The George S. Mickelson Trail: 109 Miles Through the Black Hills

Originally built as a gold rush railroad line, the Mickelson Trail was transformed into a scenic pathway and officially opened in 1998. Stretching 109 miles from Edgemont to Deadwood, it boasts 15 easily accessible trailheads, connecting adventurers to Pringle, Custer, Hill City, Rochford and other Black Hills destinations.

A hub for outdoor recreation, the trail welcomes hikers, bikers and horseback riders, while cross-country skiers and snowshoers take advantage of its beauty in winter. Climbing over 6,000 feet yet maintaining a gentle 4-percent grade, it’s ideal for leisure cyclists and skiers. Along the way, keep an eye out for deer, elk, coyotes, wild turkeys and even the occasional mountain lion.

Plan Your Visit

Getting to the Mickelson Trail

Parking is available at all 15 trailheads. Many businesses in towns and cities along the trail, like Rabbit Bicycles and Black Hills Shuttle in Hill City, offer shuttle services for various prices. Most require reservations in advance, so chart your course ahead of time with this Mickelson Trail map.

Trail Accessibility

The Mickelson Trail is one of the most accessible trails in South Dakota, as the gentle slopes and intermittent paved sections allow people of all ages and abilities to enjoy. Electric wheelchairs, electric scooters and pedal-assist e-bikes are allowed, but all-terrain tires may be needed for some parts of the trail. The Trolley on the Trail ride, held during the summer, lasts approximately four hours and allows those with physical limitations to experience the beauty of the Mickelson Trail.

Trail Amenities

Many of the Mickelson Trail’s 15 trailheads offer amenities like drinking water, warming shelters with picnic tables, public toilets and snowshoe checkouts. Visitors should be aware that water is removed from the trail during winter months, so showers, flush toilets and other water systems may be closed.

Passes & Fees

A trail pass is required for all visitors ages 12 and older. Daily passes cost $5 per person and can be purchased at self-sale stations at each trailhead. Annual passes are available for $20 per person and can be purchased on the Go Outdoors South Dakota site in advance. The trail is for day use only; camping is not permitted.