It’s another warm and sunny day in the Black Hills and I can’t wait to get outside. I’m, of course, excited about all of the hiking and time I can spend at the lake soon. But, I recently realized that I’ve been missing out an activity that’s great in the Black Hills: mountain biking.

Mountain biking is great way to get some exercise and see the beauty of the Black Hills first hand. Think about it, pedaling away in the Black Hills National Forest with a creek on one side of you, deer crossing the path in front of you, sites like Bear Butte or Mount Rushmore in view. You have to admit, it’s a fantastic scenario.

Don’t think you can handle some of the terrain? Well, think again. There are nearly 1.2 million acres of land available for mountain bike use in the Black Hills. With all of this area, there is a trail for everyone, whether an expert or novice rider. The well-known Mickelson Trail is great route for beginners, and bikers wanting a challenge can try the more expert level Crow Peak Trail just outside of Spearfish.

I probably haven’t been on a biking venture since I got my training wheels off my first bicycle, but I plan on taking advantage of all of the opportunities here this summer. To find the right trail for you, check out the links below.

Rushmore Mountain Sports in Spearfish
Mountain Biking Brochure for Custer State Park
Black Hills Mountain Bike Association
Trails.com
GORP
Spearfish Canyon Lodge
US Forest Service