Last Updated April 2, 2024
In early Fall, the town of Spearfish, South Dakota is overtaken by the Dakota Five-O an adrenaline-pumping mountain bike race that promises 50 challenging miles of intense riding, enticing not only with its distance but also with its technical complexity. This is not a race for the faint of heart or the casual biker – it requires true grit, as the race encompasses about 90% singletrack, a daunting 6500+ ft of climbing, and treacherous technical sections. Riders enjoy the incredible single track, big crowds with many riders, and good event organization. The event is produced by Ridge Rider Racing and is considered by our team to be one of the Best Mountain Bike Events in the Midwest.
Event & Course Info
The Dakota Five-O is unique partly because of its “Lollie-pop loop” format, which commences with a mass rollout from Spearfish City Park. As bikers ascend Tinton Road, they merge onto the snaking, sleek Tinton Trail single-track. But the real twist? The course’s direction reverses every year. In even years, riders experience the course clockwise; in odd years, it’s the opposite. This rotation ensures the route always feels fresh, throwing new challenges at returning riders.
For those taking on the even years, the track dives into the gully known as Twin Bridges after the initial climb. This leads riders to the first aid station at Big Hill Trailhead (mile 11). A mix of single and double tracks takes bikers through the Big Hill Trail system, with the potential added adventure of a bovine encounter. The route winds through Cardiac Bypass, Recovery Ridge, and the Old Baldy trail system. Riders must also tackle Taco Alley, Sheep Steeps, and Dakota Ridge. A high point (literally!) for many is the Bacon Station at mile 38, where riders can indulge in a well-earned bacon snack and a PBR. The route concludes with returning to Spearfish City Park, where festivities await.
On the other hand, the odd-year course introduces bikers to the rapid K-Nectar trail, followed by the steep Dakota Ridge. After the challenge of Stadium Ridge, riders cruise through Old Baldy, Recovery Ridge, and then the Big Hill Trail system. The familiar Bacon Station greets racers at mile 37, while other aid stations are located as follows: Big Hill (mile 10 or 37, depending on the year), Old Baldy (mile 24 or 27), Higgins Gulch (mile 35 or 15), and Iron Creek Drainage (mile 35 in odd years). There is a race cutoff at Old Baldy (1:30 pm during even years) and a 2:00 pm cut-off for odd years. Regardless of the year, every finisher is welcomed back to Spearfish City Park with music, food, and a refreshing cold brew. Cyclists can earn cash prizes for the top five men’s and women’s finishers, custom trophies and special prizes.
The Dakota Five-O is not just about the race. The weekend boasts a line-up of events, including a pre-party on Friday with live music, a Strider Bike race, and an industry expo. Saturday focuses on race packet pickups, and Sunday’s post-race celebrations begin at 11 am in Spearfish City Park. An awards ceremony at 4:30 pm recognizes outstanding performers. But the party doesn’t end there – an evening after-party at Killian’s Tavern offers racers and attendees a relaxed space to wind down.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Although there is no official hotel partner for the event, Spearfish has many hotel options to consider. For those who appreciate the simplicity of sleeping under the stars, the Spearfish City Campground is popular, as it is right next to the start/finish! You will also have plenty of vacation rentals to choose from if you prefer a more home-like experience while in town for Dakota Five-O, from impeccable tiny homes to farmhouse studios.
The culinary scene of Spearfish, South Dakota, marries traditional Midwestern flavors with a touch of modern flair, offering a mix of homey diners, eclectic eateries, and local breweries that reflect the town’s rich heritage and the natural beauty of the Black Hills. Favorite local hotspots include Barbacoa’s, Common Grounds, Good Earth Natural Foods, and Crow Peak Brewery.
Participants, friends, and family will also be happy with the outdoor activities available for the weekend while in town. You can explore the breathtaking Spearfish Canyon by hiking trails like the ‘Roughlock Falls Nature Area Trail’, which leads to the stunning Roughlock Falls. This trail offers a moderate hike, making it suitable for hikers of various skill levels, and is a perfect spot to witness the beauty of the Black Hills’ limestone cliffs and diverse plant life.
Outside Spearfish, the Devil’s Bathtub is a unique geological formation perfect for rock climbers. It offers a mix of climbs suitable for beginners and challenges for more advanced climbers. Beyond the climbing experience, visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the naturally carved “bathtub” pools or hike the surrounding trails, making it a multifaceted outdoor destination.
Finally, Recognized for its clear waters and abundant trout, Spearfish Creek provides an excellent setting for fly fishing. Stretching through Spearfish Canyon, the creek is home to brown, rainbow, and brook trout, offering novice and experienced anglers a memorable fishing experience amidst a picturesque backdrop.
Related Events
In addition to Dakota Five-O, Ridge Rider Racing also produces the Pine Island Gravel Odyssey one of the Best Gravel Cycling Events in the Midwest. However, there are many other premier mountain biking events in the Midwest region including Chequamegon MTB Festival which is organized by Life Time Events and is part of the Life Time Grand Prix Series, as well as the Mohican MTB 100 which is part of the NUE Series.
For multi-sport endurance athletes looking for other events in the state of South Dakota and broader Midwest region, be sure to check out our full list of Strambecco Best in Class road, gravel and trail running events.
