Bike Tour on the Mickelson Trail
Related: Biking, Mickelson Trail, South Dakota, Vacation
I recently returned from a bicycle touring trip on the George S. Mickelson Trail in western South Dakota. The Mickelson Trail is a 110 mile converted railroad bed that runs through the heart of the Black Hills. The trail is fairly rugged and passes through the Black Hills National Forest offering up some great views of mountain landscapes and wildlife.
This is an annual trip that I’ve been doing in the late fall since the mid 90′s. I do a few bicycle touring trips during the summer but I really look forward to the Mickelson Trail trip as it has the most pristine scenery and the fall colors do wonders to recharge my energy.
Bike touring is a great outdoor activity that just about anyone can do. It is one of the few activities you can participate in nearly all your life. Most of the people I encounter on my bike trips are much older than I am and can probably easily outlast me on a day-long ride.
I’ve been riding a bike since my college days and find it to be my favorite form of exercise. The great thing about riding a bike is that you never seem to tire from it. You aren’t stuck in a smelly gym on a treadmill staring at a television set. On a bike you get some sunlight and fresh air and have the freedom to go nearly anywhere you please.
Some day I would like to do a cross-country trip; maybe take some extended time off and just take my time working my way across the United States. There is something exhilarating about having all your belongings strapped to your bike and knowing you don’t have the support of a shuttle or sag wagon. When you travel via bicycle you get to see so much more than you would from the comfort of your car.
Last Updated on June 7th, 2008
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