Early registration check-in:
Thursday, June 20, 2024
from 2:00 - 7:00 PM
Location: Custer Chamber, Custer, SD

South Dakota's George S. Mickelson Trail is more than just a recreation Trail; it's a trail of history.
You have the opportunity to travel the same path as General George A. Custer, Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane and Potato Creek Johnny.

Burlington Northern built this rail line over 100 years ago to accommodate the miners who had rushed to the area to pan for gold. In 1983, rail travel ceased and this incredible trail was envisioned. After years of planning, hard work, and determination the trail became a reality.

Riders can enjoy the beauty of the heart of the Black Hills as they travel through the scenic valleys, old railroad tunnels, and historic mining towns.

The registration fee for the 3-day ride entitles riders to full amenities during the Mickelson Trail Summer Trek, including: shuttle service, merchandise, refreshments, 3 meals and 6 snacks. Registration packets and additional ride information will be distributed either Thursday at Early Bird Check- In or on Friday morning at the Custer Chamber.

About the Trail
The Trail is a former railroad bed that has been resurfaced with crushed limestone.
The 109 mile route was inducted into the national Rail-Trail Hall of Fame in 2010.
A mountain bike is by far the bicycle of choice.
A road bike with narrow tires will not work.
Pedal Assist E-bikes are welcome. All battery charging will be the responsibility of the rider, the Mickelson Trail does not have charging stations.

Weather & Clothing
Elevations along the trail vary from a low 3,400 feet at Edgemont to a height of nearly 6,350 feet near Dumont, temperatures will vary widely due to changes in the elevation. Also, the temperatures will probably be cool in the mornings and evenings (50-65 degrees) and warm during the day (75-90 degrees). It is possible to have mid-afternoon rain and/ or hailstorms.

Layered clothing is strongly suggested in order to accommodate the weather. Major swings in temperatures can take place in a few minutes.

Although you will have to carry all that you need, make certain you have what you need to be comfortable and safe. There is a risk of both hypothermia (low body temperature) and hyperthermia (high body temperature). There are several long upgrades and corresponding downgrades on the trail. You will sweat going up so have clothing to put on so you do not get chilled on the ride down.

It is critical to drink fluids on the ride to avoid dehydration. Bring full water containers and fill them up at every opportunity. For long distance; padded bicycle shorts and gloves are recommended. Lycra tights are great for cool mornings and evenings.

BE SURE TO REMEMBER YOUR HELMET!! They are mandatory!

Safety
OBEY ALL TRAFFIC SIGNS - People on bicycles must yield to pedestrians and everyone must yield to horses. - Stay to the right of the trail except when passing. - When stopping, announce before you stop saying "STOPPING" in a loud voice. Visually make sure those behind you hear you. - Once you stop, get yourself and your bicycle off to the RIGHT SIDE of the trail. - There may be a long line of riders. Be aware of those around you. Use caution so you are not part of a "domino" crash. - Stay on the trail and be considerate of other users. - All pets must be on leashes. - Do not disturb wildlife or farm animals along the trail. - Avoid disturbing natural resources. - Smoking is not allowed along the trail. - Please respect the landowners along the trail. We are guests in their backyards. - All trail users age 12 and older are required to have a trail pass.

Thursday, June 20
Early Bird Check-in 2:00 PM -7:00 PM.
Location: Custer Chamber, Custer, SD

Driver ONLY shuttle vehicle to Edgemont
4:30-6 PM- Bus leaves Edgemont to Shuttle driver back to Custer Staggered times
(last bus leaves Edgemont @ 6:00 PM)

Friday, June 21
Check-in Location: Custer Chamber in Custer
6:00 AM
- Driver ONLY shuttle vehicle to Edgemont
- 6:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bus leaves Edgemont to shuttle driver back to Custer (last bus leaves @ 8:15 AM)
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM Start: Bicycle from Custer to Edgemont (44.5 miles)
- Breaks and lunch included
- Riders and bikes return to Custer
- Mickelson Trail Cash provided for evening meal (see list in registration packet)

Saturday, June 22
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM Start: Bicycle from Custer to Rochford (39.5 miles)
-Bicycles stored in secured area in Rochford
-Shuttle buses return riders to Custer
-Breakfast and evening meal on your own
-Breaks and lunch included

Sunday, June 23
-Riders drive to Deadwood Trailhead
-Shuttle buses take riders to Rochford (7am-9am/ last bus leaves Deadwood at 9am)
7:00 AM - 9:00 AM Start: Bicycle from Rochford to Deadwood (24 miles)
-Ride ends in Deadwood where participant's vehicles are parked-Lunch Deadwood Gold Bucks provided
-Breakfast on your own
-Breaks included

Lodging will be the riders' responsibility. The ride starts in Custer on Friday and Saturday and in Deadwood on Sunday, so plan your lodging accordingly. For information on area hotels and attractions, contact the following Chamber of Commerce offices:

• Spearfish 800-626-8013
  
• Lead 605-580-7393
  
• Deadwood 800-999-1876
  
• Custer 605-673-2244
  
• Hill City 605-574-2368
  
• Hot Springs 605-745-4140
  
• Rapid City 800-487-3223
  
• Edgemont 605-662-5900

Another option is to contact Travel South Dakota. They have information for all of your travel needs including hotel accommodations, camp site reservations, rental cars, airline reservations. Attractions admissions, gaming coupons and more!

For more lodging information:
visit their website at www.travelsouthdakota.com

Lodging will not be provided for any riders.

For event-related questions, please click on the Contact the Organizers button on the left-hand side of this page.