George S. Mickelson Trail
🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 Black Hills Rail Trail — 109-mile trail along a historic railroad grade through the Black Hills — the LONGEST rail trail in the US on a single converted railroad
George S. Mickelson Trail is a 109-mile rail trail running through the heart of the Black Hills — from Deadwood to Edgemont — following the route of the historic Burlington Northern railroad grade. The trail passes through 100+ converted railroad bridges and 4 rock tunnels blasted through Black Hills granite. Named for Governor George S. Mickelson (1941–1993) who championed the trail before his death in a plane crash, the Mickelson Trail is considered one of the finest rail trails in America — traversing stunning Black Hills scenery including ponderosa pine forests, mountain meadows, and historic mining towns.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Deadwood to Edgemont, Black Hills, SD |
| Length | 109 miles! |
| Entry Fee | Trail pass required ($4/day) |
| Features | 100+ bridges, 4 tunnels! |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bike the whole 109 miles?
Yes! Many cyclists ride the full 109 miles in 3–4 days, staying in trail-side towns like Lead, Hill City, and Custer. The trail is crushed limestone with a gentle grade (never exceeding 4%) since it follows a railroad route. Trailhead parking and services are available at 15 points along the trail.
About the Mickelson Trail
The George S. Mickelson Trail is a 109-mile rail-trail traversing the Black Hills from Deadwood to Edgemont — one of the premier trails in the American West. The trail follows the former Burlington Northern railroad through ponderosa pine forests, past abandoned gold mines, over more than 100 converted railroad bridges, and through 4 rock tunnels. The Black Hills are a sacred landscape to the Lakota people — an island of mountains rising from the Great Plains.
Things to Do
Biking and hiking the 109-mile trail, crossing historic railroad bridges and tunnels, visiting Deadwood (Wild West gambling town), wildlife viewing for deer and wild turkeys, exploring gold rush history, and riding through the spectacular Black Hills landscape. Trail pass required.
🚴 Visit George S. Mickelson Trail
109 miles through the Black Hills — 100 bridges, 4 tunnels, pure magic!
