Mickelson Trail

The George S. Mickelson Trail is a scenic rails-to-trails pathway stretching through the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota. Originally constructed as part of the Burlington Northern rail line, the railroad carried trains from Edgemont to the northern Black Hills and the gold mines near Deadwood. Built in just nine months and 22 days, the rail line operated for decades before being abandoned in 1983. Recognizing its incredible recreational potential, a dedicated group of outdoor enthusiasts worked with then-Governor George S. Mickelson to transform the corridor into South Dakota’s first rails-to-trails project.

Today, the Mickelson Trail is a premier destination for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, offering crushed limestone surfaces, historic railroad bridges, rock tunnels, and breathtaking views of forests, granite formations, and open meadows. Spanning over 100 miles across the Black Hills, it connects charming towns and provides one of the most accessible and scenic outdoor experiences in the region.