The best cycling routes in South Dakota

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle ride through the heart of Custer State Park on the Wildlife Scenic Byway. This difficult 18.3-mile (29.4 km) route will test you with a significant 1896 feet (578 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 7 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you'll traverse diverse Black Hills scenery, moving from open grasslands to dense pine-speckled hills; keep an eye out for striking red-walled canyons and picturesque meadows that define the landscape.

Before you set out, be aware that while much of the byway is paved, you might encounter unpaved sections that add to the route's difficulty. The roads within Custer State Park often lack dedicated shoulders, so it's crucial to remain vigilant and share the road safely with motorists. For a more serene experience and better chances of spotting wildlife, consider starting your ride during the early morning or late evening hours. Remember to always keep a respectful and safe distance from all animals you encounter.

This route is particularly renowned for its abundant wildlife, offering you opportunities to see bison, pronghorn, deer, and burros roaming freely. You might even experience a memorable

Embark on a touring bicycle adventure along The Big Sioux River Recreation Trail and Greenway, a moderate route spanning 22.3 miles (35.8 km). You will experience a diverse landscape, transitioning from vibrant urban areas to serene wildlife habitats. The trail closely follows the Big Sioux River, providing consistent water views and guiding you through expansive open fields and shaded forested sections. A key visual landmark is the impressive Big Sioux River Falls at Falls Park, where you can observe stunning cascading waterfalls over unique quartzite formations. This journey involves a gentle elevation gain of 256 feet (78 metres) and typically takes about 2 hours and 2 minutes to complete, offering a pleasant ride for most cyclists.

Planning your touring bicycle trip on this greenway is straightforward, as the paved trails are well-maintained throughout the year, making it accessible in any season, including winter. You will find multiple convenient access points along the route, allowing you to start your ride from various locations. Restrooms and fix-it stations are also strategically placed, ensuring you have necessary amenities during your journey. Consider starting your ride in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, especially during peak seasons.

This trail is a notable feature of the region, offering a unique opportunity to explore Sioux Falls by bike while staying close to nature. Its continuous path along the Big Sioux River highlights the area's natural beauty and urban integration. The route provides a distinct perspective on the city's landscape, connecting various parks and green spaces. It stands out as a prime example of how urban development can coexist with natural riverine environments, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking an active outdoor experience.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure along the George S. Mickelson Trail, a scenic route stretching 26.0 miles (41.8 km) through the heart of the Black Hills National Forest. You'll experience a gradual climb of 991 feet (302 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 54 minutes, making it a rewarding ride. As you pedal, you'll pass through dense spruce and ponderosa pine forests, open meadows, and rugged limestone cliffs. Keep an eye out for the distinctive character of over 100 converted railroad bridges and four rock tunnels that mark the path. The trail offers a dynamic experience, with landscapes shifting from mountainous terrain to high mountain meadows.

Before you set out, remember that access to the trail requires either a daily or an annual pass. You can easily purchase your pass at any of the trailheads or online, ensuring a smooth start to your ride. While the trail is open year-round, the prime season for touring cycling is typically from April to October, when conditions are most favorable. You will find 15 accessible trailheads along the route, each equipped with parking, vault toilets, and water stations during the warmer months.

The George S. Mickelson Trail is a remarkable rail-to-trail conversion, transforming old railway lines into a path for outdoor enthusiasts. This unique history means you'll encounter a relatively gentle grade throughout your journey, making it accessible for many skill levels. Beyond the natural beauty, you might spot local wildlife such as deer and wild turkeys as you traverse the varied ecosystems. The trail's design, utilizing former railway infrastructure, provides a consistent and enjoyable surface for your touring bicycle adventure.

Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure along the George S. Mickelson Trail, a difficult route spanning 46.7 miles (75.2 km) through the scenic Black Hills National Forest. As a rail-to-trail conversion, you will experience diverse landscapes, from towering spruce and ponderosa pine forests to rugged canyons and peaceful valleys. The route involves a significant elevation gain of 3319 feet (1012 metres), taking approximately 5 hours and 58 minutes to complete, making it ideal for experienced cyclists seeking a rewarding journey.

Planning your ride on the George S. Mickelson Trail is straightforward, with 14 to 15 established trailheads providing convenient access. Each trailhead offers essential amenities like parking, vault toilets, and tables, ensuring a comfortable start and end to your trip. Remember that a trail pass is required for use, and you can easily purchase one at the self-sale stations located at these trailheads. E-bikes are also welcome on the trail, offering flexibility for various riders.

What truly sets this trail apart is its unique blend of natural beauty and historical engineering. You will traverse over 100 converted railroad bridges and pass through four rock tunnels, remnants of its past life as a railway. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including deer and elk, as you cycle, and be sure to look for the notable Waterfall by Rochford Road, a highlight along the route that adds to the trail's distinctive character.

The Leonard “Swanny” Swanson Memorial Pathway offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the banks of Rapid Creek through Rapid City. This easy 14.2-mile (22.8 km) paved route, with a gentle 304 feet (93 metres) of elevation gain, guides you past picturesque parks like Canyon Lake and Sioux Park, providing a blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Expect a smooth ride through sparsely wooded sections and open green spaces, perfect for a leisurely outing that takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Accessing the pathway is straightforward, with multiple entry points throughout Rapid City, making it convenient for locals and visitors alike. There are no permits or fees needed to enjoy this family-friendly cycling route. While the path is well-maintained, its winding nature means keeping an eye on your map can be helpful to navigate the various connections and side paths.

Named after a former public works director, the "Swanny" Pathway is more than just a bike trail; it's a testament to urban green planning. It connects key locations and recreational facilities, serving as a central artery for outdoor enthusiasts. The pathway also provides access to other trail networks in Rapid City, like the Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park Trail Network, expanding your cycling options.

The Northeast-Big Foot Loop offers a moderate touring cycling experience through the unique Badlands National Park. This 26.2-mile (42.2 km) route, which you can complete in about 3 hours and 1 minute, features an elevation gain of 821 feet (250 metres). You will cycle across both paved and unpaved surfaces, passing through rolling grasslands and distinctive badland formations, with opportunities to see ranch land and wildlife. Be sure to take in the expansive views from the Cliff Shelf Overlook.

When planning your visit, remember that this is a remote area. Carry ample water, as sources are scarce along the route, and prepare for potential tire punctures, especially from 'goatheads' on the unpaved sections. Always check the weather forecast before you go; heavy rains can make dirt and gravel roads impassable, and cell phone coverage can be unreliable.

This route immerses you in the otherworldly landscape of Badlands National Park, characterized by its intricately carved cliffs, buttes, and pinnacles. The diverse scenery changes from open ranch land to dramatic geological formations, often displaying striking colors under the sun. It's a chance to experience the raw, natural beauty and unique ecosystem of this iconic national park.

Embark on the George S. Mickelson Trail to Stockade Lake, a moderate touring cycling route spanning 11.3 miles (18.2 km) with an elevation gain of 608 feet (185 metres). You can expect to complete this ride in about 1 hour and 8 minutes. As you pedal, you will journey through the diverse landscapes of the Black Hills National Forest, encountering dense pine forests, serene meadows, and glimpses of rugged limestone cliffs. The route also features charming converted railroad bridges and rock tunnels, leading you to excellent views into the Harney Range from the spur to Stockade Lake.

Before you head out, remember that a trail pass is required for all users aged 12 and older to access the George S. Mickelson Trail. This pass helps support the trail's upkeep and amenities. Parking is conveniently available at various trailheads along the main Mickelson Trail, making it easy for you to start your adventure. Plan your visit to enjoy the natural beauty and historical elements of this well-maintained path.

This section of the George S. Mickelson Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance within Custer State Park. The trail's path, utilizing old railroad corridors, provides a fascinating glimpse into the region's past, enhanced by the presence of rock tunnels and repurposed bridges. It's a notable route for experiencing the distinct geology and ecosystems of the Black Hills, making it a standout option for touring cyclists looking for a manageable yet rewarding journey.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Grace Coolidge Creekside Trail, a paved path that follows the peaceful Grace Coolidge Creek. This gentle route spans 3.5 miles (5.7 km) and involves a modest elevation gain of 171 feet (52 metres), making it perfect for a relaxed outing. You can expect to complete the ride in about 21 minutes, enjoying scenic views as you pass by the historic State Game Lodge. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as mountain goats and buffalo, often seen amidst the trees and unique rock formations that line the trail.

The Grace Coolidge Creekside Trail is easily accessible within Custer State Park, connecting several important points like the Grace Coolidge Campground and the Visitor's Center. You will find convenient access points throughout the park, making it simple to start your ride. While the path is mostly level, be aware that there is one short section near the park office where you might need to walk your bike. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the natural surroundings.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Custer State Park from a different perspective. It provides a direct connection to the Peter Norbeck Education Center, offering insights into the park's ecology and history. The route is particularly notable for its consistent proximity to the creek, providing a calming soundtrack to your journey. It stands out as a family-friendly option for those looking to explore the park's diverse landscapes without strenuous effort.

Embark on the George S. Mickelson Trail Custer Loop for a challenging touring bicycle experience through the scenic Black Hills National Forest. This difficult route spans 25.1 miles (40.4 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 1890 feet (576 metres), typically taking about 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you will encounter diverse landscapes, from dense ponderosa pine forests to open mountain meadows and rugged canyons. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, elk, and wild turkeys, and you will also pass north of the iconic Crazy Horse Monument, offering a unique visual landmark on your journey.

Planning your ride on this trail is straightforward, with 15 accessible trailheads available, including a convenient one located directly in Custer. These trailheads provide essential amenities like parking, self-sale trail pass stations, vault toilets, and picnic tables. Remember that a trail pass is required for all users aged 12 and older to access the route. The crushed limestone and gravel surface is generally well-maintained, making it suitable for most touring cyclists.

This loop offers a deep dive into the natural beauty of the Black Hills, showcasing its unique geology and rich ecosystem. Beyond the varied terrain, the trail provides glimpses of the region's cultural heritage, particularly with its proximity to the Crazy Horse Monument. It stands out as a rewarding option for those seeking a substantial cycling challenge combined with stunning natural vistas and a touch of local history.