Conquer the Wild at the Buffalo 50

Whether you are a seasoned shredder looking to push your limits or a weekend warrior ready to tackle a new challenge, this event offers the perfect blend of technical terrain and breathtaking scenery. From the moment you roll out from Granite Sports to the final pedal stroke at Lost Cabin, you will be immersed in the true spirit of mountain biking.

What to Expect

Diverse Terrain - A mix of fast, flowy sections, technical singletrack, and historic rail-trail segments.
The Challenge - Riders face a demanding 50-mile course designed to test both endurance and technical handling skills.
Scenic Beauty - Experience the iconic Black Hills landscape, featuring deep forests, rock formations, and sweeping vistas.
Team or Solo - Choose your path by tackling the full distance solo or sharing the adventure with friends in the relay category.
Post-Race Vibes - Celebrate your finish at Lost Cabin, where the atmosphere is electric and every rider's story is part of the event's legend.

Course Description

The Buffalo 50 course is a masterclass in South Dakota mountain biking, blending the flow of the Mickelson Trail with the technical, root-and-rock-filled nature of local favorites like Trail 40. The route is designed to keep you on your toes, offering enough elevation gain to keep the heart rate high and enough technical features to keep your focus sharp.

Course Category	Description	Elevation Profile
Solo	Two full loops of the 25-mile course circuit.	High elevation gain; sustained climbs followed by technical descents.
Relay	Teams share the two-loop journey, splitting the distance.	Same challenging profile as the solo route, shared between teammates.

Event Highlights

Strategic Support - Well-placed aid stations to keep you fueled and hydrated throughout the 50-mile trek.
Community Atmosphere - A supportive environment where beginners are encouraged and experts are challenged.
Post-Event Celebration - Join the local community at Lost Cabin for food, drinks, and tall tales from the trail.
Iconic Start/Finish - Experience the unique energy of starting at the heart of Hill City and finishing at one of the region's top gathering spots.
Authentic MTB Culture - This event is built by riders, for riders, focusing on the quality of the trail experience above all else.

The Buffalo 50 is your invitation to experience the best of South Dakota's trail network. Pack your bike, prep your gear, and come prepared for a day of adrenaline-fueled fun. We will see you on the start line.

Buffalo 50 Course & Elevation

The Buffalo 50 Course & Elevation Map - aerial view and elevation chart

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the technical difficulty of the Buffalo 50 course?

Expect a mix of classic South Dakota singletrack and faster sections. While the route includes flowing segments on the Mickelson Trail, be prepared for technical features and elevation changes on Trail 40 that will test your handling skills.

Is this race suitable for beginner mountain bikers?

The Buffalo 50 is a challenge designed for endurance riders. While intermediate riders will thrive, beginners should have significant experience with long-distance mountain biking and be comfortable navigating varied, wild trail conditions.

How does the relay format work for teams?

Relay teams share the 50-mile adventure, allowing you to split the distance with a partner. Check the event website for the latest details on designated transition zones and exchange logistics.

What type of mountain bike is recommended for these trails?

A well-maintained cross-country or trail bike is perfect for this terrain. We recommend running a tubeless setup with aggressive tires to handle the loose, rocky sections you will encounter throughout the loops.

Where should spectators go to catch the best action?

The start at Granite Sports and the finish at Lost Cabin are the best spots to cheer on your riders. Please check the event website for the latest details on spectator access points along the course.

What should I bring for race-day nutrition and gear?

Given the 50-mile distance, self-sufficiency is key. Ensure you carry:

Ample hydration and electrolyte supplements
Reliable trail tools and a spare tube
High-energy nutrition to fuel your climb on the elevation-heavy sections

South Dakota Cycling Events

Events in South Dakota

Dakota Five-O

Buffalo 50