Ride a private 20-mile section of the Mickelson Trail through the Black Hills—two tunnels, a historic railroad bridge, and rolling limestone grades. This daylong guided tour supplies bikes, lunch, and local history for a moderate family-friendly ride.
Ride a private 20-mile section of the Mickelson Trail through the Black Hills—two tunnels, a historic railroad bridge, and rolling limestone grades. This daylong guided tour supplies bikes, lunch, and local history for a moderate family-friendly ride.
You roll out beneath pines and prairie sky, tires crunching on crushed limestone as the Black Hills open ahead. The air smells of resin and late-summer grass; the trail dips into tunnels carved through granite and lifts onto a historic railroad bridge with the valley spreading out below. This is the Mickelson Trail, and a private 20-mile segment gives a concentrated taste of the 109-mile rail-trail that links Edgemont to Deadwood.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Black Hills Adventure Tours, Inc · Hill City, South Dakota
You roll out beneath pines and prairie sky, tires crunching on crushed limestone as the Black Hills open ahead. The air smells of resin and late-summer grass; the trail dips into tunnels carved through granite and lifts onto a historic railroad bridge with the valley spreading out below. This is the Mickelson Trail, and a private 20-mile segment gives a concentrated taste of the 109-mile rail-trail that links Edgemont to Deadwood.
The corridor follows a defunct Burlington Northern line built during the late 19th century to haul timber and ore; the same cut-and-fill work that shaped regional development now shapes your route. Geologically, you ride along uplifted Precambrian granite and schist, with outcrops and morning sun throwing long shadows across the limestone surface. Culturally, the Black Hills are Lakota country and a hub of frontier mining history—small towns you pass whisper those stories in restored depots and interpretive signs.
Practically, the 20-mile stretch is rated moderate: expect rolling grades rather than sustained climbs, two short tunnels, and at least one steel railroad bridge with open deck sides. The tour provides your bike (mountain or comfort), helmet, bottled water, snacks and lunch, and lasts most of the day, allowing time for stops and photos.
Plan for variable weather—layers, sun protection, and steady hydration matter. Choose a front-mounted pack or saddlebag for pockets and camera. If you’re bringing kids, check the comfort-bike option and ask about infant seats. Ride steady, respect other trail users, and leave room to look: the Black Hills will reward pauses with views that push you forward.
The riding portion covers about 20 miles and is scheduled within an overall 6–8 hour tour that includes transport, lunch and stops.
Yes—mountain or comfort bikes, helmets, bottled water and protective gear are included in the tour price.
Yes; the trail's crushed-limestone surface and moderate grades make this segment family-friendly, though parents should assess stamina for 20 miles and request comfort bikes or infant seats when booking.
Dress in layers, bring sun protection and a light rain shell; tours typically run year-round but conditions vary by season and elevation.
Black Hills Adventure Tours, Inc operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You roll out beneath pines and prairie sky, tires crunching on crushed limestone as the Black Hills open ahead. The air smells of resin and late-summer grass; the trail dips into tunnels carved through granite and lifts onto a historic railroad bridge with the valley spreading out below. This is the Mickelson Trail, and a private 20-mile segment gives a concentrated taste of the 109-mile rail-trail that links Edgemont to Deadwood.
You roll out beneath pines and prairie sky, tires crunching on crushed limestone as the Black Hills open ahead. The air smells of resin and late-summer grass; the trail dips into tunnels carved through granite and lifts onto a historic railroad bridge with the valley spreading out below. This is the Mickelson Trail, and a private 20-mile segment gives a concentrated taste of the 109-mile rail-trail that links Edgemont to Deadwood.
The corridor follows a defunct Burlington Northern line built during the late 19th century to haul timber and ore; the same cut-and-fill work that shaped regional development now shapes your route. Geologically, you ride along uplifted Precambrian granite and schist, with outcrops and morning sun throwing long shadows across the limestone surface. Culturally, the Black Hills are Lakota country and a hub of frontier mining history—small towns you pass whisper those stories in restored depots and interpretive signs.
Practically, the 20-mile stretch is rated moderate: expect rolling grades rather than sustained climbs, two short tunnels, and at least one steel railroad bridge with open deck sides. The tour provides your bike (mountain or comfort), helmet, bottled water, snacks and lunch, and lasts most of the day, allowing time for stops and photos.
Plan for variable weather—layers, sun protection, and steady hydration matter. Choose a front-mounted pack or saddlebag for pockets and camera. If you’re bringing kids, check the comfort-bike option and ask about infant seats. Ride steady, respect other trail users, and leave room to look: the Black Hills will reward pauses with views that push you forward.