Mickelson Trail Bike Tour – Private Guided Cycling Adventure in the Black Hills
RIDE SOUTH DAKOTA’S MOST SCENIC RAIL TRAIL
The George S. Mickelson Trail is one of the premier rail-to-trail experiences in the United States. Stretching 109 miles through the heart of the Black Hills, the trail follows the historic route of the old Burlington Northern Railroad, winding through pine forests, open meadows, granite canyons, tunnels, and over more than 100 railroad bridges.
Our private guided day tour allows you to experience one of the most beautiful sections of the trail without worrying about transportation, route planning, bike logistics, or trail support. Simply show up and enjoy a relaxed day exploring the Black Hills by bike.
This is one of our favorite ways to experience the Black Hills – away from the crowds, immersed in nature, and moving at the perfect speed to truly appreciate the landscape. On top of that, we’ll tailor the experience to your pace, this tour is perfect for all ages and abilities.
How Far We Ride
This private tour is designed exclusively for your group, giving you the flexibility to choose how far you ride. Most guests enjoy the scenic stretch from Dumont or Rochford to Hill City – an 18 to 32 mile ride featuring stunning scenery, historic railroad bridges, and several tunnels. The route begins with a gentle downhill before transitioning into a gradual low grade climb toward Hill City.
Your guide will ride portions of the trail with you and provide full sag support, shuttling along the route to meet you at key points. Whether you’d like help on the hills, prefer to ride a shorter distance, or want to go a bit farther, the experience can be tailored to match your pace and comfort.
Gravel Bikes, E-bikes and Kids Options
Our bike fleet offers options for the whole family to enjoy the trail.
Most riders are outfitted with gravel bikes, perfectly suited for the trail’s smooth, packed surface. Pedal-assist e-bikes are also available and within the scope of those permitted on the trail, making it easy to cover more ground with less effort.
Traveling with kids? We’ve got you covered with youth bikes, trailers, and tag-alongs—so everyone can be part of the ride
Pricing & What’s Included
All tours include bike rental, helmet, trail fee, souvenir water bottle, private guide, onboard snacks and drinks, plus a delicious picnic lunch along the trail.
Pick up is complimentary within central Rapid City. Let us know if you are staying elsewhere and we will work out pick up arrangements with you.
2-person minimum: $395 + tax per person
3–4 people: $310 + tax per person
5–6 people: $260 + tax per person
7+ people: $240 + tax per person
E-bike upgrade: $40 per person
Large groups (10+): inquire for additional discounts
Multi-day discounts available
WHAT YOU’LL SEE
Historic Railroad Tunnels
Ride through some of the trail’s famous tunnels, remnants of the railroad that once connected mining towns throughout the Black Hills. These tunnels are among the most memorable highlights of the Mickelson Trail experience.
Scenic Railroad Bridges
Cross historic bridges while enjoying sweeping views of creeks, forests, and valleys below. The trail contains more than 100 converted railroad bridges throughout its length.
Black Hills Forests
Pedal through quiet pine forests, aspen groves, and peaceful creek valleys. This is a side of the Black Hills many visitors never see from the road.
Historic Mining Country
Travel through areas shaped by the Black Hills gold rush, with opportunities to learn about the railroad, mining history, and the communities that helped build the region.
Wildlife & Nature
Keep an eye out for deer, wild turkey, songbirds, and other wildlife that frequently use the trail corridor.
ABOUT THE GEORGE S. MICKELSON TRAIL
Named after former South Dakota Governor George S. Mickelson, this 109-mile rail trail follows the route of a historic railroad through the Black Hills. Today, it is widely regarded as one of the premier rail-to-trail cycling experiences in America, featuring over 100 converted railroad bridges, several tunnels, gentle grades, and some of the most beautiful scenery in western South Dakota.
Looking to customize your trip?
Make it a full Black Hills adventure by pairing your ride with other iconic stops like Spearfish Canyon, Mount Rushmore, or a scenic drive through Custer State Park. You can also unwind after your ride with local wineries and breweries in Hill City.
Reach out to us and we will help you customize a perfect Black Hills outing.
FAQs
The Mickelson Trail follows a former railroad corridor, meaning grades are generally gentle and manageable for most riders. Many guests are surprised by how approachable the trail is. With E-bikes, the trail really is achievable for most ages and ability levels.
Not at all. We welcome riders of varying abilities and can recommend distances that suit your experience level.
Yes. Pedal-assist e-bikes are available for an additional fee and are a great option for riders wanting a little extra assistance along the trail.
Most guests ride between 18 and 32 miles, although distances can be customized for your group.
Absolutely. We offer youth bikes, trailers, tag-alongs, and route options suitable for families.
Most guests ride high-quality gravel bikes, specifically chosen for the smooth crushed limestone surface of the Mickelson Trail. E-bike upgrades are also available.
This is a private tour, which gives us the ability to completely tailor the ride to your groups pace and preferences.
Keepsake Jersey
Take a piece of the Mickelson Trail with you—our custom jersey is designed for comfort, performance, and lasting memories of your ride.
- Departure Time8:30am
- Return Time3:30pm
- IncludedTransportationProfessional Local GuideBike Rental, helmet and Souvenir waterbottlePicnic LunchHotel pick up (Rapid City)Trail FeeMake it easy, no logistics, just show up!
- Not IncludedEbike - available for a feeOptional gratuities
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