Mickelson Trail & The Badlands… (trip)

Mickelson Trail & The Badlands Bike Tour

  • Active & Adventure
Northwest, South Dakota, United States

from $1,750* per person6 DaysSeptember
Boutique accommodations Exertion level: 3
Operator: Wilderness Voyageurs 12 people max

Whether you enjoy history, scenery or just being in the saddle, biking through South Dakota has something for everyone. Beginning in Badlands National Park, you’ll come face-to-face with bison, prairie dogs, big-horned sheep, and the incomparable landscape that the American Lakota called “mako sica,” or “land bad.”

The George S. Mickelson Trail, also known as “The Big Mick,” was dedicated in 1998 in memory of the late governor who acted in strong support of transforming the former rail line into a multi-use trail. As the trail weaves its way through the Black Hills, monuments to Crazy Horse and the founding fathers break up the rolling landscape of an incredible ride.

Locations visited/nearby

Northwest, South Dakota, United States

0 testimonials about this trip.

1 testimonial about the provider, Wilderness Voyageurs:

  • Reviewer: Ellen Goldman located in Phoenix , AZ USA
    "Hi Eric. We wanted to let you know about our experiences whilecycling from Pittsburgh to D.C. If someone had told us 6 months ago that we would be doing this, we would not have believed it. Although we both are physically active, neither of us had ridden bikes since we were much younger. But, our more experienced biker friend (Jay Rochlin) convinced us to start riding, and even provided one of us with a bike. So, after 3 months of training, we set off to Pittsburgh. This trip turned out to be the best vacation we have ever had. One of the major reasons that it was so great was Aaron. We couldn't have asked for a better guide, chef, driver, supporter. We all rate him "exceeds expectations" in all categories we could possibly consider! Not only was he extremely kind, knowledgeable about a multitude of things including bicycles, food, sights, interesting facts, etc, he was also always available when we needed him, and extended himself beyond expectations. And he always had some different snack or food for lunch every day to surprise us and keep us well-fed and energized. Our trip was so well organized and planned out, and yet we felt comfortable altering the schedule when we wanted or needed. The accommodations were wonderful- staying at a different B&B or Inn every night just added to the experience and every place was unique. We couldn't imagine doing the trip without the organization and support provided by all of you. In addition, the bikes we rented were not only new, but excellent for the terrain. It would have been much harder riding without the shocks! Of course, the other factor of the trip was the incredible scenery along the way. We don't even know how to describe how incredibly beautiful it all was. We especially loved the Great Allegheny Passage. To be able to ride for 300 miles on paths through amazingly beautiful country without cars was unbelievable and we can't imagine that any other place could be any better! We are all very proud of ourselves for completing the ride. We hope that Aaron enjoyed us as much as we enjoyed him. :)

    Please pass on our comments to Aaron and everyone else who helped make our trip memorable. We will definitely recommend you to all of our friends. And, hopefully return for a rafting trip next time!

    Thanks to all of you.

    Ellen G & Eddie K

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Itinerary

Day 1: Meet your group in Rapid City, SD and shuttle to the Pinnacles Entrance of Badlands National Park. Glide around its smooth, paved roads and keep your eyes open for bison, prairie dogs and many other native species residing in the park.

 

Day 2: Shuttle from Badlands National Park to mile “0” of the Mickelson rail-trail in Edgemont. Ride north on the crushed limestone surface toward the city of Custer and your lodging for the night.

 

Day 3: Following Custer, ride to the Crazy Horse Memorial statue and into Hill City, home of the South Dakota State Railroad Museum. End your day at the Mystic Trail Head.

 

Day 4: Start riding on the famous Needles Highway, and make your way to Custer State Park. Ride the park’s Wildlife Loop, hopefully catching a glimpse of some of South Dakota’s native wildlife.

 

Day 5: Your final day on the trail. Ride the final miles of the Mickelson Trail all the way to Deadwood, a true wild west town made famous by the murder of Wild Bill Hickok.

 

Day 6: End your trip with a visit to Mount Rushmore, one of our nation’s most magnificent public works of art.

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