Black Hills: The Stage for Outdoor Recreation throughout the Year Golf
The Black Hills National Forest and the area immediately surrounding Sturgis is riddled with scenic trails for a variety of skill levels. The terrains vary from heavily wooded forest to groves of oak and aspen. There are grassy meadows ideal for a family picnic and scenic outlooks perfect for pictures. Visit page 23 for a trail map and information on the trail system or page 15 to learn about the world-class racing taking place here.
Photography
Off-Roading
The area provides excellent opportunities to photograph all types of wildlife including deer, turkey, buffalo, mountain sheep and elk. You may be lucky enough to spot a mountain lion enjoying a nap on some rocky cliff in the pines. Both Vanocker and Boulder Canyons offer majestic views of foliage and rock formations. Or visit the almost mystical Bear Butte rising from the prairie grasses east of Sturgis.
With access points to many of the Black Hills National Forest motor-vehicle use trails just minutes from Sturgis, you can take your ATV or 4-wheeler exploring the Hills. Feeling especially adventurous? Try rock-crawling through some of the rocky, winch-mandated trails in the area.
Camping Camping opportunities in the Sturgis area abound. From traditional (and minimalistic) camping in the forest to cozy cabins at the local campgrounds, we offer it all. Many areas of the Black Hills National Forest can be used for overnight camping (check with the Forest Service for specific areas.)
Black Hills Trails
Black Hills Trails
The Black Hills National Forest regional offices have official forest service maps and motor vehicle use maps available. The maps provide information for all Black Hills National Forest area trails which can be used for various off-road vehicles. You can pick up the map while you’re purchasing your use permit which is required for all off-road vehicles.
The Black Hills National Forest and the area surrounding Sturgis is riddled with scenic trails for a variety of skill levels.
South Dakota Tourism
If you’re a fan of golf, take time to play nine holes at the Boulder Canyon Country Club. Open to the public, this course sits just a few miles west of downtown Sturgis. Situated at the edge of the Black Hills National Forest this course offers challenges and world-class views. Or visit Elkhorn Ridge Golf Club in Spearfish off I-90 at Exit 17 offering a 9-hole par 36 course with hidden canyons, elevated tees and broad sloping greens.
At Bear Butte Lake and Dalton Lake, visitors can camp for a minimal fee. Both have specified camp sites and limited facilities. Fort Meade Recreation area also offers campsites with easy access to trails and space for horses. There are also many State and National campgrounds available throughout the Black Hills. For those with a more plush idea of “roughing it,” Sturgis has many private campgrounds offering a variety of amenities. See the Accommodations list in the directory of this magazine to find one that’s right for you.
Hunting South Dakota and the Black Hills are filled with a variety of wildlife. To manage and maintain healthy populations,
Fishing is a year-around sport in South Dakota and the Black Hills. hunting has been a popular activity for both locals and visitors for generations. In the Black Hills and around Sturgis, there are designated seasons for deer, antelope, elk, turkey, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, mountain lion and various small game. If you’re interested, visit gfp.sd.gov for more information.
Fishing Fishing is a year-around sport in South Dakota and the Black Hills. Bear Butte Lake, Fort Meade Reservoir, Lions Club Pond and Dalton Lake are all located within just minutes of Sturgis. If you prefer fly fishing, there are beautiful streams not far from Sturgis that our elusive trout seem to thrive in.
Ice Fishing Many people have never experienced fishing except during the summer. Ice fishing is a fantastic winter sport and an excellent family activity. Popular ice fishing locations near Sturgis include Pactola Reservoir, Dalton Lake, Orman Dam, and Bear Butte Lake. Always make sure the ice is thick enough before walking or driving on it: at least 6 inches for walking and 10 inches for driving. Areas that are dark are not thick enough.
www.SturgisAreaChamber.com 2014 Visitors Guide & Directory ~ 17
Outdoors
Hiking, Mountain-Biking & Trail Running