Cold Brook Canyon Trail

Journey down the Cold Brook Canyon Trail to experience vibrant raptor populations and tenacious prairie dog colonies. Starting at the Cold Brook Canyon Trail Parking Area, descend moderately through forested terrain for a short while before the grade slackens noticeably. Pass through a seasonal creek, moving out of the forest and into the golden grasses of the South Dakotan prairie. As you travel deeper into the canyon, keep your eyes peeled for raptors nesting in the hillsides, awaiting their chance to pluck a prairie dog dinner from the interweaved tunnels underlying the valley floor. Upon reaching the trail's end, visitors must return the way they came, unless they have pre-arranged to leave a shuttle vehicle at the western trailhead off Song Dog Road.