Century Rides in South Dakota
The comprehensive 2026 directory of 100-mile centuries, metric centuries (62 miles), and endurance cycling tours across South Dakota.
Cycling in South Dakota: Terrain & Route Overview
South Dakota is home to some of the most dramatic and historic landscape features in North America. In the western portion of the state, the Black Hills rise majestically above the plains, offering paved century routes winding through towering granite spires, dense ponderosa pines, and past monumental landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. The George S. Mickelson Trail provides a 109-mile rail-trail corridor through the heart of the hills. Further east, riders can explore the other-worldly terrain of Badlands National Park or roll across the vast, golden agricultural expanses flanking the Missouri River. Long summer days, crisp mornings, and low traffic density make South Dakota an exhilarating, bucket-list century adventure.
Terrain Characteristics: Black Hills granite peaks and pine forests, Badlands dramatic formations, and Missouri River plains.
Riding Season & Weather: May through September.
📍 South Dakota Century Rides Map
4 Plotted EventsGold Rush Gravel Grinder
JuneChallenging gravel century navigating deep canyons, historic logging roads, and high plateaus of the Black Hills.
Mickelson Trail Century Trek
SeptemberPremier 109-mile crushed-limestone rail-trail traversing historic mining towns, railroad trestles, and mountain meadows.
Ride Across South Dakota
JuneAn annual bicycle ride to enjoy the beautiful scenery and hospitality of South Dakota, featuring a variety of landscapes and small town charm.
Sioux Falls River Greenway Century
JulyCombines the paved Big Sioux River Loop with rolling country blacktop through southeast South Dakota farmland.