The best road cycling routes around Hill City
27
riders
4
rides
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling around Hill City, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many roads winding through the Black Hills, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it, and we've been there. That's why we've tapped into komoot's incredible community, who have mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, to bring you a curated shortlist. Consider this your shortcut to…
Last updated: May 29, 2026
10
riders
77.0km
04:09
1,380m
1,380m
The Hill City via Iron Mountain Road offers a truly distinctive road cycling experience, blending remarkable engineering with the raw beauty of the Black Hills. You'll navigate the famously winding…
7
riders
42.3km
02:19
720m
720m
The Mount Rushmore loop offers a memorable road cycling experience through the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota. You will wind through diverse landscapes of pine forests and granite formations,…
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11
riders
66.3km
03:54
1,380m
1,380m
Imagine cycling through a landscape where towering granite spires pierce the sky, framed by dense ponderosa pine forests and the serene, crystal blue waters of Sylvan Lake. This challenging road…
43.3km
02:27
780m
780m
The Memorial Team Ice Cream – Hill City loop from Keystone offers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding road cycling experience, taking you through the heart of the Black Hills. This…
44.0km
02:40
800m
800m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Other adventures around Hill City
Tips from the Community
A truly beautiful lake to walk around. The trail is easy, though there's a bit of a climb and a narrow cliff.
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A decorative gate to a private residence that can be admired from Old Hill City Road. The carved metal gate depicts local wildlife and mountain scenes.
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The Black Hills are fossil-rich and from a distance the darker and denser vegetated ridgelines make them appear dark or even black.
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Hill City, South Dakota, has a rich history and plenty of outdoor activities. Founded during the Black Hills gold rush, the town is known as "The Heart of the Hills." You can take a ride on the 1880s-era train for a scenic trip through the area. Hill City is also close to Custer State Park and the George S. Mickelson Trail for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. The Black Hills Institute of Geological Research has fossil exhibits, including the famous T. rex, Sue. With local wineries and easy access to Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, Hill City offers an exciting mix of history, nature, and culture.
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Center Lake is a little quieter than some of the other lakes in the area. This picturesque lake offers a picnic area, playground and small beach. As well as a campground that is ideal for tents and small campers.
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A very beautiful route can only be recommended
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Sylvan Lake is the most popular and recognizable lakes in Custer State Park. The lake is surrounding by granite rock formations that rut out from the ground and gives the lake a unique, beautiful look. There is parking and public restrooms at the lake.
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The Needles Highway is a 14-mile road that is often called the most scenic road in the world. It passes through pine and spruce forests, meadows surrounded by birch and aspen, and rugged granite mountains. The road’s name comes from the needlelike granite formations that seem to pierce the horizon along the highway. The road was planned by former South Dakota Governor Peter Norbeck and before it was constructed it was considered impossible to build. However, the road was completed in 1922 and is now a very popular destination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling around Hill City?
Road cycling around Hill City is characterized by significant elevation changes, offering challenging climbs and descents. Routes frequently traverse scenic mountain roads and connect notable landmarks, providing a varied cycling experience through hilly and mountainous terrain.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Hill City?
While there are no routes explicitly classified as 'easy' in this guide, Hill City offers several 'moderate' road cycling routes. These routes provide a good balance of challenge and accessibility for those with some cycling experience, featuring rolling terrain and manageable climbs.
Which road cycling routes offer views of iconic landmarks?
Many routes in Hill City feature stunning views and pass by significant landmarks. For instance, the Mount Rushmore loop offers direct views of the iconic monument. Other routes, like Mount Rushmore – Hill City loop from Keystone, also provide opportunities to see the monument and other scenic points.
What is the longest road cycling route available in Hill City?
The longest route featured in this guide is Hill City via Iron Mountain Road, which spans 47.8 miles (77.0 km) and involves substantial elevation gain, making it a challenging and rewarding ride.
Are there any loop road cycling trails in Hill City?
Yes, Hill City offers several excellent loop road cycling trails. Popular options include the Mount Rushmore loop and the Mount Rushmore – Hill City loop from Keystone, both providing scenic circular routes.
What are some notable natural attractions or viewpoints along the road cycling routes?
Beyond the routes themselves, the Hill City area is rich with natural beauty. Cyclists can find highlights such as Mount Rushmore, Black Elk Peak, and the serene Sylvan Lake. The Cathedral Spires viewpoint also offers breathtaking vistas.
What is the best season for road cycling in Hill City?
The best season for road cycling in Hill City is typically late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the scenic mountain roads are clear of snow, providing optimal conditions for cycling.
Are there any advanced or difficult road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, experienced riders looking for a challenge will find options like Hill City via Iron Mountain Road, which is classified as 'difficult'. This route features significant elevation gain and a longer distance, perfect for advanced road cyclists.
How many road cycling routes are covered in this guide for Hill City?
This guide features 4 highly-rated road cycling routes around Hill City, offering a selection of moderate to difficult trails through the region's distinctive mountain landscape.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Hill City?
The komoot community frequently praises the challenging climbs and descents, the scenic mountain roads, and the opportunity to connect with iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore. Many appreciate the varied cycling experiences offered by the region's unique geography.
Are there any road cycling routes that pass through or near Hill City itself?
Yes, routes such as Hill City via Iron Mountain Road and Memorial Team Ice Cream – Hill City loop from Hill City are designed to start from or pass through Hill City, making it convenient for local cyclists or visitors staying in the town.
Can I find cafes or places to stop along the road cycling routes in Hill City?
While specific cafes are not detailed for every route, the routes often connect notable landmarks and towns like Hill City and Keystone. These areas typically offer amenities, including cafes and places to rest and refuel, especially along popular tourist routes.
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