Depending on time of day and the time of year, you can ride your bike on the Mickelson Trail and feel like you have the whole Black Hills to yourself. It’s 109 miles long, with few populated places along the way. You can go for miles sometimes without seeing other travelers.
But if you crave the comeraderie of fellow bicyclists, you might want to give the Mickelston Trail a spin in September. The 11th annual Mickelson Trail Trek is a supported group tour, beginning Sept. 19, that covers the entire trail from Edgemont to Deadwood over three days.
Last year, a record 545 riders joined the Trail Trek, including 21 who have made the trip every year since the first ride in 1998, according to the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks.
“The annual supported ride highlights the George S. Mickelson Trail as it winds through the heart of the Black Hills from Edgemont to Lead/Deadwood. The ride began in 1998 as a celebration of the completion of the rails-to-trails project. The Trek continues today to introduce new bicyclists to the trail and to thank supporters for their long-standing enthusiasm for the trail,” the GFP said.
Organizers warn that elevations vary from 3,400 feet above sea level at Edgemont to 6,350 feet near Dumont. So bring clothes for hot weather, cold weather and wet weather. There’s a good chance you’ll see all three in a single day.
The registration fee, $175, covers the trail pass, shuttle service, commemorative souvenirs, refreshments and meals. You have to pay for your own nightly lodging. To arrange lodging, you can contact Black Hills Central Reservations. They can book hotel accommodations, camp site reservations, rental cars, airline reservations and more. Call (800) 529-0105 or visit www.BlackHillsVacations.com.
You can register for the ride online at www.MickelsonTrail.com and by following the “Trail Trek” link.
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