Private
If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.
Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735
Great Gravel Ride
Deadwood to Sylvan Lake
Ride the Black Hills of South Dakota on the legendary Mickelson Trail.
Distance
61 mi / 98 km
Elevation Gain
5,050 ft / 1,539 m
Best time to Ride
Summer
Difficulty
Level 4
Few places in the American West blend history, landscape, and cycling quite like the Black Hills of South Dakota. This gravel route rolls out of Deadwood, a town that earned its name during the gold rush days of the 1870s, and follows one of the country’s most celebrated converted rail-trails all the way to the crystal waters and granite spires of Sylvan Lake.
Route Overview
The ride begins in Deadwood, where the streets still carry the character of a frontier boomtown. Almost immediately, the route joins the Mickelson Trail and begins a sustained 11-mile climb out of the valley at a steady 3–4% average gradient. It’s a manageable ascent with time to settle into a rhythm.
Near the midpoint, the trail crests and the terrain shifts. A long, flowing 15-mile descent carries you into high plains country with an almost effortless sense of momentum. The landscape opens dramatically here, rolling grassland stretching to the horizon with the dark ridgeline of the Hills framing the distance.
A lunch stop in Hill City breaks the ride at just the right moment, offering shade and a chance to refuel before the second half. From Hill City, the route continues on gentle rolling gravel toward Sylvan Lake, one of the most scenic destinations in the Black Hills.
Interactive Map and Elevation Profile
Explore this route on a Gravel Bike Tour
If you’re inspired to experience this ride with expert support, curated hotels, and seamless logistics, explore the full Trek Travel itinerary.
Ride Highlights
Ride the Mickelson Trail, one of America’s finest converted rail-trails, with almost no vehicle traffic.
Roll through hand-carved railway tunnels dating to the Black Hills gold rush.
Finish at Sylvan Lake, where clear water reflects granite spires rising straight from the shoreline
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is this gravel ride?
The Deadwood to Sylvan Lake route is a Level 4 ride. The standard route follows the Mickelson Trail with gradients that rarely exceed 5%. Riders who take on the avid 61 mile option will face a more demanding finish. Traffic is minimal throughout, which makes the ride feel relaxed and safe even on the longer stretches. Learn more about hiking activity levels.
What is the terrain like on this gravel ride?
The Mickelson Trail is surfaced with crushed limestone-style gravel that is firm, consistent, and well-maintained. It rides efficiently on gravel bikes and is largely free of technical challenges. Several railway tunnels punctuate the climb out of Deadwood, adding a distinctive sense of place and a welcome patch of cool air on warm summer days.
What should I pack for this ride?
Summers in the Black Hills can get hot during the day, so a breathable kit is a priority. Sun protection is essential: sunscreen and sunglasses. Bring a lightweight rain layer just in case; afternoon showers are possible. Carry enough water to get you comfortably to the Hill City lunch stop, and refill before the second half.
What is the best season to ride in the Black Hills?
Summer is the prime season for this route, roughly mid-June through July. Daylight is long, the trail conditions are at their best, and the Black Hills landscape is at its most vivid. Riders should be prepared for warm temperatures, particularly on the exposed plains section in the second half of the ride. See Trek Travel’s departure dates for this guided tour.
What is the weather like on this ride?
Summer days in the Black Hills are typically warm and sunny, with temperatures that can climb into the 80s°F (upper 20s°C). Afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon in July, so keeping an eye on the forecast before you set out is always worthwhile. Mornings tend to be cooler and are often the most pleasant time to be on the trail.
Where can I refuel along the route?
The main fuel stop is in Hill City, roughly at the midpoint of the ride. Riders stop at a favorite local deli for a casual, picnic-style lunch in the shade of a historic railway building. Beyond that stop, the trail itself has limited services, so arrive in Hill City ready to eat and refill.