Mickelson Trail Forum

Hi ,

My wife and I are visiting the Black Hills in mid June this year and want to bike the trail over 5 days, stopping in different towns alomgbthe way and taking our time.
Question:
Where is the best place to hire a regular, not e, bike, with panniers etc for luggage? Plan to leave bulk of suitcase contents in car at start point then get a shuttle bus? back to car with bikes.
Hoping to do the whole route but doesnt have to start from Deadwood...could start halfway, do one section south, shuttle up to Deadwood then cycle back to our start point. Ideas?

Here is a link to a group of local businesses that are trail related. I commuted from Kansas City with my bike, so I don’t have rental experience. I did use Black Hills Discovery Tours, but not as a shuttle. I hired them to drive/move my truck from Deadwood to Edgemont where it was waiting for me when I finished the trail. The owner, Bill, has been doing shuttles and regional tours for decades and if you call him he will be glad to give you good advice/options. In the link I noted that the rental place Bicycles & Boats may be a good option. It appears they are affiliated with Acme Bicycles in Rapid City where I stopped while driving from home to Deadwood. They had a supply of Bike Jerseys that were trail related ( it was a shop shirt with the addition of a trail map imprinted on a topo map of the area plus listed the trail heads) I called a bunch of places trying to find a Mickelson Trail bike jersey and theirs was the closest I could find. They were helpful on the phone and even texted me pictures of the jersey. Coincidentally the cross street adjacent to their shop was Kansas City Road which I didn’t realize until I arrived. Small world! You might talk to them about bike rentals also.
I rode the whole trail over 1 1/2 days starting in Deadwood and riding to Custer day one, 66 miles. I stopped at Crazy Horse Memorial which is a really easy detour because the trail goes under the road up to the memorial. Be prepared for a short climb via paved road to the toll gate ($10 per bicycle rider) then another short climb to the visitor center. There is a bike rack in the parking lot.
Day two was Custer to Edgemont, 45 miles, and took me almost 3 1/2 hours. It was pretty easy and I enjoyed the change in landscape from the Black Hills into more of a prairie landscape. Dead Horse Canyon was very scenic to the north of Edgemont.
Back to Bill and his advice: He said some people hire him for a ride to/from Dumont, depending on where they park or stay. This allows riders to avoid the steepest part of the trail which is uphill all the way from Deadwood to Dumont. By riding that section northbound they are riding downhill. Then they start the next day at Dumont and ride south, which is predominantly downhill for the rest of the trail. I’m going to include links to my Strava so you can see pictures and feedback from my recent experience. Also if you are on Facebook I suggest joining group “Mickelson Trail Black Hills SD” then search for my name Eric McCollom. Another good facebook group is Rails to Trails.
If you wanted to go to Mt Rushmore it is generally not a bicycle safe route due to narrow highways with distracted drivers. I will ride on highways myself if it can be done without too much risk of being run over.
https://www.mickelsontrailaffiliates.com/
https://strava.app.link/4uN2rGFgtGb
https://strava.app.link/HTmq1uHgtGb
Good luck!

What is the best direction when doing the whole trail?

Most people do southbound, because it is predominantly a gradual downhill route. The exception is the first 16 miles are uphill out of Deadwood and then crests before Dumont. I hired Bill from Black Hills Discovery Tours. Bill drove my truck to Edgemont where it was waiting for me when I finished riding the trail. This was a little expensive, but less than two shuttle tickets for you, your partner and your bikes. Plus, I didn’t have to ride the shuttle two hours back to Deadwood (if I had parked there) Bill said he has some clients who hire him for a ride to or from Dumont where they ride downhill to Deadwood then the next day start the southbound trek from Dumont to ride the rest of the trail.
https://www.mickelsontrailaffiliates.com/bike-shops

HI Mary! My brother and I did Deadwood to Edgemont last September (2023), spread over three days. That uphill climb out of Deadwood was brutal and we had other factors against us (cold temps and rain + our overnight packs added extra weight). We ended up not making it to our intended destination (Hill City) and instead called a shuttle to pick us up in Rochford. We had no problems the rest of the ride (day 2 was Hill City to Custer and day 3 was Custer to Edgemont).

When I do it again (and I will because it was so much fun and such a beautiful area!), I will not start in Deadwood, lol!

For reference, my brother and I are casual cyclists and we did not do anything special training-wise before our ride. During spring/summer/fall, I typically ride a couple times a week on trails near my home.

I found a post 2-3 pages back from 2022 but didn’t see the answer I’m looking for. It mentioned there are maps at each trail head. How can I get a map before I arrive for our summer trip? I sent an email to SD State Parks but haven’t got an answer yet. TIA
If anyone is coming to MO for the Katy Trail, I just completed the entire trail out-and-back in September and can offer plenty of tips. There were two of us and we camped.

Hi Mitch! There's a PDF map on the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks website here:
https://gfp.sd.gov/userdocs/mickelson-trail-map.pdf

This is the map we initially used when my brother and I rode the Mickelson Trail this past September.

Hopefully that is helpful for now. We got a nice brochure with map from our shuttle driver that we ended up using instead of this one from the GFP's site because it was larger and had a lot more info.

The Katry Trail is on my list of trails to ride someday!! :)

Are there any shuttle service that could take bicyckes and gear from Edgemont to Deadwood?

Thank you!

This link has several companies that may be able to help you. I personally used Black Hills Discovery Tours and was pleased with the result. I hired Bill to drive my truck from Deadwood to Edgemont. It was waiting for me when I arrived. This was expensive for me as a single rider, but would be cheaper for several people. Give him a call, he’s been doing this for decades. Also, do not miss Purple Pie Place in Custer.

https://www.mickelsontrailaffiliates.com/bike-shops

Thanks, Eric!

Looking for an e trike rental to ride the Mickelson Trail in 2024.
Are there any bike shops that rent e trikes or recumbent bikes?

Hmmm...some of those e-trikes are kinda WIDE. I say let's be more inclusive and open up the Mickelson Bike Trail to include mopeds, small to medium horsepower motorcycles, ATVs, golf carts, and sub-compact automobiles.

I think you are on to something. During my recent trip, I already saw a moped running two miles south of Deadwood. Class 3 e-bikes too.
Might as well go to the extreme and ruin the trail for all traditional bikers and hikers. The trail stewards don't seem to care. They sure aren't policing their own policy. When someone gets severely hurt by a 70# ebike or moped going 30mph, maybe they will do something.

Anyone familiar with the classic musical comedy movie The Blues Brothers? I don’t know what made me think of Illinois nazis, but here’s a description of one of the movie scenes. For those not familiar, John Belushi plays Jake. Dan Akroyd is Elwood.

In the 1980 cult classic film “The Blues Brothers,” Jake and Elwood are stuck in traffic as a Nazi rally blocks the bridge they need to cross. When they ask a nearby police officer about what’s going on, the officer shrugs, “Ah, those bums won their court case, so they’re marching today.” Jake replies, “What bums?” The officer shoots back, “The f**ckin’ Nazi party.”

“Illinois Nazis,” Elwood mutters, to which Jake groans, “I hate Illinois Nazis.” The duo then pushes the gas pedal to the floor, veering towards the Nazis, forcing them to jump off the bridge and into the river to avoid being hit.

So, anyone who has an opinion different from yours is a Nazi. Got it. How progressive of you. Maybe if you or someone you care about ever gets injured by an 80# e-trike, you might wise up. But I'm not betting that you will. Maybe go for a few walks around the block and you won't need help to ride a bike. Seems like you are soft in more ways than one.

As for me, if the stewards don't care and there are guys like you on this forum calling others Nazis, I'll find a more civil place to talk about the Mick.

Right on, Bill. Bicycle "A vehicle composed of two wheels held in a frame one behind another, propelled by pedals and steered with handlebars attached to the front wheel." (From Oxford Languages)

(Just Sayin)

Maybe a Stripes reference would be better? “Lighten up Francis”
I’m not an e-bike rider, although I did rent one last year and rode from Johnston Canyon within Banff National Park, down the Bow Valley Parkway then the Legacy Trail to Canmore. Total 50 km. You should look up this trial seasonal closure and I will include a link below for you and others, so you get something out of this conversation. The e-bike was kind of fun, but I don’t think of it as the real exercise I get on my own power. There is no doubt that it is an activity and light exercise depending on the assist level used plus it is getting people out of the house and off the couch. I personally ride a gravel bike, it’s called a Cutthroat. It’s powered by me. E-bikes are here to stay and they are responsible for a tremendous increase in people out there on the trails. Those people want more trails and are going to help that happen and I welcome that. Are there some that ride too fast? Definitely, but that goes for streets and highways too. Do gas motorized vehicles belong on the trails? No, we can agree on that. Perhaps more people can learn trail manners/etiquette and speed limits….and remember these are shared use trails.
.
https://www.travelbanffcanada.com/cycling-bow-valley-parkway-banff/

BBHugs I don’t think anyone in this thread is from South Dakota and none have answered your question. Here is a link to companies that offer trail related services. I took a few minutes browsing the rental companies and didn’t see trikes or recumbents offered as rentals…..it was basic e-bikes. I used Black Hills Discovery Tours to shuttle my personal vehicle to trails end. Perhaps give them a call….Bill is a good resource of all sorts of trail related information.
https://www.mickelsontrailaffiliates.com/bike-shops

Hey! I'm going to bike the trail this Tues-Wed (10/17-18). I know there was snow earlier. Is the trail open? What condition is it in?

Any info on visiting Crazy Horse by bicycle from the trail? I know it’s about a half mile from the trail and it’s currently $10/rider, but their website doesn’t have any info about bike racks or storage….hopefully no one would mess with my bike or bags. I would like a few good pictures, a few minutes walking around and an Indian taco.

I just did the Volksmarch there. Although I was not eyeballing anything for a bike, there is a few structures there like a Welcome Center that I'm sure has something to secure your bike to. Wish I was quick to think about that while I was there.

I was there in August and there is a bicycle rack located in the parking lot and adjacent to the handicap parking spaces. The rack is clearly visible from the front entrance to the museum and clearly visible from the tram stop for those buying the pass to the mountain site….what I’m saying is bikes are in plain site if anyone is concerned about their bike being tampered with which seems unlikely.

Has anyone backpacked the whole trail?
I really want to try it & wondering how long it took to hike it? I know people have different walking speeds. Just trying to get an idea.

I backpacked it last October SOBO and it took me 4.5 days. I am headed out again soon to do it NOBO but I am going to take 6 days this time to enjoy it a bit more. It was a great trip but I failed to deconflict with the Crazy Horse Marathon last year and had a miserable trip through Hill City up to Crazy Horse. Hundreds or thousands of runners took over the trail during that section. You should also be weary about water in the south portions. The cisterns get locked up depending on weather but last year it was around October 10th. I barely made it through the trek before they were locked. Up north there are plenty of creeks to filter water from.

I lost my riding gloves on 9/8 in a pull out between Kirk Trailhead and Deadwood. They are red & black and I was wearing them over grey fingered gloves (cold mornings). They have special meaning to me, so I'm reaching out in case someone finds them. Thanks!

9-2-23 , I lost my wedding ring between mile marker 89 & 90. The ring is white gold with 3 diamonds. Thank you. If you have found it please contact me.
Leon Gillespie
P.O. Box 711
Hill City, SD

Is there day parking for vehicles while riding the Mickelson Trail ?

Yes, if there’s a lot, there’s parking. My truck was parked for 24 hours on the street in Edgemont at the city park for example.

Has anybody cycled north to south and back north? Is it boring or does the changed perspective make it enjoyable still?
Are there any good roads for side trips along the Mickelson trail?

I'll be bikepacking north to south starting in Deadwood in late August. We're taking our time, focused on getting a few nights of great Black Hills camping, so traveling heavier. The guidebook indicates a 17% grade, more singletrack like section between Kirk and Englewood. However between the guidebook and other sites, I'm seeing conflicting information on which direction to go from Kirk to avoid the heavy hike a bike. To avoid the steep section, do we go toward the Sugarloaf trailhead or straight on to Englewood? Are there any similar gotchas we might want to know about? Many thanks for info

I want to know too! If it’s more scenic maybe a little hike a bike will be worth it……or ride the fantail then turn back north and ride both sections. Would that make the steep part generally downhill? I’m riding the 24th and 25th. Looking forward to replacing many calories at the Purple Pie Place in Custer.

Ok, it looks like taking the fantail avoids that section. As for doubling back north to hit it, you couldn't pay me to ride fully loaded down a 17% grassy grade. Maybe if I were running from from fire or zombies.

Hi!
Myself and three other woman are coming out to ride soon. We are trying to navigate degree of diffiulty and mileage per day. What are the hardest areas(elevation climbs)? We are planning north to south.
Anyone have any valuable insights? Tips? Recommendations? Thanks so very much for any input!

North to South direction is a good plan.
That said, I would recommend riding from Englewood to Deadwood since it is the most "difficult" section. By riding that section in that direction you will be mostly coasting on a downhill grade for about 8 miles. Once you finish that section, shuttle from Deadwood to Englewood and continue your ride south to eventually Edgemont.

I'm assuming you've seen the elevation map (link here: https://gfp.sd.gov/userdocs/mickelson-trail-map.pdf) that gives a pretty good description of the entire 109 miles. The first 5.9 miles out of Deadwood are probably the most difficult. After that it's mostly downhill into Hill City (approximate mid-point of the trail).

You'll have a slight climb out of Hill City for about 4 miles and then it's mostly downhill (or flat) all the way to Edgemont.

Since this is a former railroad line, the steepest gradient can't be more than 4% -somewhat like riding into a moderate wind. Of course, those climbing miles are offset by downhills on the other side.

Again, the link to the elevation map I included might be of help, if you haven't already seen it. Enjoy the ride.

Thank you so much Jaydee and Bill! I really appreicate your input. Great information!!!!!!!

If riding peddle-assist bikes, Deadwood to Englewood is not "difficult".

We will be riding Mountain bikes and Gravel bikes! Appreciate the tips!

I’m looking for cycling jerseys from the Mick, or even South Dakota. I’d settle for a nice T shirt if no jerseys can be found….maybe a local bike shop has one. Where can I find these along the trail or online? My Mickelson trip is being planned now and I am considering this month because September looks cold. Most of the cycling jerseys I own pay tribute to a bike or a hike I have traveled to complete. Currently I have jerseys for: Katy Trail, Bike Across Kansas (pending trip, but lots of rides over there) Arizona, Canada and Iceland.

I rode the trail 2 years ago and picked up a shirt from Granite Sports in Hill City. They had a nice selection of shirts and jerseys.

My husband and I are heading eastward for a graduation next Spring...early May, 2024. I want to ride the Mickelson trail from Hill City to Dead wood. I can rent a bike in Hill City. Has anyone stayed at the Spring Creek Inn or any other place in Hill City? Looking for recommendations.

My wife and I have stayed at the Comfort Inn & Suites on Old Hill City Road twice. Both times have been very good. Clean rooms, comfortable beds, and friendly staff. Last stay was summer 2022.

I've also heard good things about the Holiday Inn Express in Hill City, but I've never stayed there.

Sorry, I don't have any information on the Spring Creek Inn. I did read something about its cancellation policy not being very good, so you might want to verify that before making a reservation.

I'll be going back for a solo ride in September, and I'll stay at the Comfort Inn again only because my two prior experiences were very good. It's not the most economical in town (a little less than the Holiday Inn Express), but it's reasonable. If my September stay changes my mind about the Comfort Inn & Suites on Old Hill City Road, I'll update this comment. Have a great trip and a great ride!

We finished the trail today and just loved every minute of it.
We rode North to South as we wanted the hardest day of climbing first.
We are trying to get a shuttle tomorrow from Edgemont to Hill City. Rabbit can’t do it and we have left a message for Dave of Dave’s tours but haven’t gotten a reply. Any help is appreciated!

I called them yesterday, seemed helpful and like worth trying in future. Good luck
https://blackhillsdiscoverytours.com/mickelson-trail-bike-shuttle.html

Good luck on finding a ride to Hill City. I don't know much about the options. How many days were you on the trail North to South? How hard was the first day of climbing? Was the trail in good condition and was it windy? Thanks and again good luck.

You have bikes which need shuttled also?

Submitted a few hours ago but it requires review, possibly because I included a link. Try Black Hills Discovery Tours at 605-431-1200
605-920-1020 I called them yesterday and spoke about possibly arranging a ride soon. Seemed very helpful. And the price for one person with bike from south end to north end was $170. Please share cost and your outcome.

Give me a call
321.759.3433

Give me a call
321.759.3433

Sorry for the delay in my response. We were able to get a shuttle through Bill of Discovery Tours. Vince was our driver and he was great.

WONDERFUL trail.

Our itinerary was:
Day 0 - Rabbit Bicycles shuttled us and bikes to Deadwood
Day 1 - Deadwood to Hill City
Day 2 - AM - Sight seeing and set up camp in Custer SP
PM - Hill City to Custer SP
Day 3 - Custer to Edgewood (caught shuttle back with Discovery Tours next day)

We finished up each day around 4:30 - 5:30

What route to you recommend where it splits at the Kirk trailhead, the sugarloaf route or the other route?

Eric from KC. Please give me a call. My friends and I are going to ride 9/5/23 deadwood/Edgemount. Would be interesting to talk to you.
913-660-5955

Which direction is the more scenic ride from the Blackhills Trailside RV Park?

I suppose that depends on what you are looking for. All 4 tunnels are north of Hill City. North of Hill City is mostly through beautiful forest areas. South of Hill City is more open and can be very windy on some days. You can see the Crazy Horse Monument going south and you can cut over to Custer State Park (fee required) to see some bison, too. If I only had time to do one way, I'd do Hill City towards Deadwood. But that's just me.

We are here in Rapid City for
The second time in 3 years that we just love.

I just found out about this Trailhead. Is there a place to rent bikes along the trail anywhere ??

We want to bike this trail are there bike rentals along the way ?

https://www.mickelsontrailaffiliates.com/
Try this site.

You can give these a try (I'm not sure how current the info is). Hill City is close to midway on the trail so you could ride either direction. Good luck.

Rabbit Bicycle Rentals & Shuttle Service https://www.rabbitbike.com/

Bike rentals/repair: 605.574.4302

Shuttle service: 877.469.9446 Toll Free



Mickelson Trail Adventures: Hill City, SD http://www.mickelsontrailadventures.com/

Bike rentals: 605.391.4491

Shuttle service: 605.574.4094 866.574.4094 Toll Free

Having completed Hill City to Deadwood in a day's round trip July 2023, would offer this feedback. Study maps and terrain, north of Englewood carefully, before riding.

A big advantage is traveling very light, snacks only, as trailheads have cold, tasty well water. Next time I will choose to cut over into Lead, instead of continuing to Deadwood, and avoid a lot of elevation change - just to reach the official 'end\start.' A wonderful trail, so well liked and maintained!

Is there a place to charge ebikes in Pringle?

Pringle did not appear to have any businesses other than a biker bar. A prominent, creepy pile of hundreds of junked bicycles as well, arranged for all to see. I only noticed E-Bikes within a few miles of Englewood, then into Deadwood, and plus \ minus five miles of Hill City.