Ahhh.....Despite Rain

Before completely exiting these magnificent Black Hills and Custer, we make one final stop at Sylvan Lake. The rain which has managed to stay at bay for most of the day comes in fully now at this late afternoon hour. Again, we will not be stopped!









Umbrellas have been made for a reason.









If anything, the beauty of this lake seems only to be more beautiful with the fog rolling in and the overcast skies. We can't imagine it could be better.




An apparent stroll around the lake turns into a more adventurous hike, but, as usual, the rewards then become even greater.






It is the perfect finale to our incredible excursion.



A day in the Black Hills to be remembered for a good, long while!!

Wild Wild Life

Custer continues to provide a plethora of wildlife.









Birds singing, prairie dogs popping, burros welcoming guests, and a momma badger protecting her babies are only a few of the wealth of animal encounters. This is a truly special place.





























































After our incredible wildlife tour here, we continue onto the Needles drive out of the park heading back to our Keystone home.

Just when we thought it couldn't get any prettier....



The twists, turns, tunnels and vistas are awe inspiring and taking it all in is almost exhausting. We had heard how beautiful this area was, but, OMG, we really had no idea!!


The Cathedral Spikes soar and the Needle's Eye is beyond scope in imagining its creation. The gifts we encounter today are stupendous and we are beyond grateful.


We are so fortunate to be able to experience such beauty and are definitely not taking one single moment for granted. Again, South Dakota delivers quite a punch!!!

Where the Buffalo Roam....

Iron Mountain is the route to Custer State Park which houses large herds of free roaming buffalo. The rangers are doubtful they will be visible today but we, of course, are confident they will be found. And, wow, what a show we discover!



























































And then, the deer and the antelope play, as well! Welcome to the Black Hills of South Dakota!!

The Rush

Rain is fairly prevalent today as we travel from Sioux Falls to Keystone. Nothing serious just a steady stream to remind we are now getting into summer weather mode. It does not detour our appreciation of the sights this state continues to bring and we are especially impressed with the rest/traveler's information stops along the route. South Dakota wins hands down so far for the state with the most impressive.

A particular standout today is the Lewis and Clark visitor's center that captures our attention with a huge outside exhibit overlooking the river, warning signs of poisonous snakes included. An equally stocked array of information is found indoors. The mist clears just long enough for us to enjoy a quick picnic amidst this beauty. And, armed with sufficient tourist brochures, we continue on our journey west.













Keystone is an adorable little western town two miles from Mount Rushmore. Our home for the evening at the K Bar S Lodge boasts a view of the magnificent sculpture from our balcony. Alas, the fog does not allow a glimpse this evening but we still enjoy the vista. Poured wine and a moment to savor our surrounds is our only immediate agenda and we relish it completely. We equally enjoy the innovative choice of rain gear of one of our fellow residents. One learns to work with what they have!



The morning weather is no better but not daunting. The drive to Rushmore is easy and although our initial entrance has the faces covered in fog, within moments this clears and the full beauty of the monument exposed. It is all that has been promised. And, we are thrilled!


Our path from this famous landmark takes us through the beautiful Black Hills along Iron Mountain and we are often blessed with still more views of the presidential wonder encased in some absolutely gorgeous scenery. Rain subsides when needed and we are able to enjoy the most spectacular morning adventure through this breathtaking area!