The best cycling routes in Black Hills National Forest

Black Hills National Forest offers nearly 30 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult paths, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.

The terrain in Black Hills National Forest is diverse, ranging from crushed limestone rail-trails with gentle grades to more challenging routes through dense ponderosa pine forests and scenic canyons. While some paths like sections of the George S. Mickelson Trail are accessible to most, others feature significant elevation changes, with the forest itself ranging from 3,000 to over 7,000 feet in elevation. Overall, there are 3 easy, 10 moderate, and 16 difficult routes available.

Yes, the Black Hills National Forest offers routes suitable for families. The George S. Mickelson Trail is particularly well-suited for families due to its gentle grades and crushed limestone surface, built on an abandoned railroad bed. Shorter sections of this trail can be enjoyed for day trips.

Cycling in Black Hills National Forest offers access to stunning natural features and iconic landmarks. You can encounter granite spires like the Needles, dramatic canyon walls in Spearfish Canyon, and diverse ecosystems from prairie grasslands to dense forests. Notable landmarks include Mount Rushmore and Black Elk Peak, the highest point east of the Rockies. Many routes also pass by crystal-clear lakes such as Sylvan Lake.

Yes, the Black Hills region is home to several beautiful waterfalls, particularly within Spearfish Canyon. While cycling, you might find yourself near highlights such as Waterfall by Rochford Road, Bridal Veil Falls, Spearfish Falls, and View of Roughlock Falls.

The best time for touring cycling in Black Hills National Forest is typically from late spring through early fall. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are clear of snow. The diverse ecosystems offer vibrant colors in spring and fall, and the summer provides warm, sunny days ideal for exploring.

Yes, there are circular routes for touring cyclists. For example, the George S. Mickelson Trail Custer Loop offers a challenging 25-mile (40.4 km) ride with significant elevation gain. Another option is the Custer State Park loop via Grace Coolidge Creekside Trail, which is a 32.4-mile (52.1 km) difficult route.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique blend of scenic landscapes, the accessibility of trails like the Mickelson Trail, and the opportunity to encounter diverse wildlife and historical markers along the routes.

Yes, the varied habitats of Black Hills National Forest support abundant wildlife. Cyclists often have the chance to spot bighorn sheep, elk, deer, bison, mountain goats, and various bird species like falcons and hawks, especially in areas like Custer State Park.

Many routes in the Black Hills connect to or pass near historic towns and attractions. For instance, the George S. Mickelson Trail runs from Deadwood to Edgemont, passing through areas rich in Gold Rush history. The route from Hill City to Keystone via Old Hill City Route also connects two notable towns, offering access to attractions like Mount Rushmore nearby.

One of the longer touring cycling routes is the Custer State Park loop via Grace Coolidge Creekside Trail, which spans 32.4 miles (52.1 km) and typically takes around 3 hours 36 minutes to complete.