Jesse James and the David - What More Could You Want?!

A short drive brings us to Devil's Gulch, a gorgeous walking trail with the history of Jesse James included. Apparently, the notorious outlaw, while trying to outrun a posse, jumped the gulch with his horse to escape. An impressive feat, to say the least!

















The hike is a lot of fun and provides numerous terrains within the 3/4 mile jaunt. Cliffs, meadows, and yes, even a waterfall, are hidden gems found in addition to the gulch. It's quite a place.










































A quick drive through the little town of Garretson boasts a single Main Street of stores, bars, and restaurants, although we see no actual people. 5 o'clock somewhere isn't going to be here. Split Rock River Park, advertising a Jesse James Pontoon ride, is just as abandoned but the view of the dam is very pretty.







As we make our way back into Sioux Falls, we take a drive through the downtown area in search of their David, something we learned existed at last night's history lesson. No, it's not Florence, but fun just the same.




This precious little town indeed has it all!

Light Shows and Cliffs in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, South Dakota is a pretty place. We are quite surprised by what South Dakota is presenting. Though a bit tired, we decide to take in the lights and sound show at Falls Park, as weather is good tonight and is promising to not be so the next few days. It is worth the effort. The park is beautiful and watching families gather on the lawn for the evening is a very pleasing sight. Wells Fargo presents the history of this town with lasers and changing colors on the falls. Sitting out on the lawn and taking it all in for the hour and a half we're here is a lovely welcome to this true taste of Americana.


































We once again work our schedule around morning rain and, as the skies clear in the afternoon, we head out for some state park sightseeing. What rewards are in store for us here.

















A short drive to Garretson hosts Palisades State Park and packs quite a punch for such a small area. The cliffs are amazing and again we are so surprised by what we are finding in South Dakota. The perfect picnic spot is found before we explore several easy hikes leading us from one beautiful place to another.














We soak up the incredible scenery and spend several hours at this lovely park before heading on. Our afternoon plans are full as we try to squeeze in a day's worth of activity in just half the time. We're, of course, up for the challenge! Certainly enjoying the tour so far!

Mankato

We have a full day's travel ahead today as we leave this beautiful Wisconsin countryside and make our way to its neighbor, Minnesota. Our stop is Mankato, as it promises a pretty waterfall (one important option) and a great place for rest. The Hilton Garden Inn has a wonderful location on the Minnesota River in downtown and a great little restaurant. Our room is quite large and has incredibly comfortable beds - these are important points for full time travelers, needless to say.




As we settle in, we enjoy a great dinner at Olives, chef John Massad has great ideas that deliver beautifully. The Caprese Salad is better than any, including mine. All ingredients very fresh and the seasoning quite perfect. Celeste's BBQ ribs are fall off the bone scrumptious and my chicken and beef kabobs with couscous and hummus are amazing. The great service and delicious food is just what we need after a long day of driving.












Rain at the start of day does not detour as we use the time for much needed chores. Utilizing the great fitness facilities is yet another benefit of the inclement weather and just as neededl.



















A later venture along the river and into Old Town before returning to downtown showcases some interesting scenery.





Minneopa State Park is much prettier than we had imagined. The falls are quite impressive and a trail leading above, along and behind them is very nice. The park receptionist is more than helpful in suggesting another option as we head to South Dakota.





















Blue Mounds State Park is home to a buffalo range and and, of course, we are able to spot the grazing bison after a very short hike. Yes, those are buffalo in that meadow! A sunflower planting seems a very good idea here as it is a preview of the great west we're about to explore!




Note to Minnesota - we really didn't allow much time or activity in your little state so we apologize. We're just really excited to get out west!

Hiking the Peninsula

A good night's sleep leaves us well rested and ready to venture out for some great hiking this morning. Neighboring Peninsula State Park provides the perfect venue for such wishes.

Our first trail is the Sentinel, a nice 2 mile easy trek, great for warming up. One of the first interpretative markings presents the Baseball Tree White Ash - particularly fitting as my beautiful daughter, Ashley, has just accepted a wonderful position with the Washington Nationals. This pic is for you, Ash. And, congratulations! The nearby Eagle Path promises a difficult terrain, another 2 miler, and oh, some amazing scenery is the reward. Huge rock formations to one side and the bay to the other, gorgeous trees, wildflowers, and birds accompany this journey. Eagle Trail is one of our favorites to date!

































We manage to finish our hikes just before the raindrops begin and still are determined to have our picnic. The perfect spot is discovered and we enjoy immensely (that's why we have umbrellas)!









One more short trail in the rain presents great gifts for our efforts. A lone deer watches us intently from a rather close distance, as a large Pileated woodpecker proves undaunted by our presence as she destroys bark searching for her dinner. Of course, the camera is in the car because of the rain! You'll have to take our word on this - it was very cool!









As the rain increases, we take the opportunity to tour the lighthouse. A delightful tour and the perfect finale to our magnificent day in the park. Peninsula is a true gem. And, we are more than pleased with our visit. Indeed, a great adventure!

The Crossing

We have one more family visit in Michigan before we head across Lake Michigan to Wisconsin. Celeste's oldest sister, Kathy, and daughter, Angela are a welcome find after a 3-hour rainy trip northwest to Morley. They greet with a great med dinner of lamb and veggie kabobs, couscous and corn. Wine, catching up stores, and laughter make up the perfect evening. Angela is planning her Disney wedding and it sounds perfect!


The brief visit is full and a morning ferry time from Ludington has us on the road very early. Crossing the lake on the SS Badger takes four hours, but this is nothing compared to what a land traverse would have cost in time, so we don't complain. It is a beautiful sunny day although a bit brisk. We land in Wisconsin just in time for lunch overlooking the path we've just taken and then begin our trek up to Door County.















The scenery in this region is gorgeous and the drive along the peninsula is a real treat. We find our home in Fish Creek this afternoon.

After settling in from the long day's journey, we ready for one of the highlights of our Door County trip. A Fish Boil!! Within walking distance of our hotel we find Pellitier's serving up a special evening of white fish and the fixins. What fun is had here! Our chef is a master of this fine art, very personable and provides quite a show for us diners. The result after the great show is equally great food. We enjoy every morsel on the outside deck overlooking a beautiful rock formation. Just spectacular.

A further stroll lands us at Sunset Park for a beautiful end of day show overlooking Green Bay. We couldn't ask for a more perfect end to our introduction to Wisconsin.