Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Trail

The Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Trail segment near Pierre, South Dakota, is rated as easy. It's a relatively flat route, making it suitable for most touring cyclists. However, the broader Lewis & Clark Bicycle Trail, which spans thousands of miles, is known for its varied and often demanding terrain, including significant climbs and gravel sections.

This specific segment of the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Trail, often referred to as the Riverwalk Bicycle Path, is primarily a dedicated bike path. While the larger historical trail features a mix of paved roads, gravel, and unpaved sections, this particular Komoot tour offers a smooth experience along the river.

You can typically find parking at Steamboat Park in Pierre, South Dakota, which serves as a convenient access point for this section of the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Trail. The trail is located within the Farm Island Recreation Area, so parking might also be available at designated spots within the park.

Yes, as this segment of the trail is located within the Farm Island Recreation Area, you will likely need to pay an entrance fee or have a valid South Dakota State Park pass. It's advisable to check the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website for current fee information and regulations before your visit.

Generally, dogs are welcome on trails within South Dakota State Parks, including the Farm Island Recreation Area, but they must be kept on a leash. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all trail users.

The best time to cycle this section of the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Trail is typically from May through September. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and potentially more favorable winds, making for a more comfortable ride. Summers can be warm, so plan for early morning or late afternoon rides if visiting during peak heat.

This route offers scenic views along the Missouri River. You'll pass through Steamboat Park and follow the Riverwalk Bicycle Path, providing opportunities to enjoy the riverfront and local natural beauty. The broader Lewis & Clark Bicycle Trail is rich in historical sites and diverse landscapes, but this segment focuses on the Pierre riverfront.

While this specific 16.8 km segment of the trail itself may not have cafes directly on the path, its proximity to Pierre, South Dakota, means that amenities like restrooms, cafes, and restaurants are readily available in the town. Steamboat Park, a key access point, often has facilities.

The Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Trail segment near Pierre, as described in this Komoot tour, is an out-and-back route. You'll cycle along the Missouri River and then return along the same path, offering consistent scenic views.

Given that this specific segment is an easy, dedicated bike path, a touring bicycle is perfectly suited. Road bikes or hybrid bikes would also be comfortable. For the much longer, more challenging Lewis & Clark Bicycle Trail, wide-tired touring bicycles and potentially off-road tires are often recommended due to varied and rougher terrain.

The Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Trail traces the historic 1804-1806 Corps of Discovery Expedition. While this specific segment in Pierre offers a glimpse of the Missouri River that the expedition traversed, the full trail provides a unique opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, passing through numerous historical landmarks, interpretive centers, and sites significant to Native American history across multiple states.