If you love hiking and being out doors, then you already know the rewards of hiking go far beyond just the health benefits of the exercise. It is the scenery around you and the feeling of accomplishment at the end of your hike. Or maybe you are the type of person that likes to go on vacation and discover something not many people before you have seen. Well if you are vacationing in Rapid City then I suggest you visit the Boulder Hill Fire Tower.
Boulder Hill is a large rock formation just outside of Rapid City and up until it was destroyed, a forest fire lookout tower sat atop it. The hike up to the base of the rock formation is a little over a half mile and winds you through the woods surrounding it. During the spring and summer many different types of wild flowers can be found here.
Once you get to the base of the formation it offers you two different ways to the top. If you came with climbing gear and are looking for a vertical accent you can climb the sheer face of the rock. There are plenty of holds but the height of the rock should provide a challenge to even the most experienced climber. If you are looking for a little easier way up you can go up the other side. I have gone up this way multiple times, and while I wouldn’t recommend trying to do it in flip flops, it is rather safe. There will be times you do have to “climb” but there is a fairly easy path up.
The real treat is at the top though. No, it isn’t the foundation of the tower that once stood there. It is the panoramic view of Rapid City and the surrounding areas. Not only can you see the city itself but in the distance you can see Mount Rushmore and with the help of binoculars you can peer clear out in to the Badlands.
Though there is evidence that a few people have climbed this formation, there isn’t a lot. You truly feel that it is quite possible that you are the first person at its apex, and it is safe to say most other tourists have never stood where you are. Heck, most people that live in town here have never heard of it.
Another great thing about the climb is that it is free. My wife and I live on the same income as most of the rest of Americans ages 20 – 30, so anything free is worth trying, but even if there were a charge I would pay it. The view is gorgeous, the hike is exhilarating and it gives us the chance to spend the day together doing something fun.
To reach Boulder Hill Fire Tower travel approximately 12 miles west on Highway 385 to Silver Mountain Road. Turn right and travel 100 feet to Boulder Hill Road. Turn left and travel approximately one mile to park, or take Sheridan Lake Road past Red Rocks, eventually Boulder Hill Road will be on your left. Follow it up to the start of the path to the formation.
I hope you all enjoy the hike and the climb as much as I have, it truly is one of my favorite places to visit, and if you’re lucky you may even see a bald eagle in flight.
