Sturgis Fall Vacation Guide
Autumn is a great time to experience Sturgis and the Northern Black Hills. As the leaves start changing around town and along the roads leading into the Hills, it’s the perfect time to slow down and enjoy the area. Take a drive through Vanocker Canyon, spend some time downtown, grab lunch at a local restaurant, or find a trail and enjoy the cooler weather.
What to Expect
Fall in Sturgis is a little different from the busy summer months. Things are generally quieter, making it a great time to take your time and enjoy the area. You can spend the day exploring the Black Hills and come back to town to enjoy local restaurants, shops and attractions. October also brings fall events and activities, so be sure to check the Chamber’s event calendar while planning your visit.
When to Visit
If you’re coming to the Black Hills to see the fall colors, September and October are generally the best months to plan your trip. The exact timing changes from year to year depending on weather and temperatures, so there isn’t one specific weekend that guarantees peak color.
As the season gets started, you’ll usually see the higher elevations begin changing first. The color then works its way through the Hills, with October often being a great time to explore the areas around Sturgis. Don’t forget about everything happening in town during the fall - our Sturgis Fall Festival makes a great trip highlight!
Where to Stay
Sturgis is a convenient place to stay while exploring the Northern Black Hills. You can spend the day out on the road enjoying the fall colors and come back to town for a meal, a drink, or a little shopping.
Whether you’re looking for a hotel, campground, vacation rental, or another type of lodging, you’ll find numerous options in and around Sturgis. To view all of our recommended accommodation options, including campgrounds, click here! We offer everthing from boutique, historic downtown hotels to budget stays and rustic campouts.
Where to Go
You don’t have to travel far from Sturgis to find great fall scenery. One of the best parts of visiting this time of year is being able to get in the car, pick a direction, and explore. If you're looking for a little inspiration, here are some of our favorite spots to check out:
Boulder Canyon
Head west from Sturgis through Boulder Canyon toward Deadwood for another scenic option. You can make a full day out of it by exploring Deadwood and other nearby communities before heading back to Sturgis. Don't miss The Canyon Grille for a scenic lunch or dinner.
Vanocker Canyon
Vanocker Canyon is one of the closest scenic drives to Sturgis and is an easy choice if you don’t want to spend the entire day in the hills. The winding road takes you from Junction Avenue in Sturgis south through the Black Hills towards Nemo, with plenty of opportunities to stop along the way. Don't miss Belle Joli' Winery and vineyards on the southern edge of town.
Sturgis Trail System
Cooler temperatures make fall a great time to explore the trails around Sturgis. Whether you want a quick walk or a longer hike, there are plenty of ways to get outside and enjoy the season. Sturgis Trail System offers over 50 miles of non-motorized, pristine trails south of Sturgis with trailheads accessible directly in Sturgis city limits.
Spearfish Canyon
Spearfish Canyon is another popular choice for fall colors, and Sturgis is an excellent base to start your journey! Head towards Deadwood through Boulder Canyon, onward to Lead ("leed"), and take Spearfish Canyon to the town of Spearfish. Take your time driving through the canyon, stop at some of the scenic areas, and enjoy the changing trees along the way. Then, it's just a quick drive back to your stay in Sturgis.
What to Bring
Fall in the Black Hills can mean cool mornings, warmer afternoons, and chilly evenings, so it’s best to be prepared for a little bit of everything. We recommend dressing in layers and bringing comfortable shoes if you plan on walking or hiking. A jacket or sweatshirt is a good idea, especially if you’ll be out early in the morning or staying out into the evening.
And don’t forget your camera- or at least make sure your phone has plenty of storage. You’ll probably find a few places worth stopping for a picture along the way.
Fall Adventure Packing List:
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- Jacket or sweatshirt
- Extra layers
- Water
- Sunglasses
- Camera or Phone
- Warmer clothes for the evening
- A cup of coffee or cocoa from one of our excellent shops!
A few things to keep in mind.
Fall weather can change quickly in the Black Hills, so check the forecast before heading out. Some scenic routes and attractions may also have seasonal hours, so it’s always a good idea to check ahead. And if you’re not sure where to go to what to do, come see us! The Sturgis Chamber is here to help visitors find places to stay, eat, shop, and explore.