Motorcycle leaned up against the wall of a town shop

3‑Night / 4‑Day Waterfall‑Focused Itinerary

Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Deadwood is the perfect base for exploring some of South Dakota’s most stunning waterfalls. Just a short drive along the scenic Spearfish Canyon, you’ll find cascading falls set against dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and winding streams.


This 4-day itinerary guides you to the best spots - including Roughlock Falls, Spearfish Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls - complete with trail details, parking tips, and seasonal advice, making it easy to plan a nature-filled adventure that combines scenic drives, easy hikes, andunforgettable photo opportunities.


Most waterfalls near Deadwood are along Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway (US‑14A) in the Black Hills, about 30–45 minutes south of Deadwood.

Day 1 – Arrival in Deadwood & Local Sights

Motorcycle parked with beautiful orange haze sky in the background

Afternoon

Arrive in Deadwood and check into your Deadwood Connections accommodations. Then, go stroll historic downtown.

Longhorn skull displayed in an old museum

Early Evening

Visit Mount Moriah Cemetery for sunset (history + views).

Large, stuffed burger on plate with drinks at restaurant

Night

 Treat yourself to a memorable meal at Legend's Steakhouse in Deadwood, where hearty bison and steak dishes pair perfectly with a historic atmosphere


Then check out the nightlife, or ghost walks

Day 2 – Spearfish Canyon Waterfalls

Motorcycle riding quickly down a clear road, surrounded bywilderness

Morning

Drive Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway south. First stop: Bridal Veil Falls (~30–40 min from Deadwood).


Make sure to take photos from the viewing platform!


Then, Continue to Spearfish Falls (easy ~1mi hike). Pack snacks.




Ground view of Mount Rushmore in SD on a beautiful, sunny fall day

Afternoon

Head further into Spearfish canyon to Roughlock Falls - longer trail time, bring a picnic & eat by the area near the Creek.

Sandwich with fries on plates with drinks at restaurant

Evening

After your adventures, enjoy dining at the Latchstring Restaurant in Spearfish offers homestyle comfort food just minutes from the trails


Then return to your Deadwood Connections accommodations & rest up for the next day

Day 3 – Spearfish Canyon + Devil’s Bathtub

Overhead view of a winding mountain road in the midwest on a cloudy day

Morning

Drive deeper into Spearfish Canyon — enjoy scenic pull‑offs.


Optional add‑on: Devil’s Bathtub hike (~1.5–2 mi, moderate with creek crossings). 

Motorcycles parked on the street on a quiet night

Afternoon

Stop at overlooks, or local breweries/wineries on return.

Pub chicken and wings in a basket with fries and dip

Evening

Sunset photography back in Deadwood, or casual hike near Spearfish (e.g., Lookout Mountain).


Back in Deadwood, enjoy Saloon No. 10 – Iconic Deadwood saloon offering classic American fare and a slice of history; casual and fun.

Day 4 – Scenic Drive & Departure

Motorcycle parked in the middle of a road in between bright green trees

Morning

Check out of your Deadwood Connections accommodations.



Then have a morning drive to Iron Mountain Road / Needles Highway (if open seasonally).

Crazy Horse Memorial displayed in Black Hills SD

Afternoon

Quick hike at Sylvan Lake or Short Loop near Custer State Park.

Slider burgers with beer on table at a bar and grill

Late Afternoon

Return home via Rapid City or surrounding attractions (Mount Rushmore ~2‑3 hrs from Deadwood).


Seasonal & Safety Tips

  • Best Seasons

    Late Spring to early Fall offers best waterfall volume and hiking conditions.


    Summer gives full scenic drives and wildlife viewing.

  • Winter Considerations

    Spearfish Canyon Road may remain open, but snow/ice make roadside and trails much more hazardous, and some service roads are closed mid‑Dec to March.

  • What to Pack

    • Layers (weather can change quickly)
    • Good hiking shoes
    • Water + snacks
    • Camera & binoculars
Person driving motorcycle throughout the black hills with pine trees and hills in the background

Waterfall Descriptions


1) Roughlock Falls (Spearfish Canyon Nature Area)

  • Distance from Deadwood: ~20 miles / ~30 min drive (toward Spearfish/Lead)
  • Trail: Paved, easy walk from parking — mostly flat with viewing platforms. Typical out‑and‑back ~1–2 miles round‑trip depending on route.
  • Parking to Falls: Only about 0.5 mi / 0.8 km walk if parked right at the falls lot (or ~1 mi along the creek if starting from farther lot).
  • Best Season: April through October for full water flow and warm weather. Winter access on the main trail is possible but road is closed mid‑Dec–March; trail still open at your own risk
  • Coordinates: ~44.3499° N, –103.9430° W

2) Spearfish Falls

  • Distance from Deadwood: ~22 miles / ~35 min
  • Trail: Easy hike (mostly forest path and gentle grade); about 0.7–1.5 miles round‑trip depending on route you choose.
  • Parking to Falls: Trailhead is right off Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway near Latchstring Restaurant and Spearfish Canyon Lodge.
  • Best Season: Spring–Fall are best for water volume and traill conditions. In winter, icy conditions can make access difficult.
  • Coordinates: ~44.345° N, –103.937° W (est. based on byway location)

3) Bridal Veil Falls (Spearfish Canyon)

  • Distance from Deadwood: ~25–26 miles / ~35–40 min
  • Ease: Very easy roadside stop — view from a platform right near Hwy 14A with short, optional creek approach.
  • Best Season: Spring / early summer brings highest water flow; flows decrease later in summer.
  • Coordinates: ~44.4170° N, –103.8808° W



⚠️ Thunderhead Falls near Rapid City / US‑16 area is reported closed and not reliable as a public waterfall destination; avoid planning it as part of this itinerary.