 miles long. Keep in mind there are many sharp curves, tunnels, and bridges.

Spearfish Canyon’s Scenic Byway is another great road that takes you on an adventure through the Black Hills. This path twists through thousand-foot-high limestone palisades. The limestone emits shades of brown, pink and brown and tower over the highway. This highway is shorter, running nineteen miles through the gorge. Roadside attractions include waterfalls (Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls are two that pit stops need to be made for), and the Homestake Gold Mine. If you’re looking to step out of the car for hike, explore the Iron Creek or Eleventh Hour Gulch canyon. There are noted restaurants and lodges throughout the highway.

With so many hiking options, I thought I would break down my opinion of the best areas. First and foremost would be Harney Peak. Standing at 7,242 feet, this peak is the highest point east of the Rockies and west of the Pyrenees. On a visible day, guests can see miles into the distance, and is by far one of the most beautiful views I have ever seen. The hike itself is about six miles round trip, and is not too difficult of a climb. Keep in mind that there is up-hill work to do on your trip back because you do have to scale a small mountain to reach Harney. I also recommend hiking earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon, avoiding the hottest part of the day.

Another great trail is Skyline Drive. The trail breaks various times, giving you options in different paths and directions. No matter what you decide…the trail will be easy and will have a beautiful scenic view (it is also short). Beware that you will have to share the road with cars…but the view at sunset can’t be beat, plus you can trek through Dinosaur Hill.

Bear Butte gives you a view of four states on a clear day. This is a difficult hiking path however. The trail is rocky with little shade and lots of steps to climb. Again, I would recommend climbing in the early morning or later afternoon avoiding the hottest part of the day. I can promise that you will sweat well over half your body water weight.

My final recommendation would be Old Baldy. It’s an easy hike. Although the views of the prairie are subpar, it’s really an enjoyable time. I also suggest bringing a picnic basket for lunch…it’s one of the best pit stops to make.

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