Cycling in South Dakota

Lots of bicycling option in the Black Hills region and along the Mickelson Trail. Mount Rushmore is the big attraction of South Dakota.

Cycling conditions
The state has funds available for bicycle education programs. On some roads there are obligatory bicycle lanes, which often have a limited width.

Landscape
South Dakota can be separated in an eastern and a western part by the north-south flowing Missouri River and a highland, the Coteau de Missouri. The eastern part is characterized by low hills and hundreds of lakes. The fertile black soil makes this part good farmland. The higher prairies in the west are a part of the Great Plains and more suitable for cattle breeding. In the far west are the forested Black Hills (part of the Rocky Mountains) and the beautiful eroded Badlands.

Climate
South Dakota has a typical continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. There is little rainfall