During a drive through Spearfish Canyon, it’s easy to imagine that it took a wild river to create this narrow gorge. But within the modern era, the Spearfish River has been demoted to creek status. In fact, during recent years of drought, water in the creek has been slowed to a trickle during the autumn season.
   Surrounded by deep green ponderosa pine, white spruce and high cliff walls, it's good to see this Spearfish Creek view of a brisk running stream. For anglers, the nearby D.C. Booth Fish Hatchery in the town of Spearfish, ensures an ample supply of brown, rainbow and brook trout. The drought has had an adverse affect on trout populations in some streams, reducing the number of fish as well as anglers.
   During South Dakota's summer months, the greens of aspens, oaks and birch line the lower elevations near the river banks, while the fir trees enjoy the higher sections of the canyon. This great scenic drive, one of the most picturesque places in the Black Hills, also offers sightseers a collection of graceful waterfalls. Feeding the creek, side canyons streams create the beautiful cascades. The 60 foot Bridal Veil Falls (upper inset) is located right along highway SD-14A, and just a mile from the highway, FR-222 heads west from Savoy to Roughlock Falls (lower inset). Here, a one mile hike leads to this popular waterfall sight. Starting beside the Latchstring Inn and Restaurant, a short hike leads to Spearfish Falls, another beauty.

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