Full-Day Private Bike Tour of Mickelson Trail and Brewery

Discovering the Black Hills on a Private Bike Tour: A Friendly Deep Dive

Imagine cruising along quiet trails, soaking in stunning views, and ending your day with a refreshing wine or beer – all curated for you and your small group. That’s exactly what the Full-Day Private Bike Tour of Mickelson Trail and Brewery offers. This experience promises not just a scenic ride but a well-rounded taste of South Dakota’s natural beauty and local flavors.

What really draws us to this tour are a couple of standout features: First, the guided experience ensures you’re in good hands no matter your biking skill level, and the combination of trail riding with wine and beer tastings makes it a uniquely enjoyable day out. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that while the ride is accessible, you’ll need a moderate level of physical fitness, especially if you opt for the full day.

This tour is a smart pick for travelers who appreciate a blend of outdoor activity, local culture, and some leisure – especially those who enjoy a bit of wine or craft beer along the way. If you’re someone who loves scenic cycling but doesn’t want to spend hours in the saddle, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Scenic and accessible route: 18 miles of mostly downhill trail through beautiful Black Hills scenery.
• All-inclusive gear: Gravel bikes and helmets are provided, with e-bikes available for an extra fee.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides ensure a safe, informative, and enjoyable ride.
• Flexible stops: Options for winery visits and brewery visits, with some flexibility if locations are closed.
• Comfort and convenience: Private transportation, hotel pickup within Rapid City, and snacks included.
• Cost and value: At $360 per person, it’s a pricier outing but includes many elements that make it a seamless experience.

The Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour kicks off in Rapid City, with hotel pickup included within city limits. This is a real plus, removing the hassle of finding your way to the trailhead. The guides come prepared with your bikes, helmets, and trail passes, making the start smooth. If you’re staying outside Rapid City, a destination fee might apply, so it’s worth confirming when booking.

The Ride Along the Mickelson Trail

The heart of this experience is the 18-mile ride along the Mickelson Trail, starting near Hill City. The trail is described as very slightly downhill and suitable for all fitness levels, which makes it appealing even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist. The scenery is a highlight here: aspens, birch trees, and streams lining the trail create a peaceful backdrop.

We loved the way the guide “leapfrogged” along the trail, checking in with each rider and ensuring everyone was comfortable. One reviewer, Cindy, mentioned, “Kevin was an awesome tour guide. The bikes were in great shape, the trail lovely, not difficult and beautiful scenery.” This suggests the ride is accessible and enjoyable, even for those new to biking.

Scenic Stops and Optional Extensions

While the main ride covers 18 miles, there’s flexibility to extend the ride if you’re feeling energetic. The focus is on enjoying the scenery at a relaxed pace, which means you can take your time to appreciate nature or take photos.

Brewery and Winery Visits

A highlight for many is the stop at the Lost Cabin Beer Garden near the Burlington Trailhead or visiting a local winery. The beer garden is outdoors, offering a relaxed vibe with scenic views, while the winery provides a chance to sample up to five different wines. One visitor, Kathleen, shared, “Enjoyed our day with Randy exploring the downhill portion of the Mickelson trail. We went to the winery but the kitchen was closed, so they drove us to another lunch spot.” It’s worth noting that winery visits might be affected by staffing or operational hours, so it’s good to be flexible.

Return Journey and End of Tour

After the tastings, the group is transported back to Rapid City in an air-conditioned vehicle, a comfortable way to wind down after a day outdoors. The entire experience lasts around 6 to 7 hours, making it a full-day adventure but not overly taxing.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra?

The tour’s price of $360 per person covers quite a lot: gravel bike rental, helmet, snacks, private transportation, trail pass, a souvenir water bottle, and the scenic ride itself. It’s clear that the fee reflects a curated, hassle-free experience with knowledgeable guides.

Additional costs include e-bike rentals at $30 per bike and lunch (which is not included). If you’re a fan of craft beer or wine, the tastings are included, which adds significant value. The private aspect of the tour means you’re not in a large group, making for a more personalized outing.

Is it worth the price?

Considering all the elements—guided support, quality bikes, included tastings, and transportation—it’s a fair price for a day that combines active recreation with leisure and local flavor. Plus, reviews underscore how much travelers appreciate the expertise of the guides and the scenic beauty.

The Experience from the Travelers’ Perspective

Both reviewers raved about their guides—Kevin and Randy—highlighting their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness. Cindy noted, “Kevin also provided snacks, beverages and checked on us along the way,” which shows how personal the service is. The scenery gets high praise too, with “very lovely” views that make the effort worthwhile.

The flexibility and ease of the itinerary appeal to those who want a relaxed but active day. One reviewer mentioned the ride was “easy at your own pace,” perfect for those who want to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or exhausted.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is a good fit for active travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities and want a taste of South Dakota’s natural beauty. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, but you don’t need to be an expert cyclist. Families with older children might find it enjoyable, especially if they’re comfortable on bikes, but younger kids might find the 18-mile ride a bit much unless they’re avid bikers.

If you’re interested in local food and drink, this tour hits that mark too, making it a well-rounded day for lovers of scenic cycling, wine, and beer. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a private, curated experience.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book in advance, since the tour is popular and typically booked around 59 days ahead.
• Arrive early or be ready for pickup at your hotel; the tour starts at 7:30 AM.
• Consider upgrading to an e-bike if you prefer a little extra assistance, especially if you’re concerned about the slightly downhill profile.
• Confirm winery or brewery hours if you want to plan your lunch or tastings accordingly.
• Pack a small camera, sunglasses, and sunscreen—scenery and sunshine are part of the appeal.
• Be prepared for a full day outdoors, so dress in comfortable, layered clothing that can handle changing weather.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, complimentary hotel pickup is offered within Rapid City. Outside the city, a destination fee may apply.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including riding, tastings, and transportation.

Are e-bikes available?
Yes, e-bikes are available for an additional $30 per bike.

What meals are included?
Lunch is not included, but snacks are provided during the ride. The winery visit usually includes a tasting, and the brewery stop features outdoor beer garden tastings.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the ride’s gentle downhill profile and accessible terrain make it suitable for older children comfortable on bikes.

What about weather?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Does the tour accommodate special needs?
The description emphasizes a moderate physical fitness level, but no specific accommodations are mentioned. It’s best to inquire directly if you have special requirements.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book around 59 days ahead, so early booking is recommended to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

This private bike tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic riding, local tasting experiences, and personalized service. It’s designed for travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging way to see the Black Hills and enjoy some of South Dakota’s best food and drink. The guides’ friendliness, combined with the stunning views and accessible trail, make it a solid choice for those seeking a memorable day out with nature and good company.

If you appreciate guided experiences that keep things simple and enjoyable, and you’re excited about combining outdoor activity with a bit of wine or beer tasting, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a thoughtful, high-quality outing that delivers both scenery and flavor—definitely worth considering for your Black Hills adventure.

Note: Always verify current tour details and availability directly with the provider before booking.