Crow Peak

ABILITY RATING AND TERRAIN TYPE: Very Difficult - Single-track

LENGTH: 3+ miles

Crow Peak is one of the most challenging trails in the Northern Black Hills . Recommended for difficult hiking, this trail is a very rugged 3.5 miles long, and was not designed for mountain biking. It is DEFINITELY NOT for the new intermediate or beginning riders. The trail quickly rises in elevation from 4,200 feet to 5,760 feet, and will force you to use all your technical skills for climbing shortly after you start out. In some areas, the trail is eroded or covered in loose rock and very hard to get footing, even when hiking. Switchbacks are extremely tight, and as you get closer to the peak, the trail becomes covered with large limestone chunks that make riding very difficult. PLEASE WALK THESE SECTIONS - the hill is very steep and could be quite dangerous if you fall. As you reach the last 100 or so feet to the summit, there will be a small area where you will have to hike-a-bike to reach your final destination. This section is very intimidating to anyone with a fear of heights. Once at the top, your view will be spectacular. Looking out to the East, you'll be able to see the City of Spearfish nestled in the valley between Lookout Mountain and Spearfish Peak . Bear Butte, Higgins Gulch, Centennial Prairie, Crook Mountain, Polo Peak, Little Crow Peak, Bald Mountain, War Eagle Hill, Terry Peak, Deer Mountain, Ragged Top Mountain and Citadel Rock will also be visible in that area. To the West looking toward Wyoming , you'll be able to see Crooks Tower , Spearfish Needles, Cement Ridge, Mineral Hill, Bull Hill, Sundance Mountain and Warren Peak . Be sure to bring your own drinking water with you as there isn't any available on this trail. DO NOT DRINK WATER FROM THE CREEK - most creeks in the hills are not safe for human consumption. For more photos of Crow Peak , click here: HOW TO GET THERE: From I-90, take Exit 12 into the City of Spearfish . Follow this street ( Jackson Street ) to the first stop light. Turn right onto Main Street and follow it for about 9 blocks. Turn left at Burger King and follow this street as it continues out of town. Continue to stay on this same road until it curves to the right and crosses a bridge. At the bridge, turn left onto Higgins Gulch Road (#214), which is a dirt road, and follow it for about 5 miles until you see a large gravel parking area. The trail begins through the gate.

Spearfish Canyon

Deer Creek to Silver City

Spearfish Canyon

Deer Creek to Silver City

Crow Peak

The Centennial Trail

The Big Hill Trail System