Community Caves
Community Caves is an unique cave formation in Spearfish Canyon. The hike is around 1/2 mile long but it is rather steep, and can be dangerous especially in the winter when the creek is full of ice. The hike actually follows the creek leading up to the caves, and depending on the time of year, it can be quite treacherous. Even in the summer you need sturdy shoes and a hiking stick helps.
To get to Community Caves take the Spearfish Canyon Highway right out Spearfish. Near MM 13 there is a pullout for parking and once you park, cross the road and follow the path down to the stream. Look for the logs that cross the street and follow the trail up to the caves.
Where you park to start the hike.
At the sign that runs to the east of the parking lot, take the trail to the south that goes to Community Caves.
Start of the trail.
Crossing near the creek.
One of the ways to get across the creek.
We start to go up.
In the spring, summer, and fall the water comes down the path you are climbing to get to the top.
Obstacles.
First sight of Community Caves - almost to the top.
Under the caves looking out.
The trail to the caves in the winter- cross the river
Rope provided helps some when it’s icy.
Spearfish Canyon Road is way in the distance.
Very steep climb up
Depending on the time of year - can have a frozen waterfall.
Coming down the hill can be hard also especially in the winter due to all the ice buildup
