Crawford to Lusk
Nebraska, South Dakota, Wyoming
You will start this epic ride in Crawford, Nebraska. From there you will travel 20 miles north to the Toadstool Geologic Park, the Badlands of Nebraska ($3 day use fee). There are trails you can hike, or simply climb on the rocks for some great views. From there you will ride through the beautiful and remote Ogala Grasslands. The vistas are wide open and it's stunningly beautiful, especially once you cross over into the Buffalo Gap Grasslands in South Dakota. You will enjoy incredible long views the entire way. You can camp anywhere in the National Grasslands, just mind the few ranches scattered here and there.
The following day you will leave the grasslands and soon return to the base of the Pine Ridge. You'll turn west and follow along the north side, into Wyoming. From here you embark on a steep climb up to the top of the ridge. It's really steep in places, you may be pushing. But the views are incredible and completely worth it.
When you reach the top, you'll be on BLM land and you can camp there if you like. There's a large, flat grassy area next to the road, or you can take the side road and find a place down there for some privacy.
The remainder of the ride is rolling hills atop the plateau to the charming town of Lusk, Wyoming.
The following day you will leave the grasslands and soon return to the base of the Pine Ridge. You'll turn west and follow along the north side, into Wyoming. From here you embark on a steep climb up to the top of the ridge. It's really steep in places, you may be pushing. But the views are incredible and completely worth it.
When you reach the top, you'll be on BLM land and you can camp there if you like. There's a large, flat grassy area next to the road, or you can take the side road and find a place down there for some privacy.
The remainder of the ride is rolling hills atop the plateau to the charming town of Lusk, Wyoming.
Distance
98 miles
Days
2-3
El. Gain
3552 feet
El. Loss
2242 feet
Max El.
5197 feet
Min El.
3590 feet