Spearfish Canyon Backcountry
Spearfish Canyon Backcountry is an easy 30+ miles off-road trail near Spearfish, SD, best run May - October. No gear is marked required; All-terrain tires is recommended. A stock high-clearance 4x4 can run it; check the gear list before you go.
Trail Conditions
No reports yet
A dramatic limestone canyon in the northern Black Hills with forest roads branching to hidden waterfalls, historic mining claims, and panoramic rim overlooks. The 1,000-foot canyon walls glow golden in fall when aspens and birch turn color.
Fun Facts
Scenes from Dances with Wolves were filmed in Spearfish Canyon.
The canyon's limestone walls are 60 million years old.
Spearfish Canyon has been called the 'most beautiful canyon in the United States' by Frank Lloyd Wright.
🛞 Tires
Closest campgrounds to Spearfish Canyon Backcountry:
- Thunder Basin Campground · Sundance · 26 mi (straight-line)
- Cook Lake Recreation Area · 29 mi (straight-line)
Straight-line distance. Check the map for drive time.
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Spearfish, SD
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Stock rigs can usually run this trail, but the right tire size and fitment make it more enjoyable.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Verify your stock tires meet minimum clearance for this trail.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Ensure any wheel upgrade clears your factory suspension.