Exploring South Dakota on Two Wheels: An Adventurer’s Journey
Turning 50 marked a pivotal moment for Graham Averill, a well-traveled national parks columnist, who decided to embark on a unique adventure in South Dakota. Leaving his mountain bike behind, Averill chose a motorcycle for his exploration through South Dakota’s stunning landscapes, including Badlands National Park and Black Hills National Forest, both known for their motorcycle-friendly routes.
This midwestern state is renowned for its diverse terrain, from alien-like desert landscapes to lush, pine-covered mountains, making it an ideal spot for motorcyclists seeking adventure. South Dakota’s infrastructure supports motorcycle enthusiasts, amplified by the annual Sturgis Rally which draws countless bikers to the region each year.
To prepare for his first-ever motorcycle journey, Averill enrolled in a course by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, which equips beginners with essential riding skills. Armed with this training and his newly-minted license, Averill and his companion, Keener, began their motorcycle odyssey in Rapid City. Known as the ultimate basecamp for exploring South Dakota’s prime motorcycle terrain, Rapid City provides proximity to both Badlands National Park and the Black Hills.
Badlands National Park
The duo covered over 300 miles aboard vintage-style adventure bikes—specifically Royal Enfield Himalayans—navigating South Dakota’s variegated landscapes with awe. From speeding across flat farmlands at 70 mph, marveling at the impressive buffalo, to confronting unexpected challenges like a dead-end at a stream in the Black Hills, every moment was memorable.
Among the most riveting stretches was the iconic Iron Mountain Road, a two-lane blacktop famous for its thrilling curves and a series of tunnels framing majestic views of Mount Rushmore. Another highlight was the Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park, an 18-mile ride that allows adventurers to witness local wildlife like buffalo and antelope up close.
With each mile, Averill’s enthusiasm for motorcycling grew, describing the experience as invigorating and undeniably romantic. “Pulling on the throttle and leaning the bike as you exit a turn on a mountain road is exhilarating. It makes you feel alive,” Averill shared.
Though initially daunted by high speeds and the need for cumbersome safety gear, Averill encouraged new riders to embrace the journey slowly. “Take a lot of breaks, explore dirt roads just for the hell of it,” he recommended.
Backed by Mike Crockett’s Vintage Rides in Rapid City, Averill and Keener could rent well-equipped bikes complete with passes to essential destinations like Badlands National Park. “These bikes are like Leatherman tools,” Crockett noted. “They’re not the perfect tool for any one thing, but they’re really good at everything.”
The adventure culminated in Black Hills National Forest, a vast expanse of over 1.25 million acres offering numerous dirt trails and hidden gems. While some paths tested the riders’ skills, the satisfaction of exploring such a picturesque landscape was immeasurable.
For Averill, this motorcycle journey through South Dakota was more than just a mid-life adventure; it was a new chapter in appreciating different modes of travel. He now harbors a newfound appreciation for motorbikes, considering them a thrilling way to engage with the world.
Interested in creating your own adventure in South Dakota? Embark with a mindset of exploration over speed, ensuring you soak in the rich, varied landscapes this magnificent state offers.
South Dakota, with its blend of heritage and rugged beauty, provides more than just a ride—it offers a path to gratitude and daring reinvention at any stage of life.