Embark on an extraordinary adventure through the Black Hills, surrounding yourself in captivating landscapes of the two longest and most iconic trails found in South Dakota. The George S. Mickelson Trail and the Centennial Trail are both found in western South Dakota weaving through incredible scenic wonders and linking together some of the area’s top scenic locations. Read on to discover the history of both and why you should explore them. 

 

The Mickelson Trail

 

Traveling for 109 miles, the George S. Mickelson Trail cuts a course through the heart of the Black Hills National Forest. Crossing creeks, hugging granite walls, and cutting through mountains – guiding trail users through a variety of breathtaking terrains and showing off some of the best views in the area.

 

Two bikers riding Mickelson Trail in South Dakota during the fall
 


Originally, this route was created for the Burlington Northern line railroad which serviced the mines in the Black Hills during the Black Hills Gold Rush. It was abandoned in 1983, and stayed that way until a group of outdoor enthusiasts saw the route’s potential to be converted into a public trail for hiking and biking. With the support of Governor George Mickelson, the trails namesake, it became the state’s first rails to trails project completed in September of 1998.

 

two bikers exiting one of the tunnels found along the rails to trails route of the george s mickelson trail in the black hills
 


The Mickelson Trail is great for all experience levels since the majority of the trail doesn’t exceed a four percent grade and it offers easy access points with 15 trailheads. Along with stunning scenery, the trail includes more than 100 converted railroad bridges and four incredibly cool tunnels. While the trail is generally moderate, there are portions that are more strenuous than others, like Dumont - which is the highest point of the trail. The 19 miles from Deadwood to Dumont is the longest portion of incline trail users will experience. You can take advantage of the incline by traveling the opposite direction on the trail or choose a different section of the trail that better suits your preferences. 

If you or someone in your group has physical limitations, the Trolley on the Trail event offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty of the Mickelson Trail. On select dates throughout the summer, individuals with a handicap parking permit, along with a companion, can reserve a spot on the trolley. For more information about this event, reach out to the Mickelson Trail office at 605.584.3896.

 

The Centennial Trail

 

Spanning 111 miles, this long-distance hiking trail winds through the mesmerizing Black Hills National Forest connecting Wind Cave National Park to Bear Butte State Park. 

 

hiker enjoying the overlook from the centennial trail in south dakota at sheridan lake in the black hills
 


Established in 1989, the Centennial Trail was created to celebrate South Dakota’s 100th anniversary of statehood (1889) and represents the diverse terrain found here. From the grasslands near Bear Butte to the high country of the Black Hills, the trail skirts stunning lakes and crosses babbling creeks. The Centennial Trail even passes within one mile of Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

A little fun fact: when you see the trail marker, it’s marked with the number “89” from the date of South Dakota’s statehood.

 

Two hikers cross a bridge on the spring creek portion of the centennial trail in south dakota
 


All sections of the Centennial Trail are open to hiking. Mountain biking and horseback riding are allowed on all portions of the trail except within Wind Cave National Park and the eastern portion of Bear Butte State Park. Small portions of the trail between Pilot Knob Trailhead and Dalton Trailhead can be used for motorized vehicles. Make sure to follow all allowed trail use signs and research the portions of the trail you plan to explore. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and to bring plenty of water and snacks. 

*Construction on Highway 385 does disrupt a portion of the Centennial Trail. Learn more here. 

 

Tours, Rentals and Shuttle Services

 

Let a local tour company be your guide! Black Hills Adventure Tours, Black Hills Tour Company and Dave's World Tours all offer various tour options for the Mickelson Trail. Find one that best suits you, so you experience the beauty of this trail with ease. 

 

bike tour on the mickelson trail in the black hills of south dakota
 


Just need a bike rental without a tour? Contact our friends at Acme Bicycles. They’ve partnered with Black Hills Paddlesports, located near the Mickelson Trail, to offer electric bike rentals. Looking for a ride to the trail? Roam’n Around, Rapid City’s locally owned outdoor gear store offers shuttle services to both the Mickelson Trail and Centennial Trail. 

The wild west is on full display when you journey along these two iconic trails. Exciting views wait around every corner including a wide range of wildlife, making it an unforgettable experience. When you do encounter wildlife, please keep a safe distance of at least 25 yards away. Help us maintain the beauty of the Black Hills by leaving no trace as you explore and packing out any trash or food residue you bring along. 

Find more activities and spots to explore during your Rapid City vacation in the related content below. Or get your hands on the best planning resource out there by requesting or downloading our free Rapid City Guide. 

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