Spearfish Canyon

Question

Staying in Rafter J Bar in Hill City this week. Heading up US85 to Medora next week. I am wondering about towing north through Spearfish Canyon (14A) on my way to Belle Fourche. My outfit is in my signature. Any problems towing this canyon?

Incidentally, the major street demo/construction on Mt. Rushmore Rd/US16 through Rapid City heading to and from Mt. Rushmore is a nightmare. That's one reason for heading up north US85 to exit the Black Hills

alabama_jim · Answer

I don't recall any severe curves or hills that would cause a problem.  I have driven the canyon three times, but not towing.  It is a beautiful drive; waterfalls are nice and there is a spot where some scenes in "Dances With Wolves" was filmed.

john_burke · Answer

Just go north on 385 to Deadwood, get on 85 to the interstate. Just 7-8 miles west to 85 north. Takes you all the way to Belfield.
To go through Spearfish Canyon you would have to backtrack to Custer, over to Newcastle. About 110 miles compared with 55 going north on 385.
385 is a good road, I have pulled my 35ft TT over it several times. The canyon I would not tow through. Way too slow, both for you and those following.

jrp · Answer

I agree, I always used 385-85 to Bell Fourche.
Its certainly possible to tow through Spearfish Canyon, but sections of it are very twisty and much better enjoyed on a Harley or in your car. You'll only be able to go 25-30 on many of the curves, where everyone else will be going 55 and passing you in the middle of those curves.

dieseltruckdriv · Answer

There is absolutely no problem taking the canyon. It is maybe 5 miles out of the way, and it is an easy downhill all the way from 85 to Spearfish. The speed limit is 35, so it is not a fast drive anyway.

I don't know what your rig is, but the road is used by semis, logging trucks, and rvs, so you will be fine.

I just checked Google, and it is 6 miles further to Belle Fourche via Spearfish Canyon as opposed to going through Deadwood to I-90.

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Spearfish Canyon

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