Near Far East / Founders Valley  Loop
Looking back on the first climb of the trail.
Near Far East / Founders Valley  Loop
Looking up the trail between boulders.
Near Far East / Founders Valley  Loop
Looking back down the trail and out toward downtown.
Near Far East / Founders Valley  Loop
Looking back towards the trail across the ravine.
Near Far East / Founders Valley  Loop
Looking back down the trail, and up the ravine.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Far East / Founders Valley Loop

4.5 (2 Ratings)
Lots of sharp turns, switchbacks, rocks, steep but short ups/downs, and great views, right in the middle of the city!
2.9
mi
Distance
307
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Views

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.86mi
Distance
307ft
Elevation Gain
307ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
3,434ft
High Point
3,244ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
This is a 3.1-mile loop that combines two trails (Far East and Founders Valley). The trail is very well-marked and there are many other trails that intersect this one, so many other routes can be improvised.
History & Background
This route is in the privately owned Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park, which features over 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails open to the public! There are many other trails in the Park, and many fun routes that can be created by combining them. For more on the park, see https://www.visitrapidcity.com/things-to-do/attractions/chuck-lien-family-park-hanson-larsen-memorial-park

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
John Pearson