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Crossroads At The Foot Of The Hills by AZLOT69  History The discovery of gold in the Black Hills of South Dakota started a firestorm of opportunities for entrepreneurs. The Deadwood Stage had a stop and barn at this location for overnights and refreshing animals. Hence the name. In 1890 the Black Hills Railroad Company ran a narrow gauge railroad up Stagebarn Canyon To Lead and Deadwood for supplies. The railroad ceased operations in 1929. In 1935 surveyors located a Crystal Cave complex in Stagebarn Canyon which was open to tours until it closed in 2007. Stagebarn Canyon also serves as an entry or exit to Botany Canyon. Hike This is a rails to trails project completed after 2007. The hike is open to bicycles and or hikers. Go around the gate marked no motorized vehicles. Being an old railroad grade it's all up hill but at a mild grade. This is a great hike for solitude. This is not a popular hike so seeing anyone else is unlikely. Thick vegetation surrounds spectacular rock formations. You have to admire the work it took to create pathways thru the rock for the railroad. Continue to the end to see artifacts from an earlier era and the ruins of Stagebarn Crystal Cave. The cave itself has an iron door and lock but it is in a very interesting setting. When you can't take it anymore return the way you came. Check out the Triplog. Gate Policy: If a gate is closed upon arrival, leave it closed after you go through. If it is open, leave it open. Leaving a closed gate open may put cattle in danger. Closing an open gate may cut them off from water. Please be respectful, leave gates as found. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.
One-Way Notice This hike is listed as One-Way. When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
