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Black Hills Gravel Bike Tour

An unpaved adventure in South Dakota from Spearfish Canyon to Mt Rushmore

Tour Duration

5 Days / 4 Nights

Trip Style

Gravel, Signature

Activity Level

Level 3

Hotel Level

Explorer

Bikes

Trek Checkpoint SLR 7
Trek Electric-Assist Domane+ SLR 7

View details

Starting from

$2,699.00 per person

See dates

Cycle the Black Hills' scenic gravel roads, where every mile on unpaved paths reveals awe-inspiring vistas and an unforgettable adventure.

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 »

Trip Wows
  • 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

Cyclist on dirt road under blue sky with white puffy clouds

Enjoy pristine gravel roads, wide open spaces, and endless skies

Discover Custer State Park

Explore Custer State Park from the crystal blue lakes to the granite spires to the grasslands where bison roam free.


What Guests are Saying
Little Spearfish Creek flowing through the canyon

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 more

Amy, Trek Travel Trip Designer

Cyclists having a snack near a pond

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!

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Rachel S, Trek Travel guest

Mountain goats munching on grass

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.

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Kathy M, Trek Travel guest

Two cyclists on a gravel path with hills in the background

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 more

Margaret R, Trek Travel guest


Cyclist on dirt road riding past a lake and mountain

Great Ride

Deadwood to Sylvan Lake

An epic day starting in Deadwood and ending at the crown jewel of Custer State Park.


Dates & Pricing

Book early for the best price

  • Guaranteed

  • Join Waitlist

  • Private

  • Limited Availability


Itinerary
Activity Information

Hotels
Double bedroom and arm chair at Black Hills Lodge
View of hotel pool
The driveway entrance of Black Hills Lodge
Double bedroom with armchair at Black Hills Lodge
Bar with wood panelled ceiling and walls at the Black Hills Lodge
Spearfish, South Dakota
Best Western Black Hills Lodge
Explorer

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.

...

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Exterior view of hotel at night.
Hotel room with king bed and colorful artwork
Hotel lobby with colorful artwork and leather sofa
Hotel bathroom sink and shower
Deadwood, South Dakota
Four Points by Sheraton Deadwood
Explorer

The Four Points is located at the end of Deadwood’s historic Main Street, making it perfectly situated for your short stay. Enjoy a modern, spacious room as well as the comfortable and well appointed bar and lobby where you can enjoy a local craft brew before venturing out to explore. You are just a short stroll away from various dinner options, and in the morning, your favorite coffee shop is right next door.

...

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Log cabin
Double bedroom with fireplace at Sylvan Lake Lodge
Outdoor view of Sylvan Lake Lodge
Hotel lobby with stuffed animal heads mounted on walls
Patio with green umbrellas
Custer, South Dakota
Sylvan Lake Lodge
Explorer

Sylvan 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.

...

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Bikes & Gear
Ride the Best Bikes in the Industry
Trek Checkpoint SLR 7 Gravel bike Gravel
Trek Checkpoint SLR 7

Ride 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.

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Trek Domane+ SLR bike Road
Trek Electric-Assist Domane+ SLR 7

Upgrade 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.

Learn more

Two cyclist and one rider

Trek Travel Guides

The World’s Best

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 Guides

Additional Gear
  • Trek Travel Santini cycling jersey to keep
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Cinch sack day bag to keep
  • Garmin Edge 1030 GPS computer with pre-loaded routes
  • Bontrager saddle*
  • Bontrager helmet*
  • Shimano SPD mountain style pedals*
  • *For the most comfortable ride, we recommend you bring your own saddle. If you prefer, you can bring your own pedals and helmet on the trip and our guides will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
  • A flat pack containing a tube, levers, and a CO2 cartridge with inflator
A collage of cycling gear guests will use on a Trek Travel Ride Camp, Discover, or Self-Guided Bike Tour.

Trip Inclusions

Additional Details

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:

  • The terrain on this trip falls under our classification of Level 3 as it relates to distance and elevation gain for all “Today’s” ride options, however, the gravel conditions in the Black Hills present roads that vary from smooth, fast dirt roads to stretches covered with loose gravel. The gravel surface is suited for riders that have some experience riding in these conditions and are looking to explore the world of gravel. See our “Rider Information” section above for more information.
  • Getting off the beaten path means there may be limited services on some gravel rides. There may not be traditional restrooms available on some routes, but there will be plenty of trees.
  • Cell service is very limited in Black Hills National Forest. Expect minimal service on all rides except for Day 1. Your guides will be equipped with walkie talkies and a satellite communication device to enable them to communicate and provide effective support even when cell service is lacking.
  • Our first hotel is a Best Western in Spearfish. While we normally do not stay in chain hotels, Spearfish is a charming small town ideally located for the start of this gravel trip and this is the best possible hotel option.
  • Our final hotel, Sylvan Lake Lodge, is located high in the hills in Custer State Park. Wifi and cell service are limited, but spectacular views are abundant.
  • On this trip, you will pedal from the Northern to the Southern edge of the Black Hills, however there will 20-30 minute shuttles at the end of the Day 3 and 4 rides to cover the distance even if you choose the avid rides.

Before and After Your Trip

Weather

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
FAQs

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 Discover Gravel trip, we recommend $150-$200 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


Guaranteed Trips

Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip. Click here to view our full guarantee policy.

Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.

Sold Out/Waitlist

This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.

Limited Availability

If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.

Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more.

What are your trip styles?

Classic - Reserve:

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Ride Camp:

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

Pro Race:

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

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

What is the Difference?

Ultimate Luxury:

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Luxury:

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

Explorer:

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

Combined:

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of Explorer and Luxury hotels. Rest assured, no matter which hotel level you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Level 1:

Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Level 2:

Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Level 3:

Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Level 4:

Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - Reserve:

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discover:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Ride Camp:

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

Pro Race:

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself