Full-Day Private Bike Tour of Mickelson Trail and Brewery

Discover the Black Hills on a Private Bike Tour

If you’re looking to see the Black Hills away from the crowds, this full-day private bike tour offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and local flavor. Starting in Rapid City, you’ll spend about 6 to 7 hours exploring the George S. Mickelson Trail—an area loved by locals—and ending with a visit to a charming Hill City brewery. For a reasonable $360 per person, you get guided bike rides, scenic views, snacks, and a taste of South Dakota’s local produce.

Two details we particularly appreciate are the accessible, mostly downhill ride along the Mickelson Trail—making it suitable for a wide range of fitness levels—and the chance to sample award-winning wines and local brews in the Hill City area. The tour also includes transportation, which means you won’t have to worry about driving after sampling the drinks or navigating the trail.

One potential consideration is that e-bike rentals are an extra $30—if you prefer a little extra help climbing or longer rides, this option might be worth considering. Also, the pickup is limited to Rapid City, so if you’re staying outside the city, additional fees may apply. This tour is best suited for adventure-loving travelers who appreciate scenic, easy rides and authentic local experiences. It’s ideal if you want to combine outdoor activity with some regional tasting.

Key Points

• Accessible Scenic Ride: The 18-mile stretch of Mickelson Trail is mostly downhill and suitable for all fitness levels.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Kevin and Randy are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentive support.
• Local Flavors: The tour includes visits to a winery with tastings and a brewery with outdoor seating, adding a tasty local touch.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicles make the trip relaxed and hassle-free.
• Quality Equipment: Gravel bikes and helmets are provided, with e-bikes available for an extra fee.
• Flexible and Private: This activity is exclusive to your group, with options for longer rides and customized experiences.

An In-Depth Look at the Full-Day Private Bike Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins in Rapid City, where your guides will pick you up from your hotel—within city limits—making logistics straightforward. The tour begins early, with pickups starting around 7:30 AM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day. The air-conditioned vehicle provides a comfortable ride to the trailhead, about an hour away, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenery even before you hit the trail.

This transportation setup is especially beneficial if you’re traveling with family or a group, as it removes the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads. The private nature of the tour ensures a more personalized experience, free from the constraints of larger groups.

The Mickelson Trail Experience

Once at the George S. Mickelson Trail, the focus shifts to enjoying outdoor scenery and gentle exercise. The guide spends time preparing each rider, ensuring bikes and helmets fit properly, and explaining the day’s plan. The 18-mile ride is touted as one of the best day trips in the Black Hills for its scenic beauty and accessibility.

As we pedaled, the trail’s scenery made us feel like we were in a postcard: aspens and birch trees framing the trail, with streams meandering nearby. The mostly downhill nature of the ride means less exertion and more enjoyment, perfect for those who want a relaxed pace. The ride’s gentle terrain makes it an ideal outing for families, casual riders, or anyone new to cycling.

According to reviews, the trail’s not difficult, making it suitable for most fitness levels, yet still offering plenty of stunning views. One rider from a recent tour shared, “the bikes were in great shape, the trail lovely, and the scenery beautiful.” The guide’s leapfrogging—meeting riders along the trail—ensures everyone stays on track and receives support if needed.

Scenic Highlights and Authentic Nature

The trail’s aspens and birch trees, combined with flowing streams, create a tranquil atmosphere. The ride is about three hours, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. For those craving more, longer options may be available, which the guides are happy to discuss at booking.

Many travelers, including one who called it a “lovely ride,” appreciated how the trail’s serenity let them really connect with nature. The experience seems to strike a perfect balance—offering enough effort to feel accomplished but not so much that it’s exhausting.

The Winery and Lunch Stop

After the bike ride, the group heads back toward Hill City, where you have the option to visit a local winery. The Hill City Winery offers five wine tastings, which many visitors find to be a highlight. One review enthusiastically mentioned that the winery was a lot of fun, emphasizing the quality of the tastings and the friendly atmosphere.

The lunch at the winery or nearby is generally well-received, with one reviewer calling it delicious. However, it’s worth noting that the winery’s kitchen may be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so the guide may need to drive you to an alternative lunch spot. This flexibility demonstrates the tour’s thoughtful planning.

Brewery Option and Relaxed Finish

A favorite part for many guests is the outdoor Lost Cabin Beer Garden, located at the Burlington Trailhead near Hill City. Here, you can unwind with a local craft beer, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and reflect on the day’s scenic ride. This stop adds a relaxed, social element that many travelers appreciate.

The return drive to Rapid City takes about 45 minutes, giving you a chance to chat about the day’s highlights or simply enjoy the scenery one last time.

What We Love About This Tour

The guides’ knowledge and friendliness really stood out—riders consistently mention how helpful and personable they are, making the experience more enjoyable. The scenic, mostly downhill trail is a major plus, especially for those who want to enjoy nature without strenuous effort. Plus, the combination of outdoor activity with local wine and beer tastings offers a genuine taste of the region’s hospitality.

What Could Be Better?

The extra cost for e-bikes might be a consideration if you prefer a little assistance or longer rides. Also, if you’re staying outside Rapid City, transportation fees may increase. But overall, the tour’s value lies in its personalized approach, stunning scenery, and the chance to savor local flavors.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to combine light physical activity with authentic regional tastes. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate a relaxed pace in beautiful surroundings. If you enjoy scenic outdoor rides and local wine or beer, this is a memorable way to spend a day in South Dakota.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup within Rapid City. If you stay outside the city, additional fees may apply.

What is the difficulty level of the bike ride?
The 18-mile trail is mostly downhill and very accessible, suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners.

Are bikes provided?
Yes, gravel bikes and helmets are included. E-bikes are available for an extra $30 per bike.

What about food and drinks?
Snacks are provided during the ride, and you’ll have the option to taste wine at the winery and enjoy local beers at the brewery. Lunch is typically included or arranged at a nearby spot.

Can I extend the ride?
Longer ride options may be available; you can discuss this when booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor riding, plus layers in case of weather changes. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, kids as young as 9 enjoyed the experience, but a moderate physical fitness level is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves bike riding on a trail; those with mobility challenges should consider their comfort level or contact the provider for specific needs.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Private Bike Tour offers a superb combination of scenic cycling, local culinary experiences, and relaxing stops in South Dakota’s Black Hills. It’s a well-organized, personalized adventure that balances effort with reward, making it perfect for those who want a gentle outdoor activity complemented by regional flavors.

For travelers seeking a low-stress, authentic experience with knowledgeable guides and beautiful views, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or small groups who value both scenic beauty and a taste of local hospitality. The inclusion of wine tastings and outdoor beer garden stops adds a memorable touch that elevates this beyond just a bike ride.

If you’re after a relaxing yet engaging day that combines nature, culture, and great company, this tour is a smart choice.

Summary

This private, guided bike tour along the Mickelson Trail offers easy access to some of South Dakota’s most beautiful scenery. The professional guides, scenic rides, and regional tastings make it a well-rounded experience. It provides good value through private transportation, quality bikes, and authentic local stops. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine outdoor activity with a taste of the local hospitality scene. A perfect way to see the Black Hills with a relaxed pace and personalized touch.