Sheridan Lake: Spring Creek Trailhead

The Spring Creek Trailhead is located 0.4 miles south of Sheridan Lake Road on Forest Service Road 390, about 14 miles southwest of Rapid City. It serves as access for both the Centennial Trail and the nationally designated Flume Trail (#50), and is the most popular starting point for the Spring Creek Loop — a 3.6 to 4.5-mile moderate loop taking most hikers 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. From the trailhead, the trail crosses Spring Creek on a footbridge and follows the creek through a scenic canyon, crossing up to four narrow suspension bridges. Highlights include two historic mining tunnels carved during the 1880s gold boom — bring a flashlight for the longer one. The trail climbs to an overlook above Sheridan Lake dam, with a stone staircase leading to the best views of the lake. The trailhead also serves as the eastern access point for the full 11-mile Flume Trail toward Coon Hollow. Download a trail map before heading out — junctions can be tricky. Parking available. No restrooms on site. Dogs welcome on leash.