The city of Spearfish, in the northern Black Hills, recently finished construction of its newest nature trail. The new section begins in the city park campground and heads south where it connects to the existing trail along Winterville Road.

Passing through a serene nature area, this new half-mile section of trail is one of the quieter areas within the city limits. There are deer and turkeys that live along the new section and they seem just as interested in the human visitors as we are in them.

I spoke with Spearfish’s director of public works, Cheryl Johnson, and she indicated that this new section of trail is just one of many projects that will help expand the current trail system.

Johnson shared that the city recently entered into a long-term lease agreement with South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks to oversee a nature area at the north end of Spearfish Canyon. The 300 -plus acre nature area will potentially be used for new, non-motorized paths in the coming years. Johnson also said that there are plans for a new 18-hole disc golf course, which would be one of the most natural and secluded courses in the state.

I’m probably a bit biased since I live in Spearfish, but I think the nature trail system through town is one of the best in the region. Currently, the trail system runs roughly north to south, along Spearfish Creek, and provides a safe route for walkers, runners and bikers.

With the newest section of trail and plans in the works for future expansion, the Spearfish trail system has a lot going for it. I’m excited to see what develops with the new GF&P lease area as well.

With all of the possible additions planned, it should make for one of the best wildland-urban interface areas in the Black Hills. But, don’t just take my word for it; make a visit to Spearfish and see for yourself. I bet you’ll like what you find.