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   During a drive through Spearfish Canyon, it’s easy to imagine that it took a wild river to create this narrow gorge. But within the modern era, the Spearfish River has been demoted to creek status. In fact, during recent years of drought, water in the creek has been slowed to a trickle during the fall.
   Surrounded by deep green ponderosa pine, white spruce and a golden hint of autumn, it's good to see this Spearfish Creek view of a brisk running stream. For anglers, the nearby D.C. Booth Fish Hatchery, in the town of Spearfish, ensures an ample supply of brown, rainbow and brook trout. The drought has had an adverse affect on trout populations in some streams, reducing the number of fish as well as anglers.
   During South Dakota's brief autumn, golden aspens and birch brighten the steep-sided canyon walls. This great scenic drive, one of the most picturesque places in the Black Hills, also offers sightseers a collection of graceful waterfalls. Just a mile from U.S. Route 14A, FR 222 heads west from Savoy to Roughlock Falls (inset). Here, a one mile hike leads to this popular sight.

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