Bike

Thinking of biking the trail next year. What is the best time of bike to use for this trail?

My two cents is a gravel bike or similar. The Katy is overwhelmingly flat, so you’ll be pedaling a lot. Prior to my first Katy trip a physical therapist coworker who was a cyclist asked me if I like spin cycling classes. I told her of course not…she definitely had a good point about cycling on rail trails. It’s relatively smooth since it’s crushed rock, so your rolling resistance is not as good as pavement, but much easier than gravel. A medium width tire is sufficient for cushion compared to skinny road bike tires which would likely be uncomfortable for you, plus they are more susceptible to flats. I also own and ride a mountain bike, sometimes I will have my family drop me off at my closest MTB trails and when I’m done I ride the MTB back home. This is when I realize how much more effort and energy it takes riding it the short three miles home compared to my gravel bike. The weight and lower gearing of the MTB on the Katy would be miserable in my opinion. To me, like what you’re asking, you want the right tool for the best experience.

You will enjoy the trail anytime. I like the late summer and fall the best but mid summer is nice too as long as you are not in the southern part of the trail in the hot afternoon. The trail is ideal for a gravel bike, 38-45mm tires. But MTB is fine too if you’re taking it easy and stopping to enjoy the views. 10-12 mph is a very casual average speed (that is combined up and down hill in northern section). 14-16mph average is a good fun training ride for me. Plenty of water and facilities on the trail. There are a couple of running races during the year other than that it is very under utilized. Hope you make it out, it is a great ride and great place to visit.

My ADHD brain got the best of me and I failed to recognize your question was a Mickelson post. Sorry about that. I’m in both the Katy and Mickelson groups. My bike suggestion for a gravel remains, probably even more so….that very long climb out of Deadwood is a low grade, but it lasts for 12+ miles. Also, if you are a southbound rider consider taking the left fork at the Kirk trailhead in Lead (pronounced Leed) It is shorter but there will be two very short but steep hills because this is a secondary trail (not original) that was added in the Lead area. This option is a bit more scenic. Some riders don’t like the steep sections, but is only an issue riding southbound.
If you’re not aware the Mickelson Trail goes under the driveway leading up to the Crazy Horse Memorial. It’s an interesting stop and the museum is free, HOWEVER they will charge you to ride up there just as they would a car. There is a bike rack in the parking lot in a wide open visible area if you’re concerned about bike security. Note that it’s on a busy path between the lot and museum entrance so a lot of people will pass by the bike rack (so perhaps secure any item on your bike that might be valuable)
Do not miss Purple Pie Place in Custer. Chalet Motel was very nice.