After our last trip west, Caroline and I decided to spend some time and explore the Black Hills.
Cheryl Dr, Mt Zion, ILLINOIS 62549 UNITED STATES
And...we're off. North on US51 and I-39 toward Wisconsin. One broken windshield later we overnight at the Hampton Inn in Tomah.
via detour
After a brief stop in La Crosse for a new windshield, we were back on the road west. Stopped to stretch our legs and visit the big green guy as we crossed southern Minnesota.
Something we missed last year, so I made it a point to get there early enough to take them in. The park is nice and clean plus the downtown area seems interesting. Experimented with the camera and enjoyed the park.
Our experience last year was pleasant, so I booked here again. Staff was friendly and helpful. After breakfast the next morning, we went back to the falls before leaving town.
Caps were off the towers but the place was still interesting. Wasn't quite sure what I was expecting, but it was a palace, of sorts...decorated with corn.
Brand new visitor's center, but we had to hustle for a ticket to tour the launch control facility. A lot of history, especially if you grew up during the cold war like I did. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Could only stay one night in Rapid City due to the state track meet. Comfort Inn at Elkvale Road was our choice again.
Wall, South Dakota, United States
Returned to the Badlands and actually saw quite a bit of wildlife - buffalo, pronghorn, and quite a few big horn sheep. Quick trip up to the drug store and then back toward Rapid City on the Rim Road. Spectacular despite the rain.
Wasn't sure I had made the right choice when we first arrived, but the staff were extremely helpful and friendly.
Next several days spent driving around the Black Hills. Wind Cave provided great vistas and lots of buffalo and pronghorn. Same for Custer State Park. Hours spent watching and searching for wildlife - darn that elusive elk.
339 W Mount Rushmore Rd, Custer, South Dakota, United States
After missing a turn or two, we finally found it. Twelve miles of gravel roads (one way), but I can now say I've been there. Not sure I will make an effort to return...but I've been there.
We were close and, oh well, seemed like the thing to do. Nice little attraction and once again, I can now say I've been there and done that. Check that off the list of oddities.
Site to see. Think about it, the pioneers used this as a landmark on the trails west.
A very, very, very dated Comfort Inn. Can't say I would recommend it.
Another landmark used by the pioneers. You have to go to the top and take in the view.
A little side trek to Court and Jail Rocks. There is a little dirt road that will get you close. Sort of eerie with a crop duster flying nearby at the time we were there.
Bridgeport, Nebraska, United States
A little side trek to Court and Jail Rocks. There is a little dirt road that will get you close. Sort of eerie with a crop duster flying nearby at the time we were there.
Caden might enjoy this! One of the workers in the gift shop also suggested a stop at Cody Park. There is a railway museum, steam (Challenger) and diesel locomotive displays you can climb in and out of.
Museum had closed before we got there. Looks neat and might be worth a stop if we ever come back this way.