Lookout Mountain is perhaps the most well known and traversed hike in Spearfish.  From hikers to bikers to simple outdoor enthusiasts, this mountain will make all happy.  Trails up both the West & South sides of the mountain ensure hours of adventure.  The lucky dwellers of the Spearfish community have this trail literally in their backyard.

In the past there has been a great deal of controversy in regards to closing previous gates that allowed access to Lookout Mountain and placing signs on the mountain for those exploring.  In 2014, a gate that once existed at Exit 12 on I90 was closed due to the unsafe parking of vehicles on the exit ramp.  Currently, visitors to the mountain are able to access it at the Nevada Street trailhead which has no signing. You can also access via the trailhead off of Pony Express Lane in the Sandstone development.  The Nevada Street access point takes you under I90 via a tunnel.  Both access points create very safe entrances to Lookout Mountain.

The view from the top is breathtaking, especially in the Spring, and all of the exploring of Spearfish seems only at your fingertips.  The trails are very visible and any venture off of these trails could lead you to unwanted encounters with rattle snakes, deer, cattle, and/or ticks.  Be sure to make a thorough check for ticks on kids and pets once you’ve ventured back down the mountain.  Bring water and wear light clothing on hot summer days.  Also, don’t forget your camera.  I have seen photos from the top of this mountain overlooking the Spearfish area that contain sunsets that are truly a sight for the eye.

How do you get to Lookout Mountain in Spearfish, South Dakota?

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