Dan Aerobic
May 7, 2026

The George S. Mickelson Trail

George S. Mickelson's Excellent Adventure

endurance gravel bikepacking south dakota deadwood edgemont

Feels appropriate that the first post on this blog coincides with something I’ve never done before. Sure, I’ve ridden gravel roads. Of course I’ve done a century or two back in my day - even as recent as this past Labor Day (okay - that was 96.74 miles but it’s the thought that counts). But never have I ever attempted a back-to-back century ride…on gravel…unsupported…in South Dakota!

I’ll be heading from Deadwood to Edgemont and back between May 12th and May 13th on the George S. Mickelson Trail. The videos and pictures I’ve found online look amazing, and I’m hoping that the experience is one in the same. Or one in a million. It depends on how optimistic you’re feeling.

I’ve created a tracking beacon of sorts, thanks to a friend of mine who does long-distance motorcycle trips. You should be able to follow along here, seeing updates in five-minute increments:

https://spotwalla.com/trip/3655-11ab63f04-94c0/view

I’ve been told that internet coverage is spotty, but it should still push updates along the way. That’s one small step for Dan…one mildly questionable decision for for mankind.

If you’re feeling compelled (or just curious how this goes), feel free to follow along. Send good vibes along the way and I’ll post a recap when I return!