Bridal Veil Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls tumbles through a narrow granite chute in Spearfish Canyon, offering the classic lace-like cascade that makes it one of the canyon's most photographed stops. Easily reached from the road, the falls are managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Black Hills National Forest, so you can enjoy that iconic view with minimal effort—there’s a designated roadside parking area that puts the falls within easy sight for visitors of all abilities. If you want to stretch your legs beyond the overlook, the nearby USFS Big Hill Loop C (Trail #72C) provides a more immersive forest experience. Camping is convenient for multi-day visitors too—the Northern Hills-Spearfish campground lies about 9.48 km away, keeping the canyon’s trails and viewpoints within easy reach for an overnight trip.
The Setting
Bridal Veil Falls sits at 4,203 feet within Black Hills National Forest, fed by the Spearfish Creek, in the mountains of South Dakota.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Spearfish Falls, the tallest waterfall in South Dakota at 47 feet, lies 5.0 miles to the southwest.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Big Hill Loop C (#72C), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
BIG HILL LOOP C #72C
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
4.35 miTrail Description
No hiking is required to view Bridal Veil Falls; the waterfall is visible from the roadside and accessible from a designated parking area. For hikers seeking a longer route, the U.S. Forest Service lists Big Hill Loop C (Trail #72C) on the Black Hills National Forest. Trail #72C is classified as Class 3, has a native-material (NAT) surface, and typically grades between 12–20%. USFS GIS mapping shows the loop at about 4.35 miles, while a commonly described out-and-back option is 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain (moderate difficulty).
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bridal Veil Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bridal Veil Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Bridal Veil Falls is during the spring and early summer when the water flow is strongest. Fall is also a great time to visit due to the vibrant autumn foliage in Spearfish Canyon.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Black Hills National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious of traffic when stopping along the roadside. During winter, icy conditions may make the area slippery and hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
47 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 79 years of record
4.95 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Bridal Veil Falls is located along Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 14A), approximately 6 miles south of Spearfish, South Dakota. The waterfall is visible from the road, making it easily accessible.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small roadside parking area near the waterfall, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Elevation
4203 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.417029° N, -103.880958° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty. Be cautious of traffic when stopping along the roadside.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Iron Wood Lodge
The Lodge at Deadwood
Travelodge by Wyndham Spearfish
Hampton Inn Lead
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Northern Hills-Spearfish
5.9 miles away · 0 sites
The Northern Hills Ranger District covers the northern portion of the Black Hills on the South Dakota side. Spearfish has nearby access to over 300 miles of snowmobile trails, groomed and ungroomed cross-country ski trails, a 100 mile long hiking trail (Centennial Trail) and many other trails, a 110 mile long biking, hiking and horseback trail (Mickelson Trail), and 2 downhill ski areas (ski areas are near Deadwood, SD - 15 miles away).
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls in Spearfish Canyon, such as Roughlock Falls and Spearfish Falls. The Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway offers stunning views and hiking opportunities.
Wildlife
Visitors may spot deer, birds, and other wildlife native to the Black Hills region.
Cities near Bridal Veil Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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