Mickelson Trail: Burlington Northern Hill City Trailhead

Sitting at mile marker 60.1 on the George S. Mickelson Trail, the Burlington Northern Hill City Trailhead is widely considered one of the best starting points on the entire 109-mile route — especially for families and first-time riders. The trailhead features a playground, clean restroom facilities, and ample parking, and is located in Tracy Park on Railroad Avenue in Hill City — putting you within easy walking distance of the town's restaurants, shops, and bike rentals when you're done. The name is a nod to history: the Mickelson Trail follows the former Burlington Northern Railroad line, abandoned in 1983 and converted into South Dakota's first rails-to-trails project. From this trailhead, riders can head south toward Custer on a gentle, mostly flat grade through forested Black Hills terrain, or north toward the four rock tunnels between Hill City and Rochford — one of the most scenic and memorable stretches on the trail. The grades on this section are child-friendly, making it a favorite for families with young riders.