Black Hills Mountain Festival takes place this weekend
RAPID CITY, S.D. — Combine trail running, rock climbing, sand volleyball, mountain biking, live music, good food, brews and friends, toss in an appearance by one of the country’s foremost experts in backpacking, and you’ve got a recipe for a great weekend of fun at the Black Hills Mountain Fest.
The Rapid City Parks and Recreation Department will host the annual Black Hills Mountain Fest June 21-23 in Rapid City. Proceeds from the festival will help fund outdoor education, trail maintenance, and other outdoor experiences for citizens.
“The Black Hills Mountain Fest emphasizes outdoor recreational opportunities within our region and promotes the awesome ways people can enjoy our beautiful Black Hills,” said Kristy Lintz, city recreation specialist. “It’s a great way to network with other outdoor enthusiasts, businesses, and member organization within the outdoor recreation industry.”
The three-day event will include single track races, rock climbing, hiking, trail running, concerts, outdoor education seminars, vendors, free concerts, craft beers and food. The event starts with Friday’s Welcome Social from 5-8:30 p.m. at the Allied Arts “Make Music Black Hills” event at Main Street Square. Back Packer Magazine’s ‘Get Out More Tour’ Ambassador Randy Propster will be there for a meet-n-greet. Competitors’ packet pick-up and race registration will be from 6-8 p.m..
Saturday’s events will be held at Founders Park. Races begin Saturday morning with the Black Hills Trail Series Run. The 5K and 10K race will start at 9 a.m. The Mountain Bike Race, a 3-mile loop event, begins at 6 p.m. Preregistration is preferred for these events but day-of/on-site registration will be available. All races will take place on the hills of Hanson-Larson Memorial Park with the start and finish in Founders Park.
Saturday’s events will also feature a special backpacking presentation by Propster at 3 p.m. Saturday will include live music, beer garden, outdoor activity clinics, award ceremonies and a group night ride all located at Founders Park 1510 W Omaha. The event concludes Sunday with a group mountain bike ride and hike.
For more information, visit www.bhmtfest.com or call Rapid City Parks and Recreation at 394-4168.
