George S. Mickelson Trail

George S. Mickelson Trail A Hiking, Bicycling and Horseback Riding Trail through the heart of the Black Hills. Hours: 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 after sunset. The George S.

Walk in the footsteps of the past, explore the outdoors, or simply enjoy a stroll! Imagine a path where the ghosts of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane still roam; where bicyclists, hikers and horseback riders can explore spruce and ponderosa pine forests; and the very young, the very old and people of all abilities can enjoy. Mickelson Trail, in the heart of the beautiful Black Hills, was comple

ted in September of 1998. Its gentle slopes and easy access allow people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the beauty of the Black Hills. Much of the trail passes through National Forest Land, but there are parts of the trail that pass through privately owned land, where trail use is restricted to the trail only. The trail is 109 miles long and contains more than 100 converted railroad bridges and 4 rock tunnels. The trail surface is primarily crushed limestone and gravel. There are 15 trailheads, all of which offer parking, self-sale trail pass stations, vault toilets, and tables.

05/15/2026

Come Check out the Mickelson Trail and enjoy the Adventure 250!!

05/15/2026

Happy Open House Weekend!! The Trail is ready, water is on and adventure awaits!!

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***THIS POST IS OUTDATED***Trail Notice: Bridge 74 Temporary ClosurePlease be advised that Bridge 74, located north of t...
04/20/2026

***THIS POST IS OUTDATED***

Trail Notice: Bridge 74 Temporary Closure

Please be advised that Bridge 74, located north of the Mystic Trailhead, will be closed to all traffic on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. The closure is necessary for a scheduled professional inspection and is expected to last approximately eight hours.

But don't worry! You won't have to turn back! A reroute will be clearly marked to guide trail users around the bridge for the duration of the work. We ask that you please follow all posted signage on-site to ensure a safe transition through the area.

Thank you for your cooperation and patience as we conduct this routine maintenance. We hope you enjoy your time on the trail.

ATTENTION: Bridge 74 north of Mystic Trailhead will be CLOSED to ALL traffic on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 for an Inspectio...
04/17/2026

ATTENTION: Bridge 74 north of Mystic Trailhead will be CLOSED to ALL traffic on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 for an Inspection. A reroute will be in place for the closure (approximately 8 hours).

Last Call for Adventure!Time is running out to secure your spot for the 2026 Summer Trail Trek on the Mickelson Trail! R...
04/10/2026

Last Call for Adventure!

Time is running out to secure your spot for the 2026 Summer Trail Trek on the Mickelson Trail! Registration closes April 12, and you don’t want to miss this unforgettable ride through the heart of the Black Hills.

Miles of scenic beauty, fresh air, and a whole lot of trail camaraderie are waiting—but only if you’re signed up in time.

Don’t wait until it’s just a “wish I had”… make it your “so glad I did.”

Register now before the deadline hits! https://secure.getmeregistered.com/get_information.php?event_id=141768

Sign up and join the fun!!
02/25/2026

Sign up and join the fun!!

🌿👟 Lace Up, South Dakota! 🌿👟

Get moving for South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks with the Bob Ross Happy Little 5K! Run or walk a 5K outdoors at your own pace between Earth Day and Arbor Day while supporting your state's tree conservation efforts. Register by February 28th using the link below to receive a Happy Little T-Shirt, a commemorative bib number, and a finisher’s medal!

Register TODAY: https://heyor.ca/B3bC5S

Spend Your Summer as a Volunteer on the Mickelson Trail! Love fresh air, friendly faces, and days spent in some of the m...
02/25/2026

Spend Your Summer as a Volunteer on the Mickelson Trail!

Love fresh air, friendly faces, and days spent in some of the most beautiful scenery in the Black Hills? We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help care for and share the experience of the Mickelson Trail this summer season!

Volunteer perks include:
• Just 3 days a week — plenty of time to explore and relax
• Campsite provided at stunning Custer State Park
• State vehicle & all equipment included
• Meaningful work supporting one of South Dakota’s most beloved trails
• A summer filled with nature, community, and adventure

Whether you enjoy trail stewardship, visitor connections, or simply being outdoors, this is a unique opportunity to make a difference while living the trail life.

To learn more and apply online check out https://gfp.sd.gov/volunteer/ or contact the park at 605.584.2739

02/20/2026

**Cancelled**
Englewood Snowshoe hike has been cancelled due to poor snow conditions.

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Hello sunshine, Southern Hills!The weather is looking downright beautiful this weekend, which means the Mickelson Trail ...
02/06/2026

Hello sunshine, Southern Hills!

The weather is looking downright beautiful this weekend, which means the Mickelson Trail is calling. If winter cabin fever has everyone bouncing off the walls, it might be time to kick the kids outside and let them bike some energy off (adults included—we see you).

Whether you’re pedaling a few miles or cruising a longer stretch, fresh air, blue skies, and wide-open trail are on the forecast.

Before you roll out:
✔ Helmets on
✔ Water and snacks packed
✔ Layers for changing temps

Then hit the trail, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy a weekend that actually feels like a win.

02/05/2026

The Snowshoe hike for February 7 at 9am on the Mickelson Trail has been cancelled due to high temps and lousy snow conditions.

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Address

11361 Nevada Gulch Road
Lead, SD
57754

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