Black Hills marathons
In the Black Hills, long-distance runners can rejoice in conquering some of the most drop-dead gorgeous trails anywhere during several annual world-class running events. They are:
- Deadwood Mickelson Trail Marathon: This year’s event is June 3. The run starts at the Rochford trailhead near the Rochford Fire Station on the Mickelson Trail. The course stays on the scenic Mickelson Trail for 23 miles before heading through downtown Deadwood and the finish line at the Days of ’76 Rodeo arena. There is a fee to participate. For more information, call 605-642-2382 or go online to www.deadwoodmickelsontrailmarathon.com.
- Spearfish Canyon Half-Marathon and 5K Walk: This year’s event is July 28. The half-marathon is a 13.1 mile run, and the walk is six miles through cool, scenic Spearfish Canyon. There is a fee to participate. For more information, call 605-722-4558.
- Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Marathon: This year’s event is Oct. 6-8. The annual 26.2 mile trek, which starts at Custer Crossing Campground on Highway 385 and ends at Rapid City's Sioux Park, is a qualifying course for the storied Boston Marathon. There is a fee to participate. For more information, call 605-343-1744 or go online to www.mountrushmoremarathon.com.
