Fubar, you live in/around the Deadood area (I believe). Is the Mickelson Trail do-able on a Cross bike? Looks so. Suggestions for a good one day ride there - either starting in Deadwood, Hill City, or Custer? Any loops rather than out-and-back. I saw some of the maps - they weren't good, and they don't show/state 'I would ride this, as it's the most scenic'. Thanks........
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29ner,
Yes, I do live in the area. Rapid City to be exact. The Mick is easily doable on a CX bike. As a matter of fact, every fall, we (the group I ride with) ride the whole thing in one day, turning it into kind of rolling party. Think of it as a gravel grinder meets RAGBRAI. Fun stuff.
How far do you want to go? If you're up for 70'ish miles in a day and you're wanting to take in the sights, I'd start in Deadwood and ride to Custer, stopping along the way at Rochford (a TINY little town in the Black Hills) at the Moonshine Gulch for a beer and/or food, then at Hill City for more opportunities to "fuel" up. Then on to Crazy Horse Monument and finally into Custer. Beyond Custer it gets fairly arid and can be miserably hot, esp. in the summer.
When are you thinking of doing it? Let me know and maybe I can help you arrange shuttling and/or ride with you as a "tour guide" if you'd like!
Posted 1 year ago # -
29ner
MemberYes, as I looked further into some photo's, I saw quite a few cross bikes (and comfy bikes and little girls with streamers on the bars). regardless, looks real nice. I've been to all these places listed - Rochford is a favorite - but I was always on a motorcycle. I didn't even know of the trail while there.....a different mindset while on a motor, than a bicycle. Superb roads for the motorcycle, by the way, but I'm not into the masses at the rally(ies). Yup, I'll let you know - be a few weeks or early fall. Any loops?
Posted 1 year ago # -
No "loops" on the Mick, just out and backs, which is how most people ride it. The people on comfort bikes, kids, etc. are probably riding it this way. A popular out and back is from the Mystic trailhead (just south of Rochford) south through the tunnels on the trail and back. Obviously, with the trail being an old railroad, none of the grades are too extreme.
Keep me posted. I'd be happy to ride it with someone (if it works out with my schedule).
Posted 1 year ago # -
mootini
MemberDitto on the cross bikes. The wife and I did Deadwood to Hill City on our Psychlo X's a week ago Sunday with no issues at all. We took the "shortcut" as opposed to the Sugar Loaf(?) side loop south of Deadwood. Couple of short steep pitches but rode them all no problem. Apparently the old main rail line is closed in that area for some reason so there is are two re-routes. We even bar hopped in Rochford - Moonshine Gulch and across the street to the convenience store. Plenty of chances to get water on that stretch at trailheads though we had our hydo packs on anyway. Scenery is outstanding up that way. Mystic area is one of our favorite areas in the hills. Agree that south of Custer things get hot and not as interesting. You are sure to enjoy if you decide to do it.
Posted 1 year ago # -
29ner
MemberYep, now that I've looked into more, it looks pretty straight forward and very cross bike do-able. I really like that area but will have to wait till fall - cooler weather and Sturgis is over with. I must say I have missed Mystic so I look forward to seeing that area. Thanks for the info and I'll give you a shout Fubar.
Posted 1 year ago # -
My son and I just got done with our third annual "Short Way Down" trip (a take off on the excellent motorcycle documentaries starring Charlie Boorman and Ewan McGregor) on the Mickelson. As per usual, we ride self-supported (carrying our clothes/camp gear/food etc.) on our tandem. He's 9 this year and an AWESOME stoker. Had some weather issues with rain in the AM turning into muggy heat before our first night's rest in Hill City, but all in all, a great trip. The wild flowers are quite a sight this year, esp. this late into the season. Should be a spectacular fall color show if winter doesn't come too early...
Posted 1 year ago #
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