Support Rails to Trails

We rode the 18-mile segment between Custer and White Elephant Junction.

Many communities around the country have converted no-longer-used railroad rights-of-way into trails for non-motorized use. As someone who enjoys traveling with my bike, I inquire about local bike trails as soon as we arrive at a new campground. More times than not, there is a rail trail in the area that offers a great way to see the area and satisfy the need to get some peddling time in. Custer, South Dakota, has the Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile rail trail that runs through the Black Hills. Conceived by former Governor George Mickelson, the trail connects the major towns in the Black Hills and, with no more than a 4% grade on any stretch, it is challenging enough but not so intimidating that it takes away from enjoying the scenery. We saw horses, bison, deer, cattle, sheep, goats, and even a couple of snakes along the way. If you have a rail trail in your community, get out there and ride it sometime. You'll get some great exercise and discover a whole new world right in your back yard.