Enjoy the outdoors by walking in the path of what used to be over a hundred miles of railroad tracks, bridges, and tunnels from an original Burlington Northern Railroad route that used to cross the Black Hills all the way from the 1890s to the 1980s. Where the tracks used to lay has now been converted to a hiking and biking trail for everyone’s use. Not only is it an interesting part of history, it is absolutely stunning. See the sights of the George S. Mickelson Trail:
The trail explores the Black Hills along the path of the tracks for 108.8 miles, beginning in Edgemont and ending in Deadwood with plenty of trailheads in between.
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Over 100 railroad bridges were converted into parts of the trail, allowing you to easily traverse the landscape with unforgettable views.
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Four tunnels cutting straight through the mountain are also included on the trail.
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These fascinating tunnels used to allow powerful trains to pass through the Black Hills with minimal grade, resulting in a trail with very few hills as well. It is perfect for biking!
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Along the route you will see utterly breathtaking scenery and nature.
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Many waterfalls can be spotted throughout the hike.
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The area is simply gorgeous and will blow you away while also allowing you to experience a part of South Dakota’s history.
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The George S. Mickelson Trail has numerous trailheads throughout the route, allowing plenty of easy access so you can take advantage of it for yourself. For more information about trailhead locations and amenities along the trail, visit this site.
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Jeff Goetz/Wikimedia
This was the first and only rails-to-trails project in South Dakota, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other epic hikes you can take in the state. Try this one that takes you up Harney Peak with jaw-dropping views waiting for you at the end.
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