The best road cycling routes around North Spearfish

Komoot offers 5 curated road cycling routes around North Spearfish, ranging from easy to difficult. These routes allow you to explore the stunning Black Hills region, including the famous Spearfish Canyon.

For an easier ride, consider the Bridal Veil Falls loop from Ward 2, which is 26.4 km (16.4 miles) long. Another great option is the 7.5-mile Spearfish Recreation and Cycle Path, which winds through the city of Spearfish and its parks, following Spearfish Creek and connecting to Spearfish Canyon, making it suitable for all skill levels.

Yes, experienced riders looking for a challenge can tackle the Spearfish Canyon loop. This difficult 71.0 km (44.1 miles) route features significant elevation gain through the canyon's varied terrain, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.

Absolutely. Many routes in the area are designed as loops. For instance, the Spearfish – Bridal Veil Falls loop from North Spearfish is a popular 34.6 km (21.5 miles) circular trail that takes you through Spearfish Canyon.

Road cycling routes in North Spearfish offer breathtaking scenery. The Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway itself is a 19-mile corridor through a spectacular 1,000-foot deep gorge, showcasing distinct layers of limestone, dolomite, and sandstone. You'll also encounter towering canyon walls, lush forests, and the crystal-clear Spearfish Creek. The canyon is particularly vibrant in the fall when the trees burst into color.

Yes, Spearfish Canyon is known as a 'paradise for waterfall enthusiasts.' You can easily access Bridal Veil Falls from a roadside pullout along the scenic byway. Spearfish Falls is also accessible via a short walk from the Latchstring Inn, and Roughlock Falls can be reached via a short side trip from Savoy, offering a breathtaking multi-tiered view.

The fall is particularly enchanting for road cycling in North Spearfish, as the ponderosa pine, birch, aspen, and oak trees display a vibrant palette of colors. However, the crystal-clear waters within the canyon are refreshing on a hot summer day, making summer also a great time to visit. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While this guide focuses on road cycling, the region does offer gravel options for those seeking a different challenge. Stronger riders can explore gravel roads from Savoy up to Cement Ridge, an out-and-back route that is all uphill one way and downhill the other. One of the routes in this guide, Whitewood loop — Gravel, also incorporates gravel sections.

Many popular cycling routes, especially those along the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, have roadside pullouts and designated parking areas. For routes starting within the city of Spearfish, public parking is generally available near trailheads or parks that connect to the Spearfish Recreation and Cycle Path.

Within Spearfish and along the more developed sections of the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, you can find various establishments for refreshments. The Latchstring Inn, for example, is located near Spearfish Falls and offers a convenient stop. It's always a good idea to plan your route and check for available services beforehand, especially on longer rides.

North Spearfish is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond cycling, visitors can enjoy hiking to destinations like Devil's Bathtub or Community Caves, rock climbing, fishing in Spearfish Creek, birdwatching, and picnicking. The area is also rich in wildlife, including deer, mountain goats, and bobcats. For more information on local attractions, you can visit visitspearfish.com.

The most popular road cycling route highlighted in this guide is Spearfish Falls via Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. This moderate 43.8 km (27.2 miles) trail carves through a 1,000-foot deep gorge, following Spearfish Creek, and is a favorite among local cyclists.