Left the Badlands and the prairie this morning and headed to our next stop, the Iron Mountain Road Visitor Center. On the way, began to enter very different topography. Entering into the mountains, and lovely pine forest with many other trees. Very different from the treeless prairie of the past days.
Stopped at the visitor center, which was actually part of a resort complex. Got some great information from the owner, and off we went to the Needles Highway .
This road is part of a national scenic highway that includes the Iron Mountain Highway as well. Made our way up the road, although a little foggy, decided to stop at the Cathedral Spires trail that was recommended to us. Started on the trail, and each turn brought more magnificent views of the spectacular rock formations. Continued on the trail, and made our way up through and across some rocky parts made it almost to the end, but the rain had picked up, so decided to turn around, and of course, the rain stopped! Oh well, had a nice hike anyway.
Continued on the road passing through breathtaking views, through several tunnels, and out onto the road to Mount Rushmore.
After another pretty drive, parked and got to the memorial. Spectacular! After a quick lunch of buffalo chili and Rushmore beer, we were off to explore the site. Did the presidential trail, sculpture workshop which had a fabulous speaker on the history of the monument, saw a movie and took in the sights.
The weather had cleared and was sunny as we made our way through the Iron Mountain highway with its hairpin twist and turns, bridges, fantastic views, and tunnels, one of which exits to a view of Mount Rushmore!
Well, it’s been a long day of driving and site seeing, so off to the motel.
After a brief rest, went to Custer, which seems very interesting, unfortunately we have limited time here. We did manage to have a drink at the Gold Pan Saloon before heading for some delicious food at Begging Burro Mexican Bistro. Yummy!
But it’s off to bed, up at 5:30 for our Sunrise Safari in Custer Park at 7.