Registration Now Available for 11th Annual Mickelson Trail Trek

PIERRE, S.D. – Registration for the 11th Annual Mickelson Trail Trek is now available at the trail’s website, www.MickelsonTrail.com. Game, Fish and Parks officials are encouraging bicyclists to sign up early to save $25 and to get 1 of the 600 available spots in the Trek, which will be held Sept. 19 - 21, 2008.

According to officials, the 2007 Trail Trek attracted a record 545 bicyclists, 21 of which were returning for their 10^th trail trek. “Over the years our goal was to increase the number of riders in the Trek,” said Harley Noem, regional supervisor for the Division of Parks and Recreation. “We were pleased to have a record number of riders for the 10^th annual Trail Trek in 2007. In 2008, we hope to have even more riders.”

The annual supported ride highlights the George S. Mickelson Trail as it winds through the heart of the Black Hills from Edgemont to Lead/Deadwood. The ride began in 1998 as a celebration of the completion of the rails-to-trails project. The Trek continues today to introduce new bicyclists to the trail and to thank supporters for their long-standing enthusiasm for the trail.

Riders on the Trail Trek will ride the 109 miles of trail over three days, from Friday, Sept. 19 through Sunday, Sept. 21. The $150 registration fee includes a trail pass, shuttle service, commemorative souvenirs, refreshments and some meals during each day's ride. Riders are responsible for accommodations and mechanical support. The ride is open to all bicyclists 14 years of age or older.

Pre-registration is required. The registration fee for those who register before July 15, 2008 is $150. Those who register after July 15, 2008 will need to pay $175. Registration can be completed online by visiting www.MickelsonTrail.com and by following the "Trail Trek" link. Materials for registering through the mail are available by calling the Black Hills Trails office at (605) 584-3896 or by printing the registration form found on the trail website.

With the holidays fast approaching, Noem added that a Trail Trek registration makes a great holiday gift. “This holiday season, consider registering the bicycling enthusiasts in your family for the Trail Trek,” he said. “It’s a gift they will never forget and an experience they will take with them always.”

For more information on the Mickelson Trail, visit www.MickelsonTrail.com or contact the Black Hills Trails office at (605) 584-3896.

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