George S. Mickelson Trail: Hill City to Custer

While the George S. Mickelson Trail is generally known for its gentle grades due to its 'rails to trails' conversion, the section from Hill City towards Custer does include a notable climb. You'll experience an ascent of about 1000 feet over approximately 10 miles, particularly around the Crazy Horse Monument area. After this initial climb, the trail becomes mostly downhill into Custer. Overall, it's often described as Easy to Moderate, but be prepared for the sustained uphill section.

The trail surface is primarily crushed limestone and gravel, making it suitable for hiking. As a former railroad bed, the grades are mostly gentle, rarely exceeding 4 percent. You'll traverse mountainous areas, corridors of ponderosa pine forests, high mountain meadows, and more open prairie as the landscape gradually changes between Hill City and Custer.

Hikers are treated to diverse and picturesque scenery through the Black Hills, including spruce and ponderosa pine forests, meandering creeks, towering rock formations, and sprawling meadows. A significant highlight on this stretch is the opportunity to view the Crazy Horse Memorial. The views are particularly vibrant with wildflowers in spring and summer, and stunning autumn colors.

As the trail passes through national forest land, you have a good chance of spotting diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, coyotes, and wild turkeys. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to observe.

Yes, a daily trail pass is required for all users aged 12 and older. These passes can be purchased at self-sale stations located at the trailheads, including those in Hill City and Custer. Annual passes are also available.

The George S. Mickelson Trail has 15 accessible trailheads along its entire length, including convenient access points in both Hill City and Custer. These trailheads typically offer parking, self-sale trail pass stations, and vault toilets. Look for designated Mickelson Trail parking areas in both towns.

The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round, but spring and summer bring abundant wildflowers and lush greenery. Autumn is particularly stunning as the landscape transforms into a mosaic of crimson, orange, and gold. While accessible in winter, be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice conditions.

Yes, the George S. Mickelson Trail is dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness and respect other users and wildlife.

When hiking within the Black Hills National Forest, it's important to practice Leave No Trace principles. This includes staying on marked trails, packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and being mindful of fire restrictions, especially during dry periods. While the Mickelson Trail requires a pass, general forest access typically does not require additional permits for day hiking.

The distance from Hill City to Custer on the George S. Mickelson Trail is approximately 22.9 kilometers (14.2 miles). Depending on your pace, fitness level, and how often you stop for breaks or to enjoy the scenery, this hike can take around 6 to 7 hours to complete.

Yes, this route primarily follows the George S. Mickelson Trail. While it is the main path, sections of the route are also identified as part of the George S. Mickelson Trail in various segments.