The Black Hills National Forest will conduct its second Moon Walk of the year on Saturday, July 1 at 7:00 p.m. The activity will take place at the Spokane (Ghost Town), located approximately 23 miles southwest of Rapid City, SD on the Mystic Ranger District.
Established in 1891, Spokane was once one of the booming mining towns in the heart of the Black Hills. Spokane served as a mine, mill, and place to call home, until the town’s last caretaker left the area during the 1970s. This guided hike will highlight the remains of a true wild west ghost town. Discover what you can do to protect your local history and cultural resources. Come ready to be transported back in time and enjoy an evening learning about mines, a notorious murder mystery, and ghost towns in the Black Hills National Forest.
To reach the Moon Walk from Rapid City, SD, follow US-16 approx. 12 miles to Rockerville, SD. Take the exit towards Rockerville from US-16. Travel on Harney-Rockerville Rd/S Rockerville Rd and continue on Playhouse Rd for approx. 10 miles. Parking will be located on the east side of the road off Playhouse Rd. (Note: If you reach Iron Mountain Rd. (16A), you’ve gone too far south.) The drive takes about 35 minutes (one-way) from Rapid City. (Lat/Long Coordinates: 43°50’35” -103°23’04”) Event signs will also be posted at major intersections to help guide participants to the parking area.
Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars, flashlights, water, and bug repellant and dress for cooler evening temperatures. Long pants and sturdy footwear (hiking boots or athletic shoes) are recommended for your comfort and safety while hiking on uneven terrain. Please arrive early to aid in parking vehicles.
The program may be canceled unexpectedly due to unforeseen reasons such as lightning, high fire danger, wildfire, and other safety reasons beyond control. The program will not be canceled due to rain unless lightning is spotted. If the Moon Walk is canceled in advance due to severe weather forecasted, the notice of cancelation will be placed on the Black Hills National Forest Facebook and Twitter pages. The public is encouraged to check online before heading out to the event.
The Black Hills National Forest, in partnership with Black Hills Parks & Forests Association (BHPFA), is offering 2023 Moon Walk Collector’s Pins at each event for $5.00 each. The sale of lapel pins supports the interpretive and educational efforts across the Forest. The Moon Walk Programs are supported by BHPFA through financial assistance and staffing. BHPFA is a non-profit partner with the U.S. Forest Service.
Learn more about the Black Hills National Forest Moon Walk program.