Custer – George S. Mickelson Trail loop from Medicine Mountain
Custer – George S. Mickelson Trail loop from Medicine Mountain
2.9
(27)
49
riders
Custer – George S. Mickelson Trail loop from Medicine Mountain
07:51
127km
1,640m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: March 30, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Black Hills National Forest
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
31.7 km
Custer
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
57.1 km
Black Hills Museum of Natural History
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
58.5 km
George S. Mickelson Trail between Redfern and Hill City
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
69.7 km
George S. Mickelson Trail between Mystic and Redfern
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
80.0 km
George S. Mickelson Trail between Rochford and Mystic
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
86.7 km
Waterfall by Rochford Road
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
97.5 km
George S. Mickelson Trail
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
127 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
83.7 km
24.8 km
15.8 km
1.55 km
977 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
91.9 km
27.1 km
4.25 km
3.12 km
566 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,080 m)
Lowest point (1,470 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 25 June
11°C
8°C
31 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly epic gravel biking adventure in the Black Hills, the Custer – George S. Mickelson Trail loop from Medicine Mountain is one to put on your list. This difficult route covers a substantial 78.8 miles (126.8 km) with an impressive 5395 feet (1644 metres) of climbing, taking around 7 hours and 50 minutes to complete. It's a serious physical challenge, best suited for experienced gravel riders with very good fitness who are ready for a long day in the saddle.
What to expect on Custer – George S. Mickelson Trail loop from Medicine Mountain
This loop promises a journey through the heart of the Black Hills National Forest, where you'll pedal past towering ponderosa pine forests, listen to the rush of flowing creeks, and navigate narrow valleys. The terrain is primarily crushed limestone and gravel, generally well-maintained, but be prepared for sections with loose or deep gravel, especially on descents. While the Mickelson Trail itself features gentle grades, the cumulative elevation gain on this loop makes it strenuous. Keep an eye out for impressive slate rock walls, granite formations, and open alpine meadows. You'll also cross over 100 converted railroad bridges and pass through four historic rock tunnels, adding a unique charm to the ride. A highlight near Custer is catching a glimpse of the Crazy Horse Memorial sculpture.
Planning your visit
The George S. Mickelson Trail, which forms a significant part of this loop, is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find 14-15 trailheads with parking, self-sale trail pass stations, vault toilets, and tables, making it easy to plan your stops. While specific details for parking at Medicine Mountain are limited, these amenities along the Mickelson Trail provide convenient access points. Remember to check local conditions before you go, as the Black Hills can experience varied weather. Permits are required for the Mickelson Trail, which can be purchased at self-sale stations.
Trail details
- Distance: 78.8 miles (126.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 5395 feet (1644 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 7 hours and 50 minutes
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