The best cycling routes around Deadwood

Touring cycling around Deadwood takes you through the diverse landscapes of the Black Hills National Forest. You'll encounter forested hills, picturesque streams, and the dramatic limestone cliffs and valleys of Spearfish Canyon. The region's geology, including the ancient Deadwood Formation, contributes to unique rock formations and varied terrain, offering a distinct backdrop for your rides.

Yes, the area is home to the renowned George S. Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile rail-to-trail project. A significant section of this trail, approximately 46.7 miles (75.2 km), is featured as the George S. Mickelson Trail route on komoot. It offers a crushed limestone and gravel surface, traversing through spruce and ponderosa pine forests and canyons.

The touring cycling routes in Deadwood offer a range of challenges. While there is one moderate route, the majority of the listed tours are considered difficult, featuring significant elevation changes. For example, the Deadwood – Bridge loop from Deadwood is a moderate option, whereas routes like the Deadwood – Grazing cows loop from Deadwood are more challenging.

Yes, several circular routes are available for touring cyclists. The Deadwood – Bridge loop from Deadwood is a popular moderate option, and for a longer, more challenging ride, consider the Deadwood – Grazing cows loop from Deadwood.

Many of the trails, including sections of the George S. Mickelson Trail, feature a crushed limestone and gravel surface. Other routes may include varied terrain with paved and unpaved sections, typical of the Black Hills environment.

While cycling, you might encounter the stunning Spearfish Canyon, known for its towering limestone cliffs and waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls. The Black Hills themselves offer forested hills and picturesque streams. Further afield, Custer State Park, accessible from Deadwood, features the awe-inspiring granite spires of the Needles Highway and the serene Sylvan Lake.

The routes in Deadwood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain and the scenic beauty of the Black Hills.

Yes, there are routes that connect Deadwood with nearby areas like Lead. An example is the Grazing cows – Abraham Lincoln statue loop from Lead, which offers a challenging ride through the surrounding landscapes.

Beyond cycling, Deadwood and its surroundings cater to a wide array of outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking trails, fishing in the area's lakes and streams, horseback riding, and ATV/UTV riding on miles of motorized trails. During winter, Terry Peak Ski Area offers skiing and snowboarding, along with groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

While specific routes aren't designated for wildlife viewing, the Black Hills National Forest and areas like Custer State Park (easily accessible from Deadwood) are known for diverse fauna. Cycling through the forested hills and open landscapes, particularly on routes like the Bridge – Grazing cows loop from Deadwood, may offer opportunities to spot local wildlife.

While not explicitly stated, the mention of winter sports suggests that spring, summer, and fall are ideal for touring cycling in Deadwood, offering pleasant weather to explore the Black Hills' natural beauty before the snow arrives.