Lookout Peak
Spearfish, South Dakota is situated in a valley with a northwest-southeast axis. Lookout Peak is the most prominent peak of the northeast skyline of Spearfish. The summit is owned by the city of Spearfish and is part of the 756-acre Lookout Mountain Park. The trail is mostly an old service road that also sees bicycle traffic. The hike should be rated intermediate, due to a little scrambling near the summit, plus the steepness of one section. For the most part, the trail surface is good. The views from the summit offer great views, especially of Crow Peak to the southwest, Terry Peak to the south, and Bear Butte and Elkhorn Peak to the east. The trail has a few shady spots, but enough open sun that hot weather hiking could threaten dehydration. There are rattlesnake warnings, so caution is warranted. There is a little over 500 feet of elevation gain over this 1-mile trail.
To reach the trailhead for the Lookout Mountain Trail, take exit 14 from Interstate 90. Go north on Sandstone Hills Drive to Branding Iron Drive. Turn right there and go to Pony Express Lane. Take a left there and drive the short distance to the end of the street, where you will find a few parking spots. There are advisory signs at the trailhead. A trail route map is posted below:
To reach the trailhead for the Lookout Mountain Trail, take exit 14 from Interstate 90. Go north on Sandstone Hills Drive to Branding Iron Drive. Turn right there and go to Pony Express Lane. Take a left there and drive the short distance to the end of the street, where you will find a few parking spots. There are advisory signs at the trailhead. A trail route map is posted below:
The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him. Nahum 1:7