- A Black Hills’ mountain bike or road bike adventure is a perfect summer or fall activity.
- Several companies offer daily bike rentals, shuttle service, and multi-day cycling tours.
- Cruise down Centennial Trail, George S. Mickelson Trail, and more.
Overview
Bring your bike or schedule a cycling tour and explore the Black Hills' peaks and plains on two wheels. Whether a mountain or road cyclist, thousands of miles await you, ideal for summer and fall travel. Experienced riders will find challenging trails, and novices can join an easy tour or ride in more gentle areas. Several well-established bike rental and touring companies operate in this region.
Road Biking/Cycling Tours
Enjoy the scenic highways on these popular routes:
- Rapid City to Mount Rushmore: Begin by riding 13.5 miles within Rapid City, following Rapid Creek. Then, head southwest for 18 gorgeous miles in Black Hills National Forest.
- Custer State Park/Needles Highway: Needles Highway (SD 87) features towering, granite peaks rising above the terrain and wildlife such as bison, antelope, and big horn sheep roaming the landscape.
Mountain Biking
Black Hills mountain biking is a popular summer activity, with 6000 miles of trails and logging roads at your disposal. Try:
- Centennial Trail: This 111-mile stretch of single track is perfect for experienced riders seeking a challenge. With starting and ending points in Bear Butte State Park and Wind Cave National Park, ride to your heart’s content.
- Bear Mountain Trail: This 16.1 mile path leads you through the trees and limestone formations of Black Hills National Forest.
- George S. Mickelson Trail: This 109-mile long trail connects tunnels and converted railroad bridges and is comprised of crushed limestone and gravel. Road cyclists and mountain bikers alike enjoy this spectacular trail as it winds from Deadwood to Edgemont. Bicyclists over 16 years of age must purchase a Mickelson Trail pass - $2/day or $6/annual.
- Terry Peak Ski Area: Offers a variety of cross country and downhill mountain biking trails. The chairlift will take you to the top on a few select Saturdays in the summer. Otherwise, you can simply bike up and back down.
- Black Hills Mountain Bike Association Recommended Trails
- Black Hills National Forest Recommended Trails
