Directions to ridecamp, vet checks and amenities
DIRECTIONS
Access to Ride camp is via Interstate 90, Exit 34. This exit is 2 miles east of Sturgis, South Dakota and 24 miles west of Rapid City, South Dakota.
After exiting Interstate 90 (Exit 34), travel east approximately 1/2 mile on a gravel road. The road is part of the 4.5 mile Fort Meade Backcountry Byway. There will be markings in place and the signs indicate you are entering the Fort Meade Recreation Area.
Volunteers will be available to direct you to parking areas appropriate for your rig.
VET CHECKS
There will be two vet checks:
Alkali Creek Horse Camp (Ride Camp) will be utilized for initial and final checks for both the 25s and 50s as well as the one hour hold for the 50s.
Bear Butte Trailhead will be utilized for the one outcheck each day (approximately 15 miles)
To access the Bear Butte Trailhead, there are two options:
#1 (fastest, less mileage) Continue traveling on the gravel Fort Meade
Backcountry Byway an additional 4 miles to Hwy 34/79 (this is also the location
of the Fort Meade Trailhead). Turn right (east) on the Highway and travel
2 miles to the intersection of Hwy 34/79. Turn left (north) on Highway 79
toward Bear Butte. The trailhead is an additional 3 miles with the turnoff on
your left. It will be marked and is also signed.
#2 Go back to Interstate 90 and travel west (right). Take Exit 32 (Sturgis).
Travel north on Junction Avenue through Sturgis. At the intersection of
Junction and Hwy 34/79 turn east (right) and drive 3 miles to the Junction of
34/79 and take 79 north to the trailhead.
AMENITIES:
Sturgis has two grocery stores, several convenience stores, restaurants, coffee shops, propane, fuel including diesel, tire repair, and limited tack is available. We will make arrangements for showers to be available at a campground near Ride camp.
Tours will be available for Fort Meade and the Fort Meade Museum. People knowledgeable of area history will be volunteers at the ride. The VFW Chapel will be open and is available by road or walking path.