Backpack at Slate Creek

Hill City, South Dakota

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Distance

7 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Isaac Parsons

Slate Creek is a serene secluded area along a calmly flowing creek great for a day hike or an overnight backpacking trip.

About 11 miles North of Hill City on Horse Creek Road is Slate Creek Dam. Where the road crosses the dam there is a smaller road that leads to the Northwest, then about a half mile down the road ends in a parking area.

This area was known for its slate mining, and there is still some mining activity that goes on. A map at the trailhead explains that there are several spots where the creek crosses the trail but thankfully it is a maintained trail so there are plank bridge crossings. One of the main features of the hike is an old miner's cabin called Flannigan's Cabin.

Along the trail there are several neat meadows and also canyons where the hillsides close in. The creek winds through the area and pools up in some spots making for great fishing for brook trout.

The hike is a very easy hike, not much for elevation gain or loss. Along the way there are lots of spots readily available to camp and pitch a tent. The hike can be done in any season.

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Backpack at Slate Creek

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Backpack at Slate Creek Reviews

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Nearby

Hike the Deerfield Lake Trail to Slate Creek Convergence

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Backpack at Slate Creek

Details

Description

Download the Outbound mobile app

Features

Backpack at Slate Creek Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Hike the Deerfield Lake Trail to Slate Creek Convergence

Camp at Castle Creek Campground

Paddle Lake Pactola Reservoir

Fly Fish from the Rapid Creek Trailhead

Dakota Point at Sheridan Lake via the North Trail

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