The best traffic-free bike rides in Lawrence County
5.0
(1)
29
riders
3
rides
No traffic gravel bike trails in Lawrence County traverse quiet farmland roads and challenging rolling hills, offering picturesque pasture views. The region features diverse landscapes, including routes around Lone Star Lake and over the historic Chicken Creek Arch Bridge, with some sections along the Santa Fe Trail. Roads vary from loose, chunky gravel to hard-packed surfaces and smooth dirt, providing an authentic gravel grinding experience. The area is recognized for its bicycle-friendly community, making it suitable for dedicated gravel biking.
…Last updated: May 10, 2026
13
riders
75.5km
04:34
960m
960m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
54.8km
03:25
790m
790m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
90.8km
06:02
1,170m
1,170m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in Lawrence County
Tips from the Community
At Dumont Trailhead, you'll find a water refill station to keep your hydration levels up before heading out. Restrooms are available for a quick pit stop, and there are picnic tables nearby if you'd like to relax or have a snack before heading back out onto the trail.
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After following Rochford Road for a while, the Mickelson trail switches back to unpaved roads. This section is on wonderful gravel and packed dirt. The scenery around the path in wonderful and with no cars around, you can enjoy it at your own pace.
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There are a good number of tunnels along the George S. Mickelson Trail, and this one’s a standout. Carved right into the rock and surrounded by forest, it’s a cool little detour from the open trail. It gets pretty dark inside, so having a flashlight or headlamp on hand isn’t a bad idea.
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You’ll see Ponderosa Pines all over the Black Hills, as they’re the most common tree in the area. These tall, straight pines grow in big numbers and give the forest its distinct look (and scent, their bark smells a bit like vanilla when it’s warm out). They’re great for shade on hot days and make the trails feel peaceful and quiet. If you’re hiking anywhere near Custer, Sylvan Lake, or along the Centennial Trail, you’ll definitely be walking through them.
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Although Mount Rushmore is further away, this unexpected Abraham Lincoln statue along the George S. Mickelson Trail adds a bit of history to your hike. Installed as part of a series honoring U.S. presidents, it’s a quirky reminder of South Dakota’s deep ties to American history.
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This is a lovely spot on the George S. Mickelson Trail to see grazing cows and other local wildlife. This stretch through Black Hills National Forest is quiet and open, worth a short stop.
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Deadwood, South Dakota, holds a significant place in American history as a legendary Wild West town. It is renowned for its gold rush heritage and association with iconic figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Today, it retains its historic charm through preserved 19th-century architecture, casinos, and museums that detail its colorful past.
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Deadwood, South Dakota, holds a significant place in American history as a legendary Wild West town. Known for its gold rush heritage and association with iconic figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Today, it retains its historic charm with preserved 19th-century architecture, casinos and museums detailing its colorful past.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in Lawrence County?
Currently, there are 3 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails listed in Lawrence County, all offering challenging rides for experienced cyclists. These routes are designed to provide an immersive experience away from vehicular traffic.
What kind of terrain and difficulty can I expect on these gravel bike trails?
The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Lawrence County are generally considered difficult, featuring significant elevation gains. For example, the Waterfall by Rochford Road – Bridge loop from Roubaix Lake covers over 90 km with more than 1100 meters of climbing. Riders should be prepared for challenging ascents and descents.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the routes?
Yes, Lawrence County is rich in natural beauty. Many routes offer access to stunning natural monuments and viewpoints. You can discover beautiful waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls, Spearfish Falls, and the View of Roughlock Falls. The scenic Spearfish Canyon is also a prominent feature in the area.
Are the gravel bike trails in Lawrence County suitable for beginners?
The currently listed no-traffic gravel bike trails in Lawrence County are rated as difficult due to their length and significant elevation changes. They are best suited for experienced gravel cyclists looking for a challenging ride. Beginners might find these routes overly demanding.
What is the longest no-traffic gravel bike trail available?
The longest no-traffic gravel bike trail is the Waterfall by Rochford Road – Bridge loop from Roubaix Lake, which spans over 90 kilometers and includes more than 1100 meters of elevation gain.
Can I find loop routes for gravel biking in Lawrence County?
Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike trails currently featured are loop routes, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Grazing cows – Abraham Lincoln statue loop from Deadwood and the Deadwood – Grazing cows loop from Deadwood.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Lawrence County?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Lawrence County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the challenging terrain, the beautiful natural scenery, and the opportunity for long, uninterrupted rides away from traffic.
Are there any specific trails or sections known for their unique gravel experience?
Yes, the area includes sections like the Beautiful dirt section of George S. Mickelson Trail, which offers a distinct gravel riding experience. These sections contribute to the authentic feel of the no-traffic routes.
What is the typical duration for completing these gravel bike routes?
Given their length and difficulty, these routes typically require several hours to complete. For instance, the Grazing cows – Abraham Lincoln statue loop from Deadwood is estimated to take over 4.5 hours, while the Waterfall by Rochford Road – Bridge loop from Roubaix Lake can take more than 6 hours.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest to look out for?
Beyond the natural features, the routes offer glimpses of the region's character. The Grazing cows – Abraham Lincoln statue loop from Deadwood, for example, hints at historical and pastoral elements. Riders can also pass through areas near the Spearfish city suburb, offering a blend of natural and developed landscapes.
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