Westside Chiropractic PC
Rapid City, SD
Westside Chiropractic PC
Rapid City, SD
About Westside Chiropractic PC
Westside Chiropractic in Rapid City, South Dakota provides expert chiropractic care focused on helping people stay healthy, active, and moving well—both on and off the trails. Their experienced health team takes a personalized approach to chiropractic care, helping patients address pain, improve mobility, and maintain overall wellness. Whether you’re dealing with lingering discomfort or looking to stay proactive about your health, Westside Chiropractic is dedicated to supporting long-term movement and function.
For hikers, bikers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts, maintaining spinal health and proper alignment is key to enjoying the trails and staying active year-round. Westside Chiropractic works with patients to build a strong foundation for movement, helping reduce injury risk and improve performance so you can continue exploring the Black Hills with confidence. By focusing on wellness, prevention, and individualized care, Westside Chiropractic is a trusted partner for those who want to feel their best and keep doing the outdoor activities they love.
Trail Talk
Favorite trail in the Black Hills and why? If I had to recommend one trail for first-time visitors or experienced hikers who simply want to enjoy the relaxing natural beauty of the Black Hills, it would be Sunday Gulch. It’s a classic trail right in the heart of the Hills. For a more challenging short hike, St. Elmo Trail is excellent. For the big adventure, Black Elk Peak is the one. Honorable mentions go to Hippie Hole, Buzzard’s Roost, and Roughlock Falls.
Most memorable Black Hills trail experience? Discovering natural arches in the Hills. They are true hidden gems and rarely appear on maps.
What’s always in your backpack? Number one is my phone—I rely on OnX, AllTrails, and Avenza for mapping. They’re essential for finding new places. We always pack good backpacks for collecting beautiful rocks. A lightweight down jacket is a must for sudden weather changes. Electrolytes help with long hot or cold hikes and tight muscles. Last but not least: snacks! Calorie-dense options are perfect for when the kids start to lose motivation on a long hike. And always pack a headlamp for early mornings and late evenings.
Favorite hiking/adventure partner? My wife Ramie, daughter Andelyn, sons Ryker and Kalen, and our fur baby Marly from Tish Kennels. She’s full of energy and loves our family completely!
Top tips for exploring the Hills? Maps, maps, maps! If you can read a map, you can discover amazing places and navigate off-the-beaten-path.
One trail everyone should experience? The Sturgis City Dams offer a unique, quieter hike. Spearfish Canyon or Iron Creek Trail are also great options to mix things up.
Favorite Black Hills season and why? Fall during the elk rut. There is no better sound than a bugling bull.
Favorite trail snack or post-hike treat? With so many options available today it’s hard to choose. As a health-focused physician we always recommend clean, protein-based snacks. For a high-calorie option that packs protein, fat, and energy for long backcountry hikes, try a peanut butter, bagel, and bacon sandwich. Trail mix (with salt and M&Ms, of course) is always a reliable go-to.
Coolest place explored outside the Black Hills? Don’t forget about the Badlands! The different topography makes it feel like an entirely different world from the Black Hills.
Dream outdoor destination? We love heading west into the high alpine—north or south never disappoints. We plan routes carefully, backpack in, and set up base camp between 9,400 and 9,600 feet so we can explore the higher elevation from there.
Favorite national park/public land? Our family loves the Bighorn Mountains the most. We also enjoy Yellowstone and other Rocky Mountain parks. The Appalachian Trail is another must-see.
Most surprising wildlife encounter? We love seeing moose, elk, and bear—just remember to always give them their space. We took our little niece’s this past weekend and had a moose travel next to our camp as she was going for water from the hot day. It was a special moment for our littles to have a up close experience with a moose
One piece of gear you can’t live without? A great pair of hiking boots will make or break your hiking season.
Trail recommendation for beginners? Start with an easy, scenic trail that delivers classic hiking vibes and a sense of serenity. When you look at a trail on a map, pay attention to the elevation gain rather than just the distance. It will give you a clue as to how hard the trail will hike and you can add more elevation as you challenge your hiking abilities
Trail recommendation for a challenge? Barnes Canyon through Fisherman’s Flats in Custer State Park. Its long, scenic and has some elevation changes. You will also see some interesting wildlife back in the flats and canyons.
Advice for new hikers/bikers? Buy once, cry once. If you know this is something you want to pursue, invest in the best gear you can afford: shoes, socks, pants, belt, layered tops, pack, hydration system, maps, GPS watch, hats, gloves, and quality sunglasses.
Favorite outdoor activity besides hiking? Hunting, fishing, biking, backpacking, swimming, off-roading, caving, skiing, sledding, and water sports.