Thursday, July 5 – We drove the Needles Highway this morning to enjoy the wonderful mountain vistas.
We no more pulled into Custer State Park and there was a Bison enjoying his breakfast. He was huge and right in one of the campgrounds. Crazy fella.
Not too far down the road we enjoyed watching a couple of deer for quite awhile. I think they were watching us pretty closely too!
We drove for miles on the scenic roadways which include the spectacular Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road, and Peter Norbeck Scenic Highway.
What a beautiful drive among the towering pines that shelter the roadway and provide hidden space for the animals. When you stop and sit it is absolute quite. Not a sound but an occasional bird or breeze blowing a nearby tree. How calming.
The interesting mountains and rock formations climb out of the forest and tease you to find a face or other shape in their unusual crack or peaks.
If you are claustrophobic, don't do this drive. The tunnels are tight.
There are always the peeks of Mount Rushmore between several trees, over the ridge or through one of the tiny tunnels. It looks so much larger looming over the forest than when at the visitor's center.
The tunnel views are so amazing! At one spot, the trees were actually trimmed to provide a breath-taking view of the Presidents. WOW!
The famous double tunnel. Can you see the reward at the end of the second tunnel?
See it yet?
How about now?
We stopped briefly at Sylvan Lake to enjoy the view and entice us to return tomorrow for some hiking around this enchanting lake. There are several trails to enjoy, just in the lake area. We've selected three for our hiking.
We walked the streets of the historical and touristy town of Keystone.
There were thousands of people enjoying the sites of this tiny (population about 350) historical town. A gold mining boom town of the old west not only has a museum, was the home of Carrie Ingalls Swanzey of Little House on the Prairie fame, and 100's to tourist shops.
We especially enjoyed walking through the carver's yard to view some amazing works of art. There's even one for you Harley riders (gotta see this Duane).
This piece cost $4100.00
Arriving back at Custer, we spotted the “Custer sign” in the mountain towering over the town. We have to get back here after dark to see if it's lighted. As a matter of fact, that's our next adventure – Mount Rushmore at night!
Every night since we arrived, we have been treated to a gorgeous sunset. Last night was no exception.
Thanks for stopping by. Hope to see y'all back real soon. Have a great day!
