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Celebrate Our Trail Community - Eric H.

Eric H. has been living in the Black Hills area for 48 of his 52 years, growing up in Sturgis. He now lives in Lead and works as an Occupation Realtor. Enjoying the outdoors has always been part of growing up in the Black Hills for Eric. He mostly enjoys biking and camping/backpacking on the trails. He prefers trying out new routes instead of the same trail. One of his favorite memories is his first date with his wife at the Crazy Horse Volksmarch. He’s ready to hit the trail any time of year either by himself or with a group. He loves going out on an adventure with whoever is up for the outing.

About Me

Name: Eric H.

Age: 52

Current City: Lead

Occupation: Occupation Realtor

How long I’ve lived in the hills: 48 years

Where I grew up: Sturgis

My family: 2 kids, 3 Grandkids, 2 Dogs

Shadow of Eric cycling on a black Hills trail in the fall
eric-dog-bike-trail

What's your favorite way to enjoy the trails?

Biking and Camping/Bikepacking

How did you first fall in love with exploring the outdoors?

Its just been part of my life growing up here

What’s your favorite Black Hills trail and why?

What’s your favorite Black Hills trail and why? Its an evolution. I love finding new trails and routes.

What’s your most memorable moment on a Black Hills trail?

Oh gosh, I have so many, probably the Crazy Horse Volksmarch was my first date with my wife.

What kind of trail day makes you happiest?

Long solo days with no phone calls, and Christmas tree hunts with the family.

What’s your favorite time of year to explore the Hills?

Anytime of year

Camp site in the black hills with sun rays filtering through pine trees
eric-old-baldy-summit-bike-trail

Who’s your favorite trail companion (person, pet, or solo)?

Whoever is game, is my favorite that day.

Which trail would you recommend for beginners?

Any part of the Mickelson is great

What’s one helpful tip you’d share with someone exploring the Black Hills for the first time?

The weather changes quickly.

If you could only hike or bike one trail in the Black Hills for the rest of your life, which trail would you choose and why?

Oofta, I think without variety, I’d end up with a different hobby

What’s the funniest thing that has ever happened to you outdoors?

Lost my sandal in the lake/mud after I failed to set my sailboat out to open water. Then I had to abandon my boat on shore and walk a mile back to camp with 1 sandal.

If trails could talk, which one would have the best stories?

Old Deadwood stage trails

What’s your favorite nature/outdoor quote or saying?

“The mountains are calling and I must go” John Muir

view of twin creeks in the Black Hills
view of black hills river in the autumn with leaves changing to yellow and red

Sunrise or sunset?

Whichever is in front of me

Wildflowers or wildlife?

Both

Smooth trails or rugged terrain?

Typically Rugged

Solo or group adventures?

Both

Plan it or wing it?

I love to wing it, but a planned adventure is great.

Track miles or just explore?

Check my miles when exploration is over

Sweet or savory trail snacks?

Snacks, lots of snacks

What’s your dream trail or outdoor adventure destination outside the Black Hills?

Patagonia Fishing/backpacking

If you could go on a trail adventure with any celebrity or historical figure, who would you choose and why?

Its best not to meet your idols

Waterfalls or summits?

Both

eric-black-hills-mushrooms-on-the-trail

Nominate Someone From Our Trail Community

Do you know someone who loves spending time on local trails? We’d love to celebrate them! Nominate a friend, family member, or fellow trail-goer who enjoys hiking, biking, riding, or simply being outside. Send an email to: info@trailaddict.com

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