Pedal your way into adventure with bicycling in the Black Hills and Badlands.
Exploring the region on bicycle is a freeing, enjoyable, and scenic opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region up close. The Black Hills and Badlands includes miles of trails dedicated to bicycling, and several areas offer opportunity to share the roadway with views of granite spires and iconic monuments like Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial® along the way.
As you venture into the Black Hills and Badlands this fall, let us guide you to some favorite trails and community cycling events.
Bicycling Trails
Whether you enjoy the adrenaline rush of mountain biking or a peaceful cruise along the George S. Mickelson Trail, biking trails are available throughout the Black Hills and Badlands for all ages and all abilities.
The George S. Mickelson Trail is a 109-mile crushed gravel, nonmotorized trail system that rolls through pine forests, along streams, through towering spires and across Western South Dakota prairies. The Mickelson Trail will offer stunning fall foliage that you can soak in while pedaling at your own pace. With trailheads located throughout the region, it is an accessible bicycling route during your visit.
If you prefer to send it, miles of mountain biking trails wait for that heart-pumping adventurous rush! Trail systems are available for beginner to advanced riders. More than 100 miles of the Centennial Trail are open for mountain biking and the Big Hill Trails in Spearfish, or the Sturgis Trail System in Sturgis, are excellent mountain biking areas. Once the snow flies, bicycling opportunities do not end. Fat biking is a winter riding pastime in the Black Hills and Badlands, and cyclists can ride on any trails that are also designated for mountain biking.
But you don’t have to travel far to find a bicycling route. Urban trail systems in Rapid City and paved bike paths throughout Black Hills and Badlands communities offer adventure near other amenities in the region, as well.
Events on Two Wheels
Cycling culture in the Black Hills and Badlands is a hidden gem, built on community and camaraderie and the best way to experience this is by joining an event. Hit the road for Wheelin’ to Wall in September, riding through the epic Badlands National Park, or cruise through the snow during the Winter’s Fat Classic every February. Summer bike races and festivals like the Pine Island Gravel Odyssey and the 109-mile Mickelson Trail Trek make great destination experiences.
Rent a Bike
If you do not bring your own bicycle to explore, regional communities have a variety of opportunities to rent bicycles during your visit to the region. Check out Black Hills Power Bikes, Rentals & Boutique in Custer or Bicycles & Boats in Hill City for a set of rented wheels.
Safety First
Always wear a helmet, whether you’re riding on a local bike path or a roadway. We also recommend flashing lights to alert drivers – and other pedestrians - that a bicyclist is on the road.
Wear bright clothing and make sure you have a light that alerts traffic you are sharing the roadway.
Dress in layers. The fall will greet you with crisp autumn mornings before the sun peaks out above the pines and granite spires.
Properly fuel. Carry ample water and snacks with you no matter the length of the ride.