Mickelson Trail Active Family Trip

*Please note this itinerary is customizable for longer or shorter trips (2 to 8 days) or to include alternative activities.  Many families opt to ride shorter days on the Mickelson Trail, which allows for more time sightseeing and other activities.  Any of these day rides are easily shortened as most areas of this trail are in close proximity to a road and most days pass through a number of other trailheads.  Please inquire for more info by contacting us here.

Day 1

Deadwood to Rochford   26.2 miles- Do all, none or just part of this section

This section of the Mickelson Trail winds its way through some of the steeper terrain in the hills, heading through the Mickelson’s first tunnel to the old mining town of Rochford.  Average ride time for this day is 3-4 hours.  Optional afternoon activity is a trip across the border into Wyoming and up to Devil’s Tower.

Lodging: Deadwood Mountain Grand, Deadwood       Dinner: On your own in Deadwood

Day 2

Rochford to Hill City     22.5 miles

One of the most beautiful days on the Mickelson Trail, today features numerous old railroad bridges and tunnels!  Hill City is a cute little tourist town in the heart of the Black Hills.  After the morning’s ride, we will head out to view the famous granite faces on Mt. Rushmore in person, followed by an afternoon of fun at Cosmos Mystery Area or Rushmore Tramway Adventure Park.

Lodging: Hill City       Dinner: Alpine Inn

Day 3

Hill City to Custer     15.6 miles

The day has a good climb, but overall is a lighter day than the two previous days’ rides.  We set  it up this way so you’ll have plenty left to the day to enjoy this stunning area of the Black Hills!  Home to the granite spires and Sylvan Lake, the scenery is like no other.  Spend the day lounging and playing around Sylvan lake or do one of several hikes with views of, or that summit Black Elk Peak- the highest peak in the Black Hills!  You can also opt to spend the day learning to rock climb with Sylvan Rocks Climbing School. We take an evening cruise through Custer State Park’s wildlife loop, which is home to one of the largest herds of buffalo in North America and a herd of friendly burros!

Lodging: Sylvan Lake Lodge     Dinner: Black Hills Burger and Bun

Day 4

Custer to Minnekahta Trailhead   28.3 Miles- Ride all or just part of this section

While on paper this is the longest ride of the week, this portion of the Mickelson Trail is quite moderate with a slight downhill slope that makes for quick easy riding.  Upon reaching the Minnekahta trailhead, we will venture over to the town of Hot Springs to visit the Mammoth Site and a soak in some hot springs!

Lodging:  Hot springs    Dinner: TBD

Day 5

Minnekahta Trailhead to Edgemont   16.2 miles

Ride it out today!  Depending on departure time, we have time to do a trip to drive or ride through the Badlands or just back up to Rapid City.  We do offer a full day extension for a longer day in the Badlands as well.