For Immediate Release: Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2003

Contact: Harley Noem (605) 584-3896

Explore the Heart of the Black Hills on the Mickelson Trail Trek

Bicyclists will cruise along gentle slopes, over more than 100 wooden trestle bridges and through four hardrock tunnels during the sixth annual Mickelson Trail Trek, Sept. 19-21. Built along an abandoned railroad bed, the 114-mile long Mickelson Trail weaves through the heart of the Black Hills National Forest.

The ride begins Friday, Sept.19, in Custer when participants will cycle 44.5 miles to Edgemont. Bikers leave from the Custer Chamber of Commerce at 10 a.m. Riders start Saturday’s cruise in Custer at 8:30 a.m. and end in Rochford (39.5 miles). Sunday’s ride begins at 10 a.m. and travels from Rochford to Deadwood (24 miles).

Nearly 200 fat tire riders are expected for the three-day cruise. Registration is $125 per person and includes some meals, shuttling/transportation services, bike security for Saturday night, trail pass, T-shirt and a commemorative souvenir. Visit www.mickelsontrail.com to register on-line or call (605) 584-3896 to request a registration packet. Pre-registration is required and must be submitted by Sept. 3, 2003.

The Mickelson Trail Trek has been designated a "Great Event" by the South Dakota Department of Tourism and State Development. With that designation, the department provides assistance to event coordinators and creates and funds promotions for the event. The objective of the "Great Events" program is to boost attendance at South Dakota events and to increase economic impact in host communities. For a free South Dakota Vacation Guide, call 1-800-S-DAKOTA (1-800-732-5682) or go to www.travelsd.com.

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