The best cycling routes around Keystone

The Hill City to Keystone via Old Hill City Route offers a truly immersive touring cycling adventure through the heart of the Black Hills. You'll pedal past dense pine forests and rugged granite formations, enjoying beautiful panoramas that unfold with every turn. The route itself is a mix of paved and unpaved sections, including some short singletrack, making it a challenging yet rewarding experience for those who appreciate varied terrain.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with both Hill City and Keystone providing amenities and historic attractions to explore before or after your journey. While the route is considered difficult, the limited traffic ensures a peaceful ride. Be sure to check the weather forecast for the Black Hills before you go to ensure optimal conditions for this 21.7-mile (34.9 km) trek.

One of the most unique aspects of this route is its close relationship with the historic 1880 Train, with the cycling path running parallel to and crossing the tracks multiple times. This adds a charming, nostalgic element to your ride, connecting you to the region's rich history. With 1552 feet (473 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes, this route is perfect for advanced touring cyclists looking for a memorable Black Hills experience.

Embark on a demanding touring cycling adventure with the Rapid City to Hill City loop, a difficult 80.4-mile (129.4 km) route that plunges you deep into the Black Hills National Forest. You'll navigate a mix of paved roads, crushed limestone, and gravel paths, particularly along the George S. Mickelson Trail, which features historic railway tunnels and bridges. Expect significant elevation changes, with over 6500 feet (1991 metres) of climbing, as you pass through towering pines, rugged canyons, and sweeping meadows, keeping an eye out for deer and elk.

This challenging loop is best suited for cyclists with very good fitness, as it typically takes around 9 hours and 33 minutes to complete. Many touring cyclists opt to break the journey into a multi-day trip due to the distance and substantial elevation gain. Be prepared for steep grades, some exceeding 8%, and potentially unpaved sections that might require you to dismount and push your bike.

The Rapid City to Hill City loop offers an immersive experience in the Black Hills, showcasing diverse landscapes and connecting to other notable paths like the Centennial Trail. A significant portion of the route follows the historic George S. Mickelson Trail, South Dakota's pioneering rails-to-trails project, known for its unique railway tunnels and over 100 converted bridges. This trail provides a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

The Stockade Lake – Stockade Lake Campground loop from Custer is a demanding touring cycling adventure, covering 58.4 miles (93.9 km) with a formidable 5131 feet (1564 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult route, taking around 6 hours and 51 minutes, starts by connecting you to the George S. Mickelson Trail spur, a paved path offering initial ease before transitioning to crushed limestone and gravel. As you approach Stockade Lake, the terrain becomes more varied, with sections of dirt, pea gravel, pine needles, and potentially unstable rocks, all set against a backdrop of dense pine forests and rugged limestone cliffs. You'll be treated to great views into the Harney Range and glimpses of the Needles and Black Elk Fire Tower.

Planning your ride requires a few considerations. A user fee is necessary for the Mickelson Trail, with passes conveniently available at all trailheads. Since this is a long and difficult route, ensure you're well-prepared with water, snacks, and appropriate gear. The area is part of Custer State Park, so expect well-maintained natural surroundings. Checking the weather forecast is always a good idea before embarking on such a significant cycling journey.

This route offers more than just a physical challenge; it's a deep dive into the Black Hills' natural and historical landscape. You'll follow old railroad corridors, experiencing the unique geology and ecosystems of the region. Near Stockade Lake, the Gordon Stockade Historical Fort provides a fascinating historical stop, adding another layer to your adventure. This loop is an excellent choice for experienced touring cyclists looking for a substantial, rewarding ride through diverse South Dakota scenery.