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Mickelson Trail gets traction as outdoor destination

DEADWOOD (10/2/09) – In its 12th year since completion, the Mickelson Trail through the Black Hills of South Dakota has become one of the most popular biking, hiking and riding trails in the Midwest. The 109-mile trail runs from Deadwood to Edgemont, spanning some of the most scenic backcountry of the Black Hills.

The Mickelson Trail follows the original Burlington Northern Railroad line through the Black Hills, which was abandoned in 1983. The trail crosses more than 100 converted railroad bridges and passes through four rock tunnels.  You will also experience rustic areas such as Rochford, Mystic and Pringle.

There are also larger towns that help make up the trail ambiance such as Edgemont, Custer, Hill City, Lead and Deadwood, where you can find restaurants, lodging, equipment, repairs and shuttle services.

Most of the trail is surfaced with crushed limestone. There are 14 trailheads which all offer parking, self-sale trail pass stations, vault toilets and tables. Water is also accessible at most of the trailheads.  Most of the trail will find grades that are no steeper than 4 percent, however there are a couple more strenuous stretches.

Users can also take advantage of branch trails leading towards Custer State Park or Deerfield Reservoir.

Dana Garry, trail manager with the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks Department, said use of the trail has increased every year since 1998. However, it is far from crowded. “There’s 109 miles to spread out on,” she said. “People from all over the world have ridden the trail, and they tell me it is one of the most beautiful trails they have ever been on.”

The Mickelson Trail also hosts special events such as the Big Mick ride and the Deadwood Mickelson Trail Marathon both, take place in June.  The Lean Horse Ultra-marathon, with courses stretching 100 miles, 50 miles and 50,000 meters (about 31 miles), takes place on the Mickelson Trail near Hot Springs each August.  The Mickelson Trail Trek, which is a bike ride celebrating the conversion of the trail, occurs on the third weekend of September.

It is open to all forms of non-motorized use, including hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and horseback riding.

The Mickelson is also becoming a popular winter trail. Snowmobiles are allowed to ride a small stretch of the trail just south of Deadwood, while cross-country skiers, hikers and snowshoe enthusiasts alike, also make tracks on its snow covered surface throughout the winter. The Mickelson Trail office loans out snowshoes to people who want to try the sport. In addition, snowshoe events are scheduled on the trail in January and February.

For information about the Mickelson Trail, call the Black Hills Trails Office at (605) 584-3896 or contact Garry at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .