3 Must See Waterfalls in the Black Hills of South Dakota

Are there waterfalls in South Dakota? Most definitely! And 3 of my absolute favorite all happen to be located along one stretch of highway known as the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The best part about these waterfalls, it that you are able to see them all in just one morning, afternoon or you can spend all day exploring the area - you choose! But either way, you will not be disappointed.

Here are the 3 must see waterfalls in the Black Hills of South Dakota...

#1 BRIDAL VEIL FALLS

Bridal Veil Falls is located on the northern end of the scenic byway, directly adjacent to the highway that winds its way through Spearfish Canyon. There is a parking area that allows you to park and walk over to the viewing platform. This is the most accessible waterfall in Spearfish Canyon - just make sure you hold on to little ones as you cross the highway from the parking lot. There are rumble bars to alert drivers of pedestrians, but take extra caution just to be safe.

#2 LITTLE SPEARFISH FALLS

Little Spearfish Falls are located directly behind the Latchstring Inn restaurant, across the street from the Spearfish Canyon Lodge in the Savoy area. The trailhead leading to the falls is located just to the north end of the restaurant. Follow that path down to the falls viewing area. You will return back to the parking lot along the same path. The path is dirt covered, has loose gravel at times but is accessible with strollers and wheelchairs that are off-road capable.

The hike is a short 1 mile out-and-back trail that is absolutely stunning! You will cross a bridge over the stream of rushing water, then wind your way through tall trees back towards the falls. Visiting in the winter after a snowfall is my absolutely favorite time to visit Little Spearfish Falls as it feels magical and straight out of a Christmas movie.

#3 ROUGHLOCK FALLS

Roughlock Falls is located towards the south end of the canyon and is a tiered waterfall. Take County Road 222 which turns in right at the Spearfish Canyon Lodge. Follow that gravel road to the top of the falls. You will find a parking area and accessible maintained paths that take you to the falls.

If you are up for a hike, you can park at the trailhead just behind the lodge and hike the path up to the falls from there! I highly recommend this route if you are able. The hiking path is an out-and-back trail that is approximately 2.1 miles but is not ADA, nor stroller accessible, so you'll want to be aware of that prior to attempting the hike. But the views you will see along the way are absolutely worth a hike if you are able! It is also incredible in the winter when covered in snow, so don't hesitate to come back in all seasons!

Have you ever been to any of these falls? I'd love to hear in the comments what you thought!