Fort Meade Backcountry Byway

Trail Overview

This scenic road is packed with historical significance. There are gorgeous hiking and biking trails as well as multiple equestrian areas as part of this road. You will be treated to the historic original Ft. Meade Cemetery where many of our original settlers and calvary are buried. You will not be disappointed with the variety of scenery and it is the perfect place to connect with the Centennial Trail and hike or bike.

Photos of Fort Meade Backcountry Byway

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Difficulty

This is a well-maintained gravel road with some washboards but usually 2 lanes for meeting oncoming traffic. In rain or snow, it could get pretty mucky.

History

The Fort Meade Recreation Area is composed of approximately 6,700 acres of forest and grasslands. The area is managed to protect, preserve, and enhance its cultural, historic, recreational, and wildlife values. Attractions include the Fort Meade Cavalry Post, Old Fort Meade Museum, Fort Meade Post Cemetery, and the Centennial Trail. The recreation area also adjoins the Black Hills National Cemetery and Bear Butte State Park. Camping is allowed at two locations, the Alkali Creek Trailhead and the Alkali Creek Horsecamp. Both are fee campgrounds. Picnicking facilities are located at the Alkali Creek Trailhead. Other Attractions: *Fort Meade Trailhead is a day-use graveled parking area that serves as a trailhead for the Centennial trail. *Fort Meade Reservoir (50 acres) contains two picnic tables, a restroom, and a reservoir stocked with rainbow trout. *Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Chapel: This day use site contains picnic facilities with water and restrooms. *Centennial Trail: This 11-mile trail is a portion of the 111-mile interagency national recreation trail across the Fort Meade Recreation Area. Operating hours/seasons: The Fort Meade Recreation Area is open for use year round, weather permitting. *The access road is open year round, with temporary closures possible due to weather and road conditions. There is no winter maintenance. *Alkali Creek Horsecamp is open from May 15 to September 30. Exception: The campground is closed 3 weeks during the Black Hills Motorcycle Classic. A camping fee is required. *Alkali Creek Trailhead is open year-round with fees charged for camping from May 15 to September 30.

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