The Deadwood 3-Wheeler Rally in South Dakota is more than just a gathering—it's an experience. With its blend of jaw-dropping scenery, Wild West charm, and rider camaraderie, this rally gives you the best of the Black Hills and a taste of the untamed spirit that built this town. Whether you're a first-timer rolling in on a Can-Am Spyder or a seasoned trike rider, Deadwood will leave its mark on you—and not just from the bug splatter.

As someone who transitioned from two wheels to three, I can tell you firsthand that events like these are the reason I ride more now than I ever did before. My knees are back in the wind, my stress melts away by the mile, and I no longer have to psych myself up to take a turn that looks like it was engineered by a roller coaster designer on Red Bull. So let’s get into the heart of what makes the Deadwood 3-Wheeler Rally worth the trip—routes, rest stops, and ridiculously good food.

Best Riding Routes Around Deadwood

Scenic Route: Needles Highway (SD 87)

If you’ve never ridden Needles Highway, buckle up—or rather, zip your jacket and prep your throttle hand. This 14-mile route through Custer State Park is a tight twist-fest carved through granite spires and forest groves. The turns are sharp, and the tunnels are narrow, so pay attention and take it easy—especially if your bike has a bit more junk in the trunk like my Spyder RT.

Recommendation: Ride Needles Highway in the morning, when traffic is lighter and the light filtering through the granite formations is almost spiritual. Pack a thermos, stop at the overlook, and take a moment to appreciate just how lucky we are to explore places like this on three wheels.

Adventurous Ride: Iron Mountain Road (US 16A)

This 17-mile stretch between Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore is like the Needles’ rebellious cousin. It’s famous for its pig-tail bridges, switchbacks, and tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore. This road doesn’t mess around. It’s a sensory thrill—up, down, left, right—all while surrounded by dense pine forest and Black Hills beauty.

Recommendation: Pair Iron Mountain Road with Needles Highway for a loop that punches well above its mileage in terms of scenery and thrill. Just be ready for tight turns and elevation changes. If your idea of fun is mentally high-fiving yourself for getting through a hairpin without squealing (out loud), this one’s for you.

Easy Glide: Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

Now, if you're more into taking it all in without working up a sweat, Spearfish Canyon is your best bet. It’s a 19-mile cruise between Spearfish and Savoy that feels like nature is just showing off—limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and a road that gently sways with the land.

Recommendation: Ride Spearfish Canyon mid-day, when the light hits the canyon walls just right and the shadows play tricks on your perception. There are pull-offs for photos, picnic spots, and even short hikes if you want to stretch your knees.

Lodging in Deadwood: Where to Hang Your Helmet

Downtown Convenience: First Gold Gaming Resort

Right in the thick of the action, First Gold Gaming Resort is a rally favorite. It’s also the host site for the Deadwood 3-Wheeler Rally, so you’ll be staying at ground zero for entertainment, vendors, and social gatherings. The resort offers easy trailer parking, an onsite restaurant, and shuttle service. Plus, you’re within walking (or wobbling) distance of Deadwood’s downtown.

Recommendation: Book early, especially if you want a room with a view or closer access to the rally events. This place fills up faster than your saddlebag on a road trip.

Cozy and Quiet: Hickok’s Hotel & Suites

If you’re into old-school charm with modern amenities, Hickok’s Hotel blends 1890s architecture with present-day comfort. It’s smaller, quieter, and located right on Historic Main Street. Bonus points for being in walking distance of great eats and bars but far enough from the noise to actually sleep.

Recommendation: Ask for a street-facing room, so you can people-watch from your window and still escape into your room when your social battery hits zero.

Budget-Friendly and Rider-Ready: Iron Horse Inn

Just a few miles outside of Deadwood, Iron Horse Inn in Whitewood is popular with riders for its affordability, friendly staff, and parking lot tailgate vibes. It’s a no-frills place with all the basics done right. Perfect for riders who spend more time twisting throttle than lounging in bathrobes.

Recommendation: Bring earplugs. The parking lot parties can go late—though if you’re anything like me, you’ll probably be out there joining in.

Best Local Eats to Refuel and Recharge

Historic Vibes and Big Flavor: Deadwood Social Club

Located above Saloon No. 10, Deadwood Social Club serves up bison ravioli, elk medallions, and hand-crafted cocktails in an old-west setting. The ambiance alone makes it worth the stop, but the food seals the deal.

Recommendation: Order the Bison Ravioli, then walk it off by strolling down Main Street. The place books up, so call ahead if you're heading in with a group.

Fast and Friendly: Pump House at Mind Blown Studio

If you want something quick and casual with a creative twist, Pump House at Mind Blown Studio delivers killer coffee, paninis, and desserts alongside live glass-blowing demos. It’s quirky, memorable, and an easy stop during a ride break.

Recommendation: Grab the Turkey Avocado Panini and watch the glass artists work while you recharge.

Why This Rally Should Be on Your Ride List

The Deadwood 3-Wheeler Rally stands out because of its focus on trike and reverse trike riders. Whether you're rolling in on a Can-Am Spyder, a Harley Tri Glide, or a Honda Goldwing trike, you’re among your people here. The camaraderie is unmatched, the setting is unbeatable, and the town of Deadwood fully embraces the event.

For me, riding into Deadwood with my husband and seeing dozens—no, hundreds—of other three-wheelers instantly reminded me that I wasn’t alone in making the shift to three wheels. I didn’t give up the ride. I just changed the angle.

The event schedule includes group rides, poker runs, vendor expos, and even trike games. But it’s the riding that really makes this rally shine. The Black Hills region was made for motorcycles—especially the stable, comfortable kind that let you take in the views without white-knuckling every curve.

And if you’re like me—a woman who traded in her cruiser and ADV bike for a Spyder RT because the hills were starting to feel like a gamble—this rally reminds you that going to three wheels isn’t a downgrade. It’s just an evolution. And maybe, just maybe, it’s the reason you ride more now than you ever did before.