Reply to best time to travel on the trail

I am wondering
-when is the best time to travel on this trail
-are there any rattlesnakes
-is it windy
-are there a lot of cyclists at one time on the trail

Here is Northern Idaho we have the Centennial Trail which is a 72 mile trail that goes from Plummer to Mullen. It is never crowded and the wildlife includes moose, deer, eagles and herons. Looking for more trails like this and considering Mickelson Trail.

Just my opinion but mid to late September is my favorite time to go. Cooler weather and except for Trail Trek weekend, it’s not real crowded.

There are prairie rattlesnakes in the Black Hills, but on my 3 trips to the trail I’ve never seen one. I do try to be alert.

I’ve found the windy area to be on the southern half of the trail south of Hill City. I’ve seen people walk their bikes a few times it was that windy. But I’m guessing that’s the exception and not the rule. I really never experienced anyone to speak of north of Hill city. But of course, every day is different. I think the southern half of the trail is more windy because it’s very wide open where the northern half is a lot more wooded. Just a guess.

I forget when the fall Trail Trek weekend is this year. But other than that it’s not terribly crowded.

I don’t know how strict they are enforcing the new restrictions on E bikes where only class one is allowed. But in any case watch out for the very big E bikes. Some are modified to go faster than 28 mph and I’ve seen a lot of them do that myself. But as long as you keep things in your rearview mirror, you should be fine. Have a good ride.

In late September, I am planning to ride the trail from Plummer over to Mullan. If things work. It’s been on my list for a long time.

I would suggest avoiding the trail and anywhere within 100 miles of it during the Sturgis motorcycle rally and probably one week before and after. I have no problem with the riders or rally, you should realize the event draws hundreds of thousands of people to the region. This influx will crowd the attractions, any/all camping or lodging, restaurants, etc. Many will bring or rent side by side ATVs and those are lawfully on the roads, highways and may often cross the trail. It just seems like you’ll have a better Mickelson experience by planning around Sturgis. Again, I’m not opposed and I hope they also have a great experience. The rally brings a great deal of revenue to the state. It’s usually the first full week of August, but use your google skills to verify.
I don’t recall seeing many posts about snakes in general, but if you are paying attention they should be easy to see and thus avoid.
The Mick crosses under the paved driveway leading to the Crazy Horse Memorial. It’s worth riding up to and touring the museum. They charge a vehicle admission fee, including bikes. In the parking lot there is a highly visible bike rack across from the museum entrance.
I rode southbound on a Thursday and Friday in late august, trail traffic was light. I had a good experience at Chalet Motel. Don’t miss Purple Pie Place.

Wait….72 mile Centennial Trail? Do you mean Trail of the Couer D’Alenes? I want to ride that one day along with the Route of the Hiawatha. Ideally I want to do the 300k Bitterroot route, just need to minimize the two lane highway riding west of St Marie’s.

If you are riding the Plummer to Mullen Trail and want to spend the night, lodging and food in Wallace is much better than Mullen!