About Benchmark Trails LLC - South Dakota

Benchmark Trails LLC is a South Dakota-based company specializing in the design, construction, and maintenance of sustainable, natural-surface trail systems. Founded in 2022 by Uriah Steber, Benchmark Trails is driven by a commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and creating high-quality rider experiences.

Recognized by IMBA and trusted by government agencies, private developers, and non-profits, Benchmark Trails delivers exceptional work on projects of all scales—from community paths and bike parks to lift-access downhill networks. The company prioritizes sustainability, minimizes environmental impact through modern construction practices, and ensures long-term durability with meticulous design and ongoing maintenance support.

Mission

Benchmark Trails strives to design and build trails that inspire adventure, foster community, and harmonize with the natural environment. By adopting sustainable practices and fostering collaboration, the company aims to elevate the trail-building profession and create spaces that connect people with the outdoors.

Core Services

• Trail Planning & Design: Comprehensive layout and design tailored to each site’s terrain and user needs.
• Construction & Maintenance: Expertise in building long-lasting trails, including singletrack, bike-optimized, and multi-use trails.
• Specialized Features: Construction of berms, rollers, jumps, wooden and steel prefab features, and sustainable drainage solutions.
• Consultation: Strategic collaboration with clients and communities to align trail systems with long-term goals.
• Master Planning Support: Facilitation and consultation for city or regional trail network vision plans to enhance connectivity and recreational infrastructure.

Key Projects

Great Bear Trail Build
Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
A multi-phase trail development project at Great Bear Ski Valley, designed to establish one of eastern South Dakota’s premier mountain biking destinations. Benchmark Trails collaborated with IMBA Trail Solutions and Falls Area Singletrack (FAST) to construct new singletrack, progressive flow trails, and family-friendly riding options across the ski area’s terrain. With almost 200 feet of natural elevation and a vision for long-term expansion, the project lays the groundwork for future development while providing immediate, high-quality riding opportunities for the local community.

West Shore MTB Trails

Location: Fort Pierre, South Dakota
This 5-mile, hand-built trail network on USACOE-managed land provides recreational opportunities while preserving the natural landscape. Tailored to beginner and experienced cyclists alike, it has become a vital part of the local outdoor community, with a planned expansion underway.

Bear Butte Trail Rehabilitation

Location: Sturgis, South Dakota
This project involved constructing granite and treated timber staircases to rehabilitate a sacred trail leading to Bear Butte’s summit. Using non-motorized tools to honor treaty-protected conditions, Benchmark Trails balanced environmental stewardship with functional improvements.

Thunderdog Flow Trail

Location: Rapid City, South Dakota
Rapid City’s first flow trail designed for progression and accessibility, featuring berms, rollers, and jumps. Since completion, the trail has required minimal maintenance, exemplifying Benchmark Trails' expertise in durable, sustainable trail construction.

Deer Mountain Village Trails

Location: Lead, South Dakota
South Dakota’s first lift-access downhill bike trail network, designed to introduce riders to the downhill biking experience. The 4-mile beginner-friendly system incorporates crushed limestone surfacing for low maintenance and predictable riding conditions. Collaboration with TerraFlow Trails ensured a high-quality, user-focused outcome.

Remembering the Children Memorial Trail

Location: Rapid City, South Dakota
A culturally significant 4,200-foot crushed limestone memorial path honoring Native American children who attended the Rapid City Indian Boarding School. Built under archaeologist supervision, the trail integrates reflective sculptures by Dale Lamphere, balancing cultural sensitivity with functionality.

Spearfish Master Trails Vision Plan

Location: Spearfish, South Dakota
Facilitated collaboration between SRAM, RockSolid Trail Contracting, and the Spearfish Trails Coalition to develop a comprehensive trail network vision. This plan focuses on enhancing connectivity, sustainability, and recreational growth for the community.

Chamberlain-Oacoma Consulting, Planning & Design

Location: Chamberlain, South Dakota
Led the planning and design for the River to School Trail project, a rideable, accessible, and dynamic route connecting schools atop the bluffs to the city below. Supported the formation of the Chamberlain Oacoma Trails Coalition and helped secure funding for phased development.

Professional Collaborations

Benchmark Trails has partnered with industry leaders, including TerraFlow Trails, RockSolid Trail Contracting, and Scull Construction, to deliver innovative, high-quality trail systems. Notably, Pete Costain, founder of TerraFlow and Legacy Bike Park, has agreed to sponsor Benchmark Trails’ application for PTBA membership, reflecting the company’s alignment with PTBA’s values and standards.

Commitment to Excellence

Benchmark Trails prides itself on professionalism, attention to detail, and a commitment to sustainable practices. Founder Uriah Steber continually seeks to improve and adopt cutting-edge methods, ensuring Benchmark Trails remains at the forefront of the trail-building industry. By combining technical expertise with a passion for the outdoors, Benchmark Trails delivers projects that set the benchmark for quality and craftsmanship.