BLACK HILLS SOUTH DAKOTA:
2024 Riding Season Route Updates
Updated March 11th, 2024
BLACK HILLS SOUTH DAKOTA:
March 11th, 2024
New Tracks Available for Download
We are in the process of releasing updated GPS track files for every one of our routes in an ongoing effort to keep track files current and evolving with changing route conditions and considerations for fuel.
As a general reference to the updates for track files labeled xxBDR-March2024:
- Some section starts/ends have shifted in our track files and may not match older versions of the BDR Map. We typically aim to keep each section less than 150mi in length. Sections that exceed this length generally have fuel options along the route or optional tracks to a nearby town for fuel along the way.
- Regardless of the documentary film, older track files, or previous map versions, the most current GPS track file is always considered the “current” route.
- Some routes have had updates for track difficulty classifications, new tracks added, shifts to section starts or ends, and additional waypoints and these updates will be reflected on the next map reprint.
- All track files have been updated with revised naming conventions, track colors, waypoints, discovery points, and more.
- GPS track colors have been updated as follows:
- Main Route: Alternating BLUE and DARK BLUE
- ALT Harder & ALT Expert tracks: RED
- Bypass, Extension, or Optional Fuel tracks: GREEN
- Our track colors will now carry over when imported into Gaia GPS. If they do not match these colors when you import, simply manually change the track colors to match, or select your own preferred track colors.
- GPS track colors don’t necessarily match the BDR Map. This is due to the difference in color visibility on GPS devices vs printed paper map products.
- Updates to our interactive map are in process to reflect these updates. You can launch the interactive map HERE.
- Always download the most recent track files just before you go HERE
| Black Hills BDR-X TRACK GUIDE | BH-X | ||
| Track File: BDR-X BlackHills SD-March2024 | |||
| SECTION | GPS TRACK NAME | MILEAGE | CUMULATIVE |
| 1 | BH BDRX1 – Keystone to Spearfish | 93.1 | 93.1 |
| 2 | BH BDRX2 – Spearfish to Hill City | 109 | 202.1 |
| 2 | BH BDRX2 EXT – Rochford | 3.5 | |
| 3 | BH BDRX3 – Hill City to Keystone | 153 | 355.1 |
| 3 | BH BDRX3 ALT Harder – Bear Mountain | 9.9 | |
| 3 | BH BDRX3 EXT – Wind Cave Natl Park | 4.6 | |
| 3 | BH BDRX3 EXT – Mt Coolidge | 3.4 | |
| TOTAL MAIN TRACK LENGTH | 355.1 | ||
| TOTAL ALL TRACKS LENGTH | 376.5 |
November 20th, 2023
Winter is Coming: Check snow levels with our interactive map
With winter upon us, weather and route conditions can change rapidly. Before you go, be sure and use our ArcGIS Interactive Map to view estimated snow levels on each of our routes.
- Click HERE to access the main interactive map page.
- Click on the snowflake icon in the top right of the window.
- Select all of the boxes to view the NOHRSC Snow Analysis.
- Zoom into the route of your choosing to view the estimated snow depth.
- Explore the other features of our interactive map to plan your next BDR experience.
- See attached screenshot for reference.
July 22nd, 2023
Easy access to Bear Mountain Lookout Tower – Section 3
If you decide to remain on the main track and not take the ALT Harder track up Bear Mountain, you can still backtrack to the lookout tower for the incredible views.
- At the intersection of Ditch Creek Road and the Alt Harder track, you can backtrack on the ALT Harder track via a gravel road to the lookout tower.
- The more difficult portion of the ALT Harder track is north of the lookout tower.
- See attached image for reference.
As always, be sure and download the latest .gpx file prior to your ride HERE
Join our Facebook Group for more route updates.
Visit the official Black Hills South Dakota BDR-X Facebook Group page for ride reports, photos, and discussions with other riders in your area HERE.
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