Originally Posted by
Hondo Gravel
I will ride this road you suggested the Mickelson trail is only around 110 miles so some additional routes will be welcomed. Last year I went the uphill direction this year I’m going from Deadwood to Edgemont which after the initial climb is all downhill.
From Edgemont you could ride old Rte. 18 then U.S. 18 to Hot Springs to see the mammoth dig site. Worth the price of admission. Take the 18 Bypass and you will pass right by the site:
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/8789349
If you have never seen Mt. Rushmore, take a day off in Hill City and do this loop:
https://ridewithgps.com/users/365150/routes
That back way to Keystone is really pretty and was virtually car-free. Leave shortly before the tourist train from Hill City to Keystone and wait for it to pass by. The road crosses the tracks several times.
Another day off option is the Needles Highway loop from Custer:
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/8771954
Stunning views.
If I ever have a do-over, I will stay at French Creek RV Park and campground. It's right off the trail by the old caboose. Looked nice and shady.
BTW...Check your profile. There is a climb out of Deadwood, a climb from the Englewood Trailhead and a climb from Mystic before the run into Hill City.