Hike around Lookout Mountain

To get to the trail for Lookout Mountain there are 2 trailheads. One trailhead is just a few blocks from downtown on Nevada St., the other trailhead is on the East side of town. This post is using the Nevada St. Trailhead as the starting point. From this trailhead to the top of Lookout Mountain it is 1.2 miles and 860 feet of elevation gain. 

Once you get to the trailhead you will see a map, that shows there are multiple loops that can be hiked. So, it might be a good idea to take a picture of the map so you are aware of what loop you want to take and which fork of the trail to use. If you want to go to the peak and back you can do that without taking any loops, you can make your hike as long or as short as you would like. The loops range from 1.9 miles long to 7.3 miles long. Something to watch out for is there are multiple cow trails that intersect as well, but as long as you have a general idea of which direction you need to go, you should be able to find your route easy enough. Some of the trail loops allow mountain bikes, so beware of bikers and hikers. 

In the warmer month beware of snakes, there are occasional rattle snakes found in the Spearfish area. There might be cows out ranging as well, but they are harmless. 

Be prepared as weather can change quickly, and there are often thunderstorms that roll in during the warm summer afternoons. Enjoy the area and please use LNT ethics.