[1] In addition to hiking, the trail is open to mountain biking and horseback riding in most areas.
[1][note 2] The trail opened in 1989 to celebrate South Dakota's 100th year of statehood.
[6] After crossing under Interstate 90 the trail enters the Fort Meade Recreation Area near Sturgis, where it remains for just 8.5 miles (13.7 km), and passes historic buildings and Fort Meade National Cemetery before entering Bear Butte State Park.
Common flowers include blackeyed susan, harebell, and wood lily.
[8] Common animals seen along the trail include American bison, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, white-tailed and mule deer, elk, bald eagles, rattlesnakes, and more.