- REVIEWS
- QUESTIONS
Updating Results
Help support LA wildfire relief when you donate to the American Red Cross today
Adventures for the REI community – see trips
Tailwind on every ride? – See e-bike trips
European Classic booking fast – see the trips
An unpaved adventure in South Dakota from Spearfish Canyon to Mt Rushmore
Tour Duration
5 Days / 4 Nights
Trip Style
Gravel, Signature Tours
Activity Level
Level 3
Hotel Level
Explorer
Join us for an epic gravel cycling adventure through the heart of the Black Hills in South Dakota! From the enchanting Spearfish Canyon to the historic charm of Deadwood, you’ll experience wondrous and rustic beauty in every direction. Pedal along a network of gravel roads that unveil the grandeur of the Hills as they weave through the forest connecting small towns, and all the while the gentle music of nearby creeks remains your constant companion. Witness nature's artistry as you transition to the Southern Hills and stay at Sylvan Lake Lodge, surrounded by towering granite spires that reach for the sky. Revel in the untamed allure of Custer State Park's wildlife loop and delight in a farewell dinner at the renowned Skogen Kitchen. Feel the pulse of history as you visit Mt Rushmore, a final stop before you depart. This is more than just a ride – the magic of the Black Hills will resonate with you long after you’re gone. Learn more about Gravel trips and if they're right for you »
Enjoy the tranquility of gravel roads as you meander along streams and climb through the pines of the Black Hills National Forest
Stay at Sylvan Lake Lodge and pedal along the stunning Needles Highway, named for the surrounding granite rock formations
Visit the iconic Mt Rushmore and learn the history of this powerful symbol of the ideals of freedom and democracy
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Spearfish Canyon and ride the most scenic segments of the Mickelson rail trail
Savor a gourmet dinner at the innovative Skogen Kitchen, a chef-driven concept and South Dakota's best kept secret
Bison freely wander throughout Custer State Park
Discover Custer State Park
Explore Custer State Park from the crystal blue lakes to the granite spires to the grasslands where bison roam free.
Gravel riding in Spearfish is second to none! Little traffic meant riding was relaxing and conversation was flowing. The terrain and gravel conditions were diverse and the scenery was spectacular everyday! We also rode deep into untouched forests that are home to incredible wildlife.
Read moreKathy M, Trek Travel guest
The scenery in the Black Hills is outstanding and the gravel is endless! I enjoyed the diversity of the riding from the remote forest roads to the Mickelson bike path which passed through quaint towns like Deadwood.
Read moreMargaret R, Trek Travel guest
The Black Hills are an undiscovered gravel cycling paradise. There is no better way to experience the quiet majesty of the forest than to pedal the endless gravel roads that weave through it from end to end. Don't take my word for it. Come and explore, and I promise you will not be disappointed!
Read moreAmy, Trek Travel Trip Designer
I have been fortunate enough to bike in some amazing places across the United States, but the gravel in South Dakota is my favorite! There is no shortage of variety and places to go. With the combination of farm roads, forest service roads, and ATV trails you encounter all types of terrain that continues on for days. On top of that, the scenery in the Black Hills is absolutely beautiful! So many times I have been left in awe at the places my bike could take me. If you love riding gravel the Black Hills absolutely needs to be on your bucket list!
Read moreRachel S, Trek Travel guest
Gravel riding in Spearfish is second to none! Little traffic meant riding was relaxing and conversation was flowing. The terrain and gravel conditions were diverse and the scenery was spectacular everyday! We also rode deep into untouched forests that are home to incredible wildlife.
Read moreKathy M, Trek Travel guest
The scenery in the Black Hills is outstanding and the gravel is endless! I enjoyed the diversity of the riding from the remote forest roads to the Mickelson bike path which passed through quaint towns like Deadwood.
Read moreMargaret R, Trek Travel guest
The Black Hills are an undiscovered gravel cycling paradise. There is no better way to experience the quiet majesty of the forest than to pedal the endless gravel roads that weave through it from end to end. Don't take my word for it. Come and explore, and I promise you will not be disappointed!
Read moreAmy, Trek Travel Trip Designer
I have been fortunate enough to bike in some amazing places across the United States, but the gravel in South Dakota is my favorite! There is no shortage of variety and places to go. With the combination of farm roads, forest service roads, and ATV trails you encounter all types of terrain that continues on for days. On top of that, the scenery in the Black Hills is absolutely beautiful! So many times I have been left in awe at the places my bike could take me. If you love riding gravel the Black Hills absolutely needs to be on your bucket list!
Read moreRachel S, Trek Travel guest
Gravel riding in Spearfish is second to none! Little traffic meant riding was relaxing and conversation was flowing. The terrain and gravel conditions were diverse and the scenery was spectacular everyday! We also rode deep into untouched forests that are home to incredible wildlife.
Read moreKathy M, Trek Travel guest
The scenery in the Black Hills is outstanding and the gravel is endless! I enjoyed the diversity of the riding from the remote forest roads to the Mickelson bike path which passed through quaint towns like Deadwood.
Read moreMargaret R, Trek Travel guest
Great Ride
An epic day starting in Deadwood and ending at the crown jewel of Custer State Park.
Book early for the best price
Guaranteed
Join Waitlist
Private
Limited Availability
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:
We’ve got you covered. Choose an available trip date, gather your group, and we’ll handle the rest. Here’s the private pricing for this trip:
You have another booking already in progress
Booking a new trip will cancel all of your previous booking progress. Continue your previous booking or proceed with your new booking.
Where to Arrive
Airport:
Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP)
Pick-up location:
DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center, Rapid City
Pick-up time:
9:00 AM
Where to Depart
Airport:
Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP)
Drop-off location:
DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center or Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP)
Drop-off time:
2:00 PM
Additional Arrival Information
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your Black Hills Gravel bike tour, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into the Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP).
From the airport, if you are staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center (our meeting hotel), they offer a shuttle for $12 per person. Just call the front desk (605-348-4000) for a pick-up when you land. The drive takes about 20 minutes. If you are driving to the trip, you can park at the meeting hotel for the duration of the trip if you book a pre- or post-night here. Ask the front desk for a parking pass. If staying elsewhere, you may book a shuttle to any Rapid City hotel by calling Rapid Shuttle (605-399-9999) or booking online at www.rapidshuttle.com.
Your Trek Travel guides will meet you in the lobby of the DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center (505 N 5th St, Rapid City, SD 57701) at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Your trip begins with a 45-minute shuttle to Spearfish, where you'll enjoy a bike fitting session followed by your first ride. Please come dressed in your riding clothes and pack your riding gear as well as a change of clothes and swimsuit in a separate, readily accessible bag. Your main luggage will be stored until you reach the first hotel.
If you will be late for the meeting or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call the Best Western Black Hills Lodge (605-642-7795), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.
Additional Departure Information
At the end of the trip, your guides will offer a shuttle to the DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center and also the Rapid City Airport. You will say farewell to your guides at your preferred stop, between 1:30-2:00 PM. Please do not book a flight before 4:00 PM to allow for any potential delays.
Enjoy a warm-up gravel ride around Spearfish
Overview
Meet your guides in the lobby of the DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center in Rapid City at 9:00 AM for a shuttle to Spearfish, where you'll start off with a signature Trek Travel picnic lunch, followed by a bike fitting session. After your guides share some safety tips and route highlights, you'll head out on your first ride. Following a couple of short miles of pavement, you'll reach the unpaved roads that wind through the rolling ranch land n... Meet your guides in the lobby of the DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center in Rapid City at 9:00 AM for a shuttle to Spearfish, where you'll start off with a signature Trek Travel picnic lunch, followed by a bike fitting session. After your guides share some safety tips and route highlights, you'll head out on your first ride. Following a couple of short miles of pavement, you'll reach the unpaved roads that wind through the rolling ranch land north of town. Stretch your legs and settle into the gentle climbs as you get ready for a big week of riding! The ride ends at the Best Western. Once you are checked into your room, you'll have some time to unwind before gathering for a stroll to dinner. Your guides will fill you in on the adventures to come as you enjoy social hour and dinner at our favorite local restaurant. Read More
Hotel
Black Hills Best Western
Meals included
Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Welcome to Spearfish
Ease into the week with a scenic ride on smooth gravel roads
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Spearfish to Chicken Creek Loop | Approximately 27 mi | 43 km and 1,600 ft | 488 m
Ride Option 2
AVID OPTION:
Spearfish to Creekside Loop | Approximately 30 mi | 48 km and 1,750 ft | 533 m
Experience Spearfish Canyon and the wild western town of Deadwood
Overview
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before meeting at the bikes for your first full day of adventure. Today’s ride begins with a paved climb up Spearfish Canyon. Wind your way through the ponderosa pines and towering limestone walls as you climb alongside Spearfish Creek. Keep an eye out for mountain goats and osprey and be sure to pause for photos along the way, perhaps stopping at the overlooks for Bridal Veil and Roughlock Falls. The avid option is an out and back on an e... Enjoy a hearty breakfast before meeting at the bikes for your first full day of adventure. Today’s ride begins with a paved climb up Spearfish Canyon. Wind your way through the ponderosa pines and towering limestone walls as you climb alongside Spearfish Creek. Keep an eye out for mountain goats and osprey and be sure to pause for photos along the way, perhaps stopping at the overlooks for Bridal Veil and Roughlock Falls. The avid option is an out and back on an exquisite gravel road that is an extension of Spearfish Canyon. Enjoy a picnic-style lunch creekside before the final climb to Hanna and the long, rewarding descent on the Mickelson rail trail that delivers you into Deadwood. After getting settled into your hotel room, the evening is yours to explore. Enjoy dinner on your own in this Wild West town, best known for its most famous gunslinger, Wild Bill Hickok, and the colorful Calamity Jane. Read More
Hotel
Deadwood Mountain Grand
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch
Highlight of the Day
Spearfish Canyon
Savor the scenery and enjoy the gravel side of Spearfish Canyon
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Spearfish to Deadwood | Approximately 40 mi | 64 km and 3,050 ft | 930 m
Ride Option 2
SHORT OPTION:
Spearfish to Deadwood with Shuttle | Approximately 25 mi | 40 km and 1,500 ft | 457 m
Ride Option 3
AVID OPTION:
Spearfish to Deadwood with Roughlock Falls | Approximately 51 mi | 82 km and 3,800 ft | 1,158 m
Ride through the undiscovered heart of Black Hills National Forest
Overview
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for today's incredible ride through the heart of the Black Hills. Today's ride follows the Mickelson Trail all the way to Hill City, while the short option starts with a boost in the van and pedals the final 33 miles of trail to Hill City. Avid riders will ride gravel forest roads over more challenging but equally scenic terrain, connected by a few sections of the trail. All routes pass through our favorite segment of the M... Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for today's incredible ride through the heart of the Black Hills. Today's ride follows the Mickelson Trail all the way to Hill City, while the short option starts with a boost in the van and pedals the final 33 miles of trail to Hill City. Avid riders will ride gravel forest roads over more challenging but equally scenic terrain, connected by a few sections of the trail. All routes pass through our favorite segment of the Mickelson trail including the small town of Rochford, founded in 1878 when gold was discovered in a nearby creek, and the Mystic tunnels. After the tunnels, avid riders will have a chance to diverge on challenging gravel roads, and everyone will end in Hill City where you'll be greeted with another delicious picnic lunch at the trailhead. Afterwards, you'll shuttle to your home for the next two nights, Sylvan Lake Lodge. Dinner is at the Lodge this evening, so you'll have time to relax and recover for another epic ride tomorrow. Read More
Hotel
Sylvan Lake Lodge
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Mickelson Trail
Enjoy scenic views and smooth pedaling as you wind through the Black Hills National Forest on South Dakota's original rail trail
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Deadwood to Hill City via Mickelson Trail | Approximately 50 mi | 80 km and 3,200 ft | 975 m
Ride Option 2
SHORT OPTION:
Dumont to Hill City with Shuttle | Approximately 33 mi | 53 km and 1,150 ft | 351 m
Ride Option 3
AVID OPTION:
Deadwood to Hill City | Approximately 65 mi | 105 km and 4,950 ft | 1,509 m
Pedal Needles Highway and the gravel roads of Custer State Park
Overview
Get excited for your final big ride today! You'll begin with a short descent to Sylvan Lake. One look at the crystal blue water surrounded by rounded granite rock formations reveals why it's known as the "Crown Jewel" of Custer State Park. From here, you’ll climb through striking granite spires on Needles Highway and thread through the Needles Eye tunnel before turning... Get excited for your final big ride today! You'll begin with a short descent to Sylvan Lake. One look at the crystal blue water surrounded by rounded granite rock formations reveals why it's known as the "Crown Jewel" of Custer State Park. From here, you’ll climb through striking granite spires on Needles Highway and thread through the Needles Eye tunnel before turning onto gravel and making your way to Custer State Park. You'll pedal the gravel roads of the famous Wildlife Loop, where it is common to encounter some of the 1,500 bison who call the park home. You may also see wildlife such as pronghorn antelopes, burros, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep. Enjoy the scenery as you ride through beautiful open grasslands and pine speckled hills. Today ride and the short option will end at the Wildlife Loop Visitor Center, while avid riders will tackle an additional 10 miles of gravel, ending at Bluebell Lodge. From here, everyone will shuttle the final 20 minutes to Custer, where you'll have time to explore and enjoy lunch at a cafe of your choosing. Your guides will, of course, provide you with their recommendation. Following lunch, you'll shuttle the short 15 minutes back to the Lodge. This evening, you'll head back to Custer and celebrate in style with a gourmet dinner at Skogen Kitchen. Read More
Hotel
Sylvan Lake Lodge
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Featured Meal | Skogen Kitchen
Welcome to Skogen Kitchen, a chef-driven concept, offering innovative and worldly dinner options. Owners Eliza Raney (GM) and Joseph Raney (... Welcome to Skogen Kitchen, a chef-driven concept, offering innovative and worldly dinner options. Owners Eliza Raney (GM) and Joseph Raney (Chef) combine efforts to deliver an exquisite experience to our table tonight. Read More
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Sylvan Lake to Visitor Center | Approximately 33 mi | 53 km and 1,800 ft | 549 m
Ride Option 2
SHORT OPTION:
Sylvan Lake to Visitor Center with Shuttle | Approximately 25 mi | 40 km and 1,400 ft | 427 m
Ride Option 3
AVID OPTION:
Sylvan Lake to Blue Bell | Approximately 42 mi | 68 km and 3,000 ft | 914 m
Enjoy a final scenic ride or hike and visit Mt Rushmore
Overview
Rise and shine to enjoy your final morning at the Lodge with incredible views in every direction. You have several options this morning including an out and back ride to Palmer Creek trailhead. It begins with a big descent and then you turn around and climb your way back, admiring the views along the way. There are also scenic hiking options from the Lodge including a mellow two-mile loop around Sylvan Lake with an option to add on half a mile of steep, strenuous te... Rise and shine to enjoy your final morning at the Lodge with incredible views in every direction. You have several options this morning including an out and back ride to Palmer Creek trailhead. It begins with a big descent and then you turn around and climb your way back, admiring the views along the way. There are also scenic hiking options from the Lodge including a mellow two-mile loop around Sylvan Lake with an option to add on half a mile of steep, strenuous terrain on the Sunday Gulch trail. Of course, you can also simply relax and enjoy a leisurely morning. After checking out, your guides will drive you to Mt Rushmore where you'll get a closeup view of the iconic memorial. The 60-foot sculptures of four U.S. Presidents took 14 years to complete using jackhammers and munitions to carve into sheer granite. You can walk the short path to the sculptor’s studio to learn more about the history and process. After enjoying a final picnic lunch, you'll shuttle back to Rapid City. Your guides will offer a stop at the DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center and also at the Rapid City Airport. Please do not book a flight before 3:30 PM to allow for any potential delays. Read More
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch
Highlight of the Day
Mt Rushmore
Cap off the week with a visit to the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Sylvan Lake to Palmer Creek & Return | Approximately 13 mi | 21 km and 1,500 ft | 457 m
Ride Option 2
TODAY'S HIKE:
Sylvan Lake Loop with Sunday Gulch | Approximately 2.3 mi | 3.7 km and 360 ft | 110 m
View full itinerary to print.
View full itineraryActivity Level: Level 3
Terrain: Hilly
The unpaved surfaces on our Black Hills Gravel bike tour are rated as Intermediate. About 55% of Today's rides and 60% of the Avid rides are unpaved. You can expect gravel roads that are primarily smooth dirt roads with sparse to moderate amounts of gravel. At times, there will be short sections of rougher road that may have deep or chunky gravel, potholes, ruts, or washboard surfaces. For about 12 miles on Day 2 and most or all of Day 3, you'll ride on the Mickelson Trail. It is a rail trail, but it is more challenging than most, with maximum grades of 5-10% near Deadwood. The Black Hills are between 5,000-7,000 feet (1,524-2,133 meters) in elevation, winds can be strong, and the weather can be unpredictable. The terrain varies from short steep hills to long, gradual climbs. Expect minimal traffic and few services during the gravel sections of the rides, but you should expect to encounter some traffic on paved sections of Spearfish Canyon and Custer State Park. The support van will not always follow the entire route, but will be posted up at strategic points along the way.
Our Black Hills Gravel bike tour is best suited for Level 3 riders who have experience riding gravel roads and are accustomed to varied gravel conditions and hilly terrain. Level 4 riders will enjoy the extra mileage and climbs the avid route options offer. Our Trek Travel guides can accommodate Type 2 Riders, who seek less mileage or fewer uphills, however you will encounter significant time shuttling in the van. For those familiar with gravel riding and eager to experience every mile, yet mindful of their physical limits, our electric-assist bike option offers a comfortable and enjoyable solution.
Distance
Daily Average
33 miles | 52 kilometers
Total
163 miles | 262 kilometers
Elevation
Daily Average
2,230 feet | 680 meters
Total
11,150 feet | 3,398 meters
This destination is best suited to guests who want to cycle every day. Because of the terrain and/or remoteness of the hotels and riding routes, there are few, if any, non-riding options available. If a non-rider wants to accompany a rider guest on this trip, they would need to spend many hours in the van and/or at the hotels on the trip. Due to this, we strongly discourage non-riders from this destination. As an alternative, call a Trek Travel Trip Consultant at 866-464-8735 for trip suggestions where more non-rider activities are available, such as:
Looking for a break from traffic and the usual routes? Our gravel rides are the perfect escape! While the amount of pavement varies from destination to destination, you can count on minimal traffic once you hit the dirt. And since you'll be off the beaten path, you may encounter fewer services - that's where our guides come in handy. They'll make sure you have everything you need, whether it's a flat tire fix or a local recommendation for the best post-ride treat. And with support from our team available on and off the bike, you'll have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable ride - even through some of the bumps on the trail.
The Best Western Black Hills Lodge offers welcoming hospitality, pristine rooms, and a full hot breakfast. It is a short walk from Main Street which is lined with shops, restaurants, and local favorite hangouts like the Public House and the Spearfish Brewing Company.
... Learn moreLocated in the heart of the wild western town that was once the center of the Black Hills gold rush, the Deadwood Mountain Grand is the perfect stopover on this journey. The hotel is located in the former Slime Plant for the Homestake Gold Mine but you wouldn’t know it today, as it was beautifully renovated in 2023. It has a refreshing indoor pool for hot days and often features live music for cool evenings. Historic Main Street is a short walk where you can find colorful shops and a variety of bars and restaurants.
... Learn moreSylvan Lake Lodge is surrounded by granite spires, perched on the hillside above the picturesque Sylvan Lake. Stunning views abound in all directions. We will stay in cabins just a few steps away from the Lodge, which offer rustic comfort in a peaceful and scenic setting. The Lodge has a full service restaurant and bar, outdoor patio and is adjacent to hiking trails. Wifi and cell service are limited here, so be prepared to unplug and enjoy.
... Learn moreRide with confidence on the best gravel bike in the business, featuring a high-performance frame designed to be nimble yet stable, and the smoothing effect of IsoSpeed technology. Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide safe stopping, and with the electronic Shimano GRX Di2 drivetrain, you’re set for smooth shifting on any terrain. Enjoy all the bumps in the road with robust 45mm tubeless tires. The Checkpoint SLR 7 will take you on big adventures beyond the pavement.
Learn moreUpgrade your experience on the Domane+ SLR 7. It has everything you love in a road bike, with the extra boost to take you farther than ever before. With an ultra-lightweight design and a whisper quiet electric assist motor, this performance e-road bike will assist you on the climbs and enable you to venture further. So go ahead—take the long way. With Domane+ SLR 7, there’s always room for more distance and more fun!
Upgrade to the Domane+ SLR 7 on this trip for $399 (3-6 day trips) or $599 (7+ day trips). Available in limited quantities. See specific trip dates for available bike options.
Trek Travel Guides
From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.
Certified GuidesGuide Gratuities
Guide gratuities are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Discover Gravel trip, we recommend $200-$250 per guest. While local currency is preferred, there are other options to make tipping easier. Most guides accept gratuity via PayPal or Venmo or our staff can help before or after the trip. Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.
Know Before You Go!
We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.
Your Trip Need to Knows:
Rapid City, South Dakota
Rapid City is known as the gateway to the Badlands and Black Hills and is the perfect home base for exploring these areas. Visit the Journey Museum, the Dahl Art Center, or take a self-guided walking tour of the presidential statues and art alley in the center of town. Or rent a car for a day trip to Badlands National Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Wind Cave National Park, or a deeper dive into Custer State Park. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip hotel:
Where to Stay
DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center
Stay just a short walk from downtown Rapid City at the DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center. This modern hotel has a heated indoor pool, an onsite restaurant and bar, workout room, high speed wifi, business center, and laundry facilities to make your stay comfortable and productive. They also offer an airport shuttle for $12 per person, and free on-site parking. Please note: This is also your first day meeting location. www.hilton.com
Best Western Plus Rapid City
The Best Western Plus is the city's top-rated hotel on TripAdvisor. Located a short drive from the historic downtown, this hotel offers all the modern amenities you expect from Best Western, including an indoor pool and hot tub, a full hot breakfast, and on-site laundry facilities. www.bestwestern.com
Hotel Alex Johnson
Stay in the heart of downtown at the historic Hotel Alex Johnson, where authentic Native American décor, modern updates, and reportedly a touch of the paranormal create a unique and welcoming atmosphere. Recently renovated guest rooms blend historic charm with contemporary comforts, while amenities include a rooftop bar, fitness center, on-site dining, and complimentary airport shuttle service. www.alexjohnson.com
Average monthly temperature and precipitation
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
High | 38.0°F· 3.3°C | 39.0°F· 3.9°C | 49.0°F· 9.4°C | 58.0°F· 14.4°C | 67.0°F· 19.4°C | 78.0°F· 25.6°C | 87.0°F· 30.6°C | 87.0°F· 30.6°C | 77.0°F· 25.0°C | 61.0°F· 16.1°C | 48.0°F· 8.9°C | 38.0°F· 3.3°C |
Low | 15.0°F· -9.4°C | 17.0°F· -8.3°C | 25.0°F· -3.9°C | 33.0°F· 0.6°C | 44.0°F· 6.7°C | 53.0°F· 11.7°C | 60.0°F· 15.6°C | 58.0°F· 14.4°C | 48.0°F· 8.9°C | 36.0°F· 2.2°C | 25.0°F· -3.9°C | 16.0°F· -8.9°C |
Rain | 0.1"· 0.25 cm | 0.15"· 0.38 cm | 0.34"· 0.86 cm | 1.01"· 2.57 cm | 1.62"· 4.11 cm | 1.52"· 3.86 cm | 0.81"· 2.06 cm | 0.54"· 1.37 cm | 0.53"· 1.35 cm | 0.48"· 1.22 cm | 0.2"· 0.51 cm | 0.11"· 0.28 cm |
Temperatures can vary widely in June, are generally warm to hot in July and milder in late August and September. For example, the average high in Spearfish in June and late August/early September trips is high 70s, while in July, it is high 80s. In Deadwood and Custer, where you spend the majority of the trip, it is usually 5-10 degrees cooler because you are at higher elevations. Expect low temps in the mid 40s to mid 50s. Always bring layers and rain gear, as well as a light jacket for evenings. View our Packing List
To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.
*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.
**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.
With one person booked on a date, the trip becomes guaranteed.*
In the case where trips are at one or two guests, we will contact you prior to final payment to give you the following options:
Pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run. If there are three or more guests before departure date, the fee will be refunded in full.
or
Switch to a different trip or different departure date. Should there be any difference in trip price between your original trip and the new one, you will be expected to pay the difference, or we will refund you accordingly.
Offer only valid if Trek Travel contacts a guest to discuss these specific options. Bike trips with fewer than three guests may operate with only one guide. The guide will support all rides with a Trek Travel van. If you would like to discuss the option of having two guides, please speak with your trip consultant.
The small trip supplement for Ride Camps is as follows – for two guests an additional $250 or for one guest an additional $500.
*Cross Country, Discover, Race, and Special Edition trips as well as a small number of select departures have a minimum guest count to guarantee. Please check with your Trip Consultant for more information.
Unforeseen events may make it necessary to cancel or modify a trip. Our Guest Services team will update you with any changes. We reserve the right to cancel departures in cases of force majeure or the failure of third parties—such as hotels—to honor their reservations, in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Trek Travel is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly encourage We strongly encourage Travel Protection for complete coverage.
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.
Read our Cancellation Policy
Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.
Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection
We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services
Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments
Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Signature Gravel trip, we recommend $200-$250 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.
Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:
Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.
Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.
You cannot put a price on a wow. But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See Gravel FAQs