Allen, from Fort Collins on 7/4/2023 12:56:24 PM:
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!