Boxelder Bluff

09/04/2026

Chinaman’s Wall – A Cool Hidden Spot Near Galena
A very interesting place to check out in the Black Hills is Chinaman’s Wall (also called China Wall or the Hercules Mine Wall). You used to be able to ride ATVs right up to it, but the final stretch is now closed to vehicles, which actually makes it a great short hike.
The views on the way up are amazing, and once you arrive the tall stone walls are quite a sight — impressive craftsmanship from an unfinished old mining project sitting right in the middle of the forest.

How to find it:
Head toward the historic town of Galena (accessible from Hwy 385 via Galena Road). Continue past the Vinegar Hill Cemetery area toward Lost Gulch / Butcher Gulch. You’ll reach a point where the road is blocked to vehicles — park there and hike the short remaining distance (roughly 600 yards) up to the walls.
It’s a unique little adventure that combines history, scenery, and a bit of exploration. Definitely worth the stop if you’re in the northern Hills!
Have you been to Chinaman’s Wall?

09/03/2026

There’s nothing quite like sitting outside and being fully immersed in the beauty of the Black Hills.
Take a deep breath, slow down, and let the views settle in around you — pine-covered hills, open sky, and that quiet that only the Hills can offer.
Moments like these are what make time at Boxelder Bluff so special.

09/02/2026

Interesting & Educational Stop Alert near Lead
If you’re in the Lead area, don’t miss the massive open pit that was once the Homestake Gold Mine. Right next to it is the visitor center, where you’ll learn how this former gold mine has been transformed into a world-class research facility (Free).
Scientists now work a mile underground studying dark matter, neutrinos, and other cutting-edge physics. It’s a fascinating look at how an old mining operation has become a hub for some of the most advanced science happening in the country.
They offer an affordable and very interesting tour. One of the highlights is seeing the enormous elevator hoists that lower researchers and equipment deep into the earth.
Highly recommended if you enjoy history, science, or just unique places in the Black Hills!
Have you visited the Homestake / Sanford Underground Research Facility yet?

09/01/2026

Cathedral Spires – One of the Best Hikes in the Black Hills
If you’re looking for a hike that feels completely different from most trails in the area, add Cathedral Spires to your list.
Located in Custer State Park along the Needles Highway, this trail takes you through forest and mountain scenery with incredible rock formations all around. The path has some rocky and uneven sections (wear good shoes!), but the views keep getting better the higher you climb.
Don’t miss the moment when you reach the base of the spires — standing right beneath those towering rock formations is unforgettable.
Trail Tip: Good hiking shoes or boots are a must. The rocky sections can be uneven and slippery in places.
This is one of those Black Hills hikes that feels unique and well worth the effort.

08/31/2026

Welcome to Boxelder Bluff!
I created this page to help travelers discover the quiet, beautiful, off‑the‑beaten‑path places in the Black Hills — the hidden overlooks, peaceful trails, wildlife moments, scenic drives, and local gems that most visitors miss.

I share photos and tips from my own adventures; plus ideas you can save for your next trip.

If you love discovering new places, avoiding crowds, and finding the magic between the tourist spots… you’re in the right place.

Share this page with your friends who like off-the-beaten path adventures!

08/30/2026

Below is just a sampling of some shots from last September around the Black Hills. This is an amazing time to visit... there are fewer crowds, and the pace just slows down to where you can truly enjoy the stunning beauty as the fall colors creep in. If you want to experience this kind of autumn magic, we still have a few fall openings -visit www.boxelderbluff.com and plan to be amazed!

08/29/2026

The kids will love seeing the action play out on Main street in Deadwood... another example of FREE entertainment available in the area.

In the wild and woolly days of the Old West, shootouts in Deadwood were a curious thing. This here town had a way of mixin’ lawlessness with a dash of civility that’d catch a fella off guard. In Deadwood, you might find a spat break out right in the middle of a bustling saloon or a gambling hall, and it’d get mighty tense in a hurry.

But here’s the kicker: more often than not, folks would settle their scores with a bit of talk instead of a shootin’ match. Yet, there was many a time when lead flew and folks hit the dirt. Those tales are as real as they come and Deadwood Alive is here to show ya.

Catch these curious stories Monday - Saturday at:
2:00 p.m. - “The Strange Tale of David Lunt” – Outlaw Square / Franklin Hotel

4:00 p.m. - “Showdown on Gold Street” – Big Dipper / Berg Jewelry

6:00 p.m. - “The Boone May/Prescott Web Altercation” – Wild Bill Bar / Celebrity
Hotel

Visit DeadwoodAlive.com to see the full summer schedule.
Thanks to Pine Girl Arts for the photo!
Outlaw Square Silverado Franklin Hotel and Casino Deadwood History
Historic Wild Bill Bar

08/28/2026

Fall is a spectator time to visit the Black Hills. Boxelder Bluff has some openings so you can be central to all the things to see and do. Here are some ideas.

Book your stay today!

08/27/2026

What will be your favorite Craft?

08/25/2026

FREE ALERT - Take advantage of this opportunity TODAY!