The series of falls that comprise Roughlock Falls just west of Savoy in Spearfish Canyon has always been a pleasant place. With recent improvements by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks, it's become a superb destination for folks who enjoy the beauty of the Black Hills of South Dakota. This photo was snapped in late morning on an August afternoon in 2008.

There is ample parking adjacent to the falls and just down the road. When visitors park right at the entry to Roughlock Falls, this is the first walkway they'll approach -- and that's the first of numerous picnic tables that have been added to the area.

For us, Roughlock Falls has become a superb place to picnic and hike. It's year-round beauty is hard to beat.

The upper falls provide visitors with views comparable to Bridal Veil Falls, farther down Spearfish Canyon.

You may click on any of these photographs in order to see a larger image.

The Game, Fish and Parks Department in South Dakota take a lot of heat over a variety of problems, ranging from park management issues to mountain lion seasons.

Their foresight and good work at Roughlock Falls deserves accolades from the adjacent communities and the many visitors who've come to enjoy the site.

Just down the canyon from Bridal Veil Falls is this pond on Spearfish Creek. Above it stands one of wooded limestone formations that comprise much of the Black Hills.

Taken on Sunday morning April the 6th, 2008, just after entering the U.S. National Forest at the foot of Spearfish Canyon.

The morning started with overcast skies and freezing temperatures. By mid-day, sunshine broke through and temperatures climbed into the 40s.

The snow and ice -- combined with cloudy skies -- render Bridal Veil Falls almost indistinguishable from the surrounding canyons.

Looking north across Spearfish Creek midway up the canyon. If you'd like to see a larger image, simply click on the photograph.

The same formation from a slightly different view along Highway 14.