76 Trailhead

Located in the heart of the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, the '76 Trail is a short but legendary "lung-buster" that offers a massive payoff for a little sweat. Named in honor of the 1876 Gold Rush miners who once traveled these rugged paths, this trail is just under a mile each way but packs a punch with a steep, continuous ascent of about 1,000 feet. The path is well-maintained but narrow, winding through thick stands of ponderosa pine and birch as it climbs toward the canyon rim. The ultimate reward is Buzzard’s Roost, a limestone overlook that provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the canyon floor, the winding road below, and the towering walls of the Spearfish Canyon Lodge area. During the fall, this trail is one of the best seats in the house for witnessing the canyon’s transformation into a sea of vibrant golds and oranges. Because it is a vertical climb, the '76 Trail offers a sense of seclusion and perspective that you simply can't get from the canyon floor, making it a "must-do" for hikers looking for a quick, high-intensity challenge with a spectacular finish.