Rock Maze, SD

Overview
The Black Hills is home to many commercial attractions all of which can put a pretty big dent in your pocket. This hike/climb can be very entertaining at the cost to drive there. There is a four dollar charge day use to park at the Steamboat Rock recreation area but you can save the four dollars by parking just east and across Nemo Road from the Steamboat entrance. This is the unmarked trail head anyhow, but there is only room for 2-3 cars.


Hike/Scramble/Boulder/Climb
From the trail head follow the footpath southeast, shortly you will see a rock ledge in the trees ahead of you. This granite rock ledge goes for about a quarter mile. You may want to follow the path around the right and do a loop around the rock ledge to orient yourself to your surroundings. There are several entry points to the maze and once you enter, it can be quite disorienting. Narrow passage ways abound. You easily spend several hours practicing skills involved with climbing. Stemming and chimneying, opportunities abound. Most boulders are only about ten feet high. Great place for a family outing and picnic that's sure to create lasting memories.

2018-08-17 AZLOT69