Spearfish, South Dakota

Spearfish is the quietly beautiful gateway to the Black Hills. Three peaks surround the little valley at the mouth of spectacular Spearfish Canyon. But, the choice site and a four-season climate that was more gentle than on the Great Plains just to the east didn’t cause the first settlement. It was gold. One of the world’s great Mother Lodes was found in the mountains above Deadwood Gulch a few miles to the south. In 1876, settlement began here. No gold was discovered in Spearfish, but by 1877 (with the end of Indian hostilities) the town’s growth was assured as the peaceful alternative to the lusty nearby boom towns.

Today, the legacy of quiet, steady growth is apparent in the university, opera house and fish hatchery that still contribute to the town’s charm. Black Hills gold is featured here in handcrafted jewelry that is sold with other regional collectibles downtown. A renowned Passion Play, and a wealth of recreation opportunities for all seasons, further ensure an improving number and mix of restaurants and lodgings.

For more information, check with the local Chamber of Commerce.