With a cool name and astonishing scenery, Devil’s Bathtub is one of the more popular hikes in the Spearfish area. The highlight of the hike is the “bathtub” at the end.
The Details
Hike Distance: Officially, it is 1.6 mi (2.57 km) out and back. However, if you wander around and zig-zag like me, it’s closer to 2 mi (3.22 km)
Hike Duration: I hiked it in roughly an hour, although I didn’t hang out in the water. Plan on 1-2 hours, depending on if you stick around a bit near the bathtub portion.
Hike Difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need to cross the water numerous times. If it has recently rained or snowed, things will be more difficult with the slippery rocks. Make sure to use caution and look out for slick spots.
Hike Elevation Gain: 243 ft (74 m)
Parking: There is a large gravel parking lot to use. When driving on Highway 14A, look for the signs indicating the parking lot. It’s near the brick Homestake Mining Co. Hydro Electric Plant building.
Cost: Free
Coordinates to Parking and Trailhead: Type in Devil’s Bathtub into Google Maps. The location takes you slightly past the parking lot and puts you near the Hydro Electric Plant building. However, you can see the lot from there. The trailhead can be accessed at the NE corner of the parking lot.
How to get there
If going here, I suggest arriving early in the morning to beat the rush. On the weekends, you’ll find the lot is often packed in the afternoon. The hiking experience will be more enjoyable if you can avoid the crowds. Drive through Spearfish Canyon Southbound, and you’ll spot a brown sign saying “Devil’s Bathtub Parking ¼ Mile Ahead,” continue straight past the turn for Cleopatra Pl. You’ll spot another brown sign with a parking symbol and arrow pointing ahead. Follow the highway for a short distance more, and the lot will be on your left-hand side. If you drive past a brick building, you’ve gone too far.
Hiking Devil’s Bathtub
Unfortunately, there aren’t signs indicating the beginning of the trail, but you’ll find a dirt trail between the creek and highway, which begins in the Northeast corner of the parking lot.
Continue walking this path until you get to a gravel road with a “No Parking Fire Lane” sign. Take a right and cross the bridge. Eventually, a brown and white Trail Etiquette sign followed by a series of large rocks and a Designated Trail sign appears. Meander along the trail, and after the first creek crossing, you’ll see another Designated Trail sign to your left. This sign will be the last of the trail markings. From this point, follow the creek, and eventually, you’ll arrive at Devil’s Bathtub.
No parking sign. Turn right and head towards the bridge. 
Bridge to cross 
Trail etiquette sign 
First designated trail sign after crossing bridge 
Designated trail sign after crossing creek the first time
Several trees, rock formations, and other foliage make up the surroundings throughout the trail. The path has double-digit creek crossings, so be prepared for the possibility of getting wet. These crossings are over a mixture of rocks and logs. Be especially cautious if it recently rained because the rocks can get slippery. Also, note the weather for the day because rising water levels will make it more challenging to cross if there is a heavy storm.
The path isn’t that difficult aside from the creek crossings and a scramble near the end. If you’re in the Spearfish area, this is a must-do hike. It has a lot to offer between the beautiful scenery, especially in the fall, and the payoff at the end to take a plunge.
You can check out the recording of my hike here.
Looking for other hikes in Spearfish Canyon? Check out these:
