Sturgis Bike Week, Inc. | Granite Spires

The Granite Spires run is a classic slice of pure Americana. Start your ride from Rapid City on a smooth rail of blacktop, twisting and turning your way through the narrow, granite canyons of Rimrock Highway (SD Highway 44). Ride South on US Highway 385 past shades of dark pine and crystal blue lakes that mirror the clouds perfectly on a hot, August day. As you continue your ride on SD Highway 87 stop at Sylvan Lake ($5 park entrance fee, per person) for a hearty buffalo burger and a well-deserved break, take a deep breath of pine-fresh Black Hills air, and relax.

What follows you after your rest is one of the most incredible rides through the famed Needles Highway. Sharp, granite spires greet you on every turn as you continue your descent on SD Highway 87 past roaming herds of “tatanka” grazing along the Wildlife Loop Road. US Highway 16A provides the route back to Rapid City, but there is plenty more to see as you lean into the pigtail turns and ride through narrow tunnels that provide a perfect frame of George, Thomas, Teddy and Abe. If you could pick one ride that encompasses the Black Hills riding experience - this is it! Have fun, ride safely and don’t be afraid to explore all the exciting happenings in each town nestled throughout the hills!