Waterfall by Rochford Road

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.

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.

Cycle a difficult 45.8-mile loop combining the George S. Mickelson Trail and Pactola Reservoir in the Black Hills National Forest.