Custer State Park Spur Trail

The Custer State Park Spur is the quiet link that connects two of the Black Hills' best experiences into one continuous ride or walk. This 3.2-mile paved trail connects South Dakota's 109-mile George S. Mickelson Trail to Custer State Park, beginning on Custer's east side and running parallel to U.S. Highway 16 before ending at Stockade Lake inside the park. The trail is mostly gentle with some moderately steep sections, and is accessible for visitors using wheelchairs, mobility equipment, or strollers. A wide grassy median separates the trail from the road, though there is little shade along the route. At the Custer State Park end, the trail delivers you to Stockade Lake and the Gordon Stockade — a replica of a log fortress built during the 1874 gold rush. For cyclists and hikers on a multi-day Mickelson Trail adventure, the spur also provides a direct link to camping opportunities inside the park. Parking is available in Custer State Park. A $4 trail fee applies, with a self-pay station at the Custer State Park trailhead.