Topping out at 5,760 feet, Crow Peak is the English translation of the Sioux name for the peak, “Paha Karitukateyapi,” which means “the hill where the Crows were killed.” The name stems from a battle between Sioux and Crow American Indians in which the Sioux were victorious. Crow Peak is 6.5 mile out and back located on the western side of Spearfish, South Dakota. .
With over 1500 feet in elevation gain I would rate this hike as intermediate. In comparison to Black Elk Peak (another popular hike in the Black Hills), I would say that Crow Peak is slightly more strenuous. The trailhead is located about 4 miles down Higgins Gulch Road. Once you make it to the parking lot the trail can be a little tricky to find but look for the gate and you’ll be on your way.
Despite all our years of living in the Black Hills my husband and I had actually never done this hike which is crazy because this is probably one of the best hikes in the Hills. The Black Hills are known as a biological crossroads, as plants that typically only grow in the east or west grow together in this region. The first half of this hike is a prime example of this as the forest is filled with ponderosa pine, hop hornbeam, bur oak, birch and aspen. Although this area has been devastated by two wildfires in the past 8 years (one in 2012 and the other in 2016) the forest is regenerating itself and coming back to life.
The first two miles of this hike are relatively easy as the trail gradually winds around the south-side of the mountain. Around the 2.25 mile mark the trail turns north as it begins to switchback up the western slope. Just below the summit ridge the trail crosses a steep talus slope, at this point the forest opens up and you are treated to a spectacular view of Wyoming.
At the 3 mile mark the trail finally reaches the ridge-line of Crow Peak. From here the trail climbs another 115 feet to the summit. Due to past fires the eastern ridge Crow Peak is covered in snowbrush, giving the air a distinct cinnamon smell. The summit offers hikers a magnificent view of the Northern Black Hills including, Terry Peak, Bear Butte, and Spearfish Peak.
Romping Tramps 