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George S. Mickelson Trail News
Scroll down for complete articles

  • New Publication Guides Bird Watchers Along the Mickelson Trail (8/22/05)
  • Mickelson Trail Named in the "Best of the Midwest" (6/2004)

 

New Publication Guides Bird Watchers Along the Mickelson Trail (8/22/05)
A new publication is available to help Mickelson Trail users see the trail from a birder’s-eye view. The free publication, entitled A Birder’s Guide to the Mickelson Trail, guides bird watchers along the 109-mile trail.

"The Birder’s Guide is great for both beginning and experienced bird watchers," said Linda Sandness, coordinator of visitor services for the SD Division of Parks and Recreation. "The booklet is divided into sections, trailhead to trailhead. Birders can learn about the habitat in each area as well as when and where to look for specific birds."

The 32-page booklet includes additional resources such as a trail map, bird checklist and birding tips.

The Birder’s Guide to the Mickelson Trail is available by stopping by the Black Hills Trail Office in Lead, by calling them at (605) 584-3896, or by calling the division office in Pierre at (605) 773-3391. A printable version is also available at www.MickelsonTrail.com or on the GFP Publications webpage.

The project was a cooperative effort by the South Dakota Division of Parks and Recreation, the George S. Mickelson Trail Coalition, and the South Dakota Parks and Wildlife Foundation.

In addition to the Mickelson Trail bird watching guide, birders may consult the Bird Watching Guide for SD State Parks, which outlines where and when to view unique bird species in 17 state parks throughout South Dakota. Also available is the Birding Checklist, which lists the bird species found in South Dakota, including rare/accidental species, and the time of the year each can commonly be seen. These two publications were sponsored in part by a grant from the Wildlife Conservation and Restoration Program. The Bird Watching Guide was also produced in partnership with the SD Department of Health in an effort to promote healthy living through physical activity. Both are available at your local state park office or by calling (605) 773-3391.

For more information on the SD state parks, visit www.sdgfp.info/Parks or call (605) 773-3391.

- GFP-

 

Mickelson Trail Named in the "Best of the Midwest"  (Summer 2004)
In only its fifth year since completion, the George S. Mickelson Trail has already earned acclaim as of one of the region's best biking trails.

Midwest Living recently named the Mickelson Trail runner-up for Best Bike-Riding Trail, in the magazine's "Best of the Midwest" issue. The magazine asked readers to submit their favorite picks to compile the list.

"Even though the trail is still in its infancy, we are appreciative that the users think highly enough of the trail to nominate the trail for this award," says Shannon Percy, Black Hills Trails Office. "Trail use is steadily increasing, but through recognition such as this, it will grow by leaps and bounds."

The 114-mile George S. Mickelson Trail was completed in 1998 as part of the rails-to-trails project. It winds through the heart of the Black Hills from Edgemont to Lead/Deadwood, much of the trail passing through National Forest Land. Riders encounter more than 100 converted railroad bridges and four hardrock tunnels along the scenic route. Gentle slopes and easy access allow people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the beauty of the Black Hills along the trail.

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

 

 

 

 

 

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