Jul 02, 2014

Today we start with the thumbnail as we finish, with the Devils Tower, from the visitors carpark.

Yesterdays ride was basically up and down mountains and between canyons with steep roads and lots of switchback corners. Today's ride was equally enjoyable but entirely different with more gentle climbs and descents and lots of big sweeping corners.

 

A shot of Sylvan Lake before we left the Custer State Park.

 

From here we headed for Deadwood which doesnt look at all like the Deadwood I remember from the DVD series I saw.......probably just as well. It is a National Monument and reminded us of a huge version of Walhalla and was absolutely hopping. This is the Wild Bill Hickock Bar. He was killed in Deadwood.

 

From Deadwood we headed down the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway which was a beautiful ride with spectacular views and a number of waterfalls to view along the way, as well as a flwing stream beside the road which was a treat. This is a shot of the Roughlock Falls.

 

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From here we headed west and discovered fhe Vore Buffalo Jump near Beulah WY. This site (a sink hole) was unearthed in the 70's by the highway department when they were putting in the interstate. There is now an interpretive centre and an archeological site where the remains of buffalo which stampeded into the sink hole were butchered by indians are being progressively unearthed. I'll let the sign fill you in. As you can see the site is pretty primitive at this point.

Our last port of call was the Devils Tower which is the impressive remains of cooled magma.

 Bits and Bobs:

Custer - Easy to listen to Country music is broadcast in the main street. Liked it.

 

Some door handles on a shop in Deadwood.

 

Some stools you can sit on to have your photo taken where we had lunch in Deadwood. Tough choice between being a big a--e girl or a horses a--e. I passed up the opportunity.

Last night's Accommodation: 

Creekside Lodge, Custer State Park, US 16 Alternate, Custer, SD

Spacious room, comfortable bed, lovely sitting area and lots of spots to wander and chill. Guest laundry on site very handy. No restaurant on site but short walking distance to the main lodge for delicious dinner and breakfast. Included wifi and parking. Spoilt for choice of activities available if you want.