Spearfish to Hill City
63 Miles / 3868ft climb
The clue is in the name. Hill City. I had some anxiety the evening before setting off on this ride. This was to be our tenth day’s riding without a rest day and having struggled with yesterday’s 800ft of climb, I wasn’t sure I could manage 4,000ft today. I even checked if there was a bus running between the two towns in case my legs refused to keep moving. But, of course, they didn’t refuse to keep moving, they did me proud and I actually enjoyed even the hills today!
The ride was beautiful today, through Spearfish Canyon. We set off before 7am, so it was cool, quiet, serene and simply stunning.
We stopped for a very welcome, hefty pancake breakfast after completing 30 miles and the biggest hill of the day and then got ourselves to the Mickleson Trail for the last 30+miles of beautiful off road trail with no traffic. I was pleased to find some of our climb was negated by tunnels through the hillside.
We rode at a comfortable pace, there was no rushing today. We stopped to enjoy the scenery, the wildlife, a cool drink, brunch and a seat in the shade.
A few photos attached but the best reflection of today’s scenery is via Caroline’s reel.
Challenging Times 
Another great achievement. You’re certainly ticking off those miles and hills! 💪🏻🙌 xx
I’m surprised you get any miles done with scenery as beautiful as that! X
“The trials you face will introduce you to your strengths.” Epictetus