Lead, S.D. – Despite a short period of rain, the 14th annual Mickelson Trail Trek was a success.

“The ride went well, everyone had a great time and will have stories to tell about bicycling in a beautiful area with great people,” said Dana Garry, Mickelson Trail manager. “We were excited to have 511 riders, of which 13 were returning for their 14th year.”

This year’s event, held Sept. 16-18, brought people to the Black Hills from 24 states and Canada. Over the three days, trekkers rode past scenic Sheep Canyon, Crazy Horse Monument, across the Freedom Bridge south of Mystic and rode into Lead/Deadwood on the final leg of the trail.

“The beautiful Black Hills scenery and fall colors help attract riders each year along with the good food and new friends that are made,” said Garry.

Staff from the South Dakota Division of Parks and Recreation, along with many volunteers, worked hard to pull this year’s Trail Trek together, Garry said. She also wanted to especially acknowledge and thank the volunteers and town Chambers of Commerce that greeted the trekkers with water, snacks, ice cream and meals along the way.

The annual ride is held the third weekend of September, with the 2012 Trail Trek scheduled for Sept. 14-16. Online registration should be available in December, and Garry encourages riders to sign up as early as possible to ensure a spot in the ride. The trek is limited to 600 riders.

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