Forest Fall Foliage Information

Fall colors typically peak the last week of September, first week of October in the Black Hills. Below are a few places to keep in mind for fall color viewing areas on the Forest:

  • Northwestern Hills

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    Fall colors near Sundance, WY on the Bearlodge Ranger District. (Photo by Shelby Brunson, Black Hills National Forest/USDA Forest Service)

  • Northern Hills

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    Fall colors near Spearfish, SD on the Northern Hills Ranger District. (Photo by Kassidy Grubb, Black Hills National Forest/USDA Forest Service)

  • Central Hills

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    Fall colors near Rapid City, SD on the Mystic Ranger District. (Photo by Lou Howey, Black Hills National Forest/USDA Forest Service)

  • Southern Hills

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    Fall colors near Custer, SD & Newcastle, WY on the Hell Canyon Ranger District. (Photo by Dakota Baker, Black Hills National Forest/USDA Forest Service)

Feature ~ Fall Scenic Drives

  • Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

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    Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is renowned for its natural beauty and history framed by towering limestone canyon walls.

  • Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

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    Named for South Dakota's former governor and US Senator, the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway offers 70 miles of outstanding sights including Mount Rushmore, The Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road and Custer State Park.

A Few Fall Driving Safety Tips:

  •   * Watch for wildlife. Wildlife can run along and across roadways without notice.

  •   * Make sure you observe the rules of the roads such as posted speed limits and no passing zones.

  •   * Park your vehicle in designated parking/rest areas.

  •   * When parking along roadways, make sure you are not impeding traffic or blocking gates.

 

The Black Hills National Forest hopes everyone enjoys this year’s fall color viewing!