Our first time on the trail – Day 1
Imagine a path where the ghosts of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane still roam; where bicyclists, hikers, and horseback riders can explore spruce and ponderosa pine forests; and the very young, the very old, and people of all abilities can enjoy.
The George S. Mickelson Trail, in the heart of the beautiful Black Hills, was completed in September of 1998. Its gentle slopes and easy access allow people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the beauty of the Black Hills. Much of the trail passes through National Forest Land, but there are parts of the trail that pass through privately owned land, where the trail use is restricted to the trail only.
The trail is 109 miles long and contains more than 100 converted railroad bridges and 4 rock tunnels. The trail surface is primarily crushed limestone and gravel. There are 15 trailheads, all of which offer parking, self-sale trail pass stations, vault toilets, and tables.
A majority of the trail does not exceed a 4% grade, but parts of the trail are considered strenuous. Dumont is the highest point and the 19 mile stretch from Deadwood to Dumont is the longest incline.
The George S. Mickelson Trail: A Guide to this Iconic South Dakota Bike Trail
The Ultimate Bike Ride: What Makes the Mickelson Trail So Special?
Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? The George S. Mickelson Trail is more than just a bike ride – it’s an immersive experience that combines stunning natural beauty, rich history, and thrilling outdoor recreation opportunities.
Scenic landscapes : Imagine pedaling through picturesque valleys, scenic canyons, and rolling hills, with the surrounding mountains as your constant companion.
Wildlife encounters : Keep an eye out for deer, elk, bison, and other wildlife that call this region home.
Historic landmarks : Visit abandoned mines, historic railroad stations, and other remnants of the region’s rich mining history.
Biking bliss : Enjoy the smooth, gravel-surfaced trail, which is perfect for bikers of all skill levels.
The Trail in Detail
Key facts about the George S. Mickelson Trail:
Trail length : 109 miles (175 km)
Terrain : Generally flat, with some gentle inclines and declines
Surface : Gravel-surfaced trail
Difficulty : Easy to moderate, suitable for bikers of all skill levels
Trailheads
Edgemont : Starting point of the trail in Edgemont (mile 0)Location: 111 Egan St, Edgemont, SD 57735
Bike shop: Edgemont General Store and Bike Shop (5 miles from trailhead)
Centennial Valley : Mile 25Location: Centennial Valley Rd, Custer, SD 57730
Bike shop: Pedals Bike Shop in Custer (10 miles from trailhead)
Irene Trailhead : Mile 40Location: Irene Rd, Custer, SD 57730
Bike shop: None nearby; next nearest bike shop is in Hill City
Custer State Park : Mile 50Location: 13328 US-16A, Custer, SD 57730
Bike shop: None nearby; next nearest bike shop is in Hill City
Hill City Trailhead : Mile 65Location: 131 N Main St, Hill City, SD 57745
Bike shop: The Hub Bike Shop (in Hill City)
Mineral County Line : Mile 85Location: Mineral County Rd, Lead, SD 57754
Bike shop: None nearby; next nearest bike shop is in Deadwood
Mount Rushmore Trailhead : Mile 109Location: Mount Rushmore Ave, Keystone, SD 57751
Bike shop: None nearby; next nearest bike shop is in Rapid City
Bike Rentals and Prices
Edgemont General Store and Bike Shop : Rent a hybrid or mountain bike for $20-$30 per day.
Pedals Bike Shop : Rent a hybrid or mountain bike for $25-$40 per day.
The Hub Bike Shop : Rent a hybrid or mountain bike for $30-$50 per day.
Accommodations and Camping Options
Here are some accommodation and camping options along the trail:
Edgemont : Edgemont Inn & Suites, budget-friendly motel with free breakfast
Custer : Custer State Park Campground, campsite reservations available online
Hill City : Hill City Motel, cozy rooms with private balconies
Lead : Deadwood Mountain Lodge, luxury hotel with restaurant and bar
Food and Drink Vendors
Edgemont : The Daily Grind Cafe, coffee and pastry shop
Custer : Custer State Park Visitor Center, snacks and drinks available for purchase
Hill City : Hill City Bakery, bakery with sandwiches and salads
Lead : Lead Coffee Company, specialty coffee roaster
Trail Conditions and Maintenance Updates
The George S. Mickelson Trail is maintained by the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) and the Black Hills Trails Association (BHTA). Check the SDDOT website for trail conditions and maintenance updates.
Safety Tips and Emergency Contact Numbers
Emergency Contacts : Call 911 in case of emergency
Trail Etiquette : Be aware of wildlife, respect other trail users, and follow all traffic laws
Weather Conditions : Monitor weather forecasts and plan accordingly
https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/george-s–mickelson-trail
https://www.mickelsontrailaffiliates.com/trail-info
