With summer in full swing, 605’s John and Alana Snyder set out for a family getaway with their son Owen to Spearfish Canyon Lodge.
Located on the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, the lodge stands as an oasis for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a serene retreat.
“The lodge is like a one-stop shop; when you come to the resort, there are various activities you can do there with your family,” said social media director Kayla Betten.
Betten says the lodge has everything from hiking, UTV/ATV rentals, fishing equipment rentals, on-site restaurants, large suites, hot tubs, and more.
The first stop upon the Snyders’ arrival was lunch at The Latchstring Restaurant. With over 100 years of service, there is something for everyone, whether it be a romantic dinner for two or the entire family.
Dine in the rustic lodge setting or enjoy a meal on the outdoor patio with a breathtaking view of the canyon walls.
“All of our items are homemade,” said Betten. “We have recipes that were created over 100 years ago and are still used today.”
After a short chat with their server, Joseph Garza, John and Alana sat down to enjoy Latchstring’s Cheese Curds and two of their most popular menu items, the Bison Stew and Blackened Trout.
The Bison Stew is a homemade stew with buffalo sirloin, potatoes, and a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs, all served in a savory homemade bread bowl.
A popular recommendation for the dish is to top the stew with Corn Cakes.
“Our corn cakes are from another homemade recipe that’s been around for years,” said Betten. “It’s like a spicy corn fritter that adds a new element of flavor to the bison stew.”
The Blackened Trout is a light sandwich topped with a rainbow trout filet is served with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and lemon aioli on a toasted hoagie bun.
“Trout has become a staple since we’re in close proximity to Spearfish Creek,” explained Betten.
Try other popular dishes like Chislic, the Pan-seared Walleye, or the featured pasta or burger of the week.
“It’s fun for our kitchen to come up with something new every week, and it’s something our guests really enjoy,” shared Betten.
Betten suggests that everyone end their meal with a sweet homemade dessert (especially a Caramel or Cinnamon Roll).
FACT
The Latchstring Restaurant cheese curds were voted as 605 Magazine’s Best Cheese Curds in the 2019 605 Best Issue.
LATCHSTRING MENU
Chislic Truffle Fries
Crispy fries loaded with signature marinated beef tenderloin chislic, topped with truffle oils, garlic seasonings, and parmesan cheese.
Dragon Shrimp
Fresh jumbo shrimp sautéed in popular homemade sweet chili sauce.
11th hour Club
Rainbow trout filet, blackened and served with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and lemon aioli.
Canyon Dip
Sliced prime rib soaked in au jus with swiss cheese on a toasted hoagie, and a side of au jus.
The Latchstring Burger
½ lb burger with bacon, jalapeños, cheddar cheese, and an egg any style.
The Calamity
½ lb burger with candied jalapeño, cream cheese, and bacon.
After lunch, the Snyders geared up to take a joyride through the Hills with Spearfish Canyon Lodge’s UTV rentals.
The family hopped into the 2023 Polaris Razor Pro XP UTV and zipped through the winding, scenic trails.
“You can go anywhere in the Hills and drive the entire day and truly experience the fresh air, wide-open spaces, and beautiful skies that our state is known for,” said Betten.
UTVs and ATVs are available for half-day or full-day rentals, accommodating any visitor’s schedule.
Other rentals available are The Polaris Slingshot, e-bikes, fishing equipment and fat tire bikes. Snowmobiles and snowshoes are also available in the winter.
The Snyders returned the rental and took a moment to enjoy a relaxing walk through nature. After a short ride back to the lodge, John ventured off to seek more fun, while Alana and Owen made their way to their room, the Calamity Jane Suite.
Inspired by Deadwood legend Calamity Jane, the suite carries the character and aspects of life as the famous namesake.
The Calamity suite boasts a spacious king bed dressed in extra blankets, robes, and a stuffed black bear (Owen’s favorite part of the room).
“If you’re looking for indoor and outdoor adventure, this is the place to be.” – Kayla Betten
“All of our rooms and suites have a rustic character and a peaceful atmosphere,” shared Betten.
While Alana and Owen settled in for the rest of the afternoon, John met Derrick Breske, a Spearfish Canyon Lodge team member. The two chatted about the area as they fished.
John and Alana ended their night unwinding in the Roughlock Lounge enjoying a cocktail from the lodge’s weekly specials menu.
“The lounge is the perfect place for guests to have a beverage and relax after a long day of adventures,” said Betten.
Betten shares other popular cocktails include homemade Blueberry Vodka Lemonade and their homemade Bloody Mary.
Whether guests are visiting to experience indoor and outdoor adventure or a relaxing weekend away, Spearfish Canyon Lodge can accommodate those needs.
“You can come to Spearfish Canyon Lodge and do absolutely anything,” said Betten.
