The Stratobowl Rim Trail is a simple hike near Rapid City that offers spectacular views of the Black Hills and a local, historical site. The Stratobowl is a great trail for a short hike. It’s only around one mile each way, so it’s amenable to almost any skill level.
Where is the Stratobowl?
The Stratobowl is located off Route 16, about a half-mile south of Old McDonald’s Farm. There is no roadside sign highlighting the trail, but there is an obvious parking area just off of Highway 16. If you’re there during daylight hours, it’s likely you’ll see other vehicles.
Hiking the Stratobowl
The path is comprised of simple, rolling hills on an old access road that traverses through pines and offers a prime opportunity for spotting deer and wild turkeys. A substantial logging operation was recently completed there (necessitated by pine beetle damage) so chances of viewing wildlife are now even more likely.
At the trail’s terminus, the road opens onto the rim and the yawning chasm that is the actual Stratobowl. From here, a valley formed by Spring Creek spreads out before you with homes dotting the canyon floor. You’ll also often see vultures soaring the thermals…below you!
Related posts: Willow Creek Trail Black Hills; Hiking the Boulder Hill Trail; Secret Spots in the Black Hills!; Coon Hollow Trail; Little Elk Creek Trail; Flume Loop Trail
The Stratobowl is also a prime place to watch the sun setting over the expanse of the Black Hills (and being so close to town it’s convenient for an evening hike). The name stems from the bowl-like shape of the valley created by the surrounding terrain. The north side of the rim can be reached from several other trails/old logging roads off of Sheridan Lake Road to the north (I discuss these options in this post.)
This setting was the site of high-altitude, manned balloon flights that took place in the ’30s (there are several monoliths on-site detailing these); it also currently hosts an annual hot air balloon launch. Be aware, you may hear the haunting sound of howling wolves when hiking. Do not be alarmed though, wolves are not usually found in the Hills and those you hear are safely contained at Bear County, just a few miles away.
This trail is perfect for an afternoon or after-work hike, or if you’re just looking for an easier place to take the kids or the dog that’s close to home. It’s gorgeous in almost any kind of weather and the trail is family-friendly. This is another great one to add to your list of fun hikes found near Rapid City!
Do you enjoy hiking the Stratobowl? Tell me about it in the comments!
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I have a client traveling to SD for the Memorial weekend for some camping and I recommended they check out your blog for recreational family activities to check out.
That’s awesome! Thanks!
Another informative, well written post by the talented tranquil trekker! Your posts are a great resource to those visiting the Black Hills area. Please keep them coming!
Thank you!