Got up early this morning to head for our primary day’s event, Badlands National Park.
Downloaded the Badlands National Park audio tour, which started in Wall. This was awesome! As we neared different points in the park, the narrator would give information and tell stories about the area that we were in. Fabulous !
As we approached the gate to the park, we were greeted by non other, than a large bison. Took a detour, and so glad we did. Saw some great views, but also the prairie delighted us with sightings of groups of bison, prong horned antelope, a coyote, lots of prairie dogs, and later some long horned sheep! Amazing!
Made our way through the the various overlooks and short hikes including Hay Butte, Panorama Point, Pinnacles, Yellow mound,Prairie Wind, Robert’s Prairie Dog Town, Fossil, Door and Window, all spectacular in their own way.
The Badlands goes from spectacular rock formations, to beautiful prairies with its lovely animal population, to the geographical formations in between. At one time this area was an underwater sea!
The history of this place is not for the faint of heart. Much land was stolen form the native Americans who lived here, and given to homesteaders. Not many of them survived these harsh conditions either.
Upon leaving the park, happened upon an historic Prairie Sod house. Interesting place that also included a settlement of white prairie dogs!
Left there and got back to the hotel for a little rest before off for the short walk through Wall. Got to Dahl’s chainsaw art, with its enormous jackalope structure which you can walk through. Truly an unique experience.
On to a quick stop at Wall drug, and cocktail(s) at the Badlands Saloon , following by dinner at the Salty Steer.
Back to pack, and bed. Tomorrow brings the trip to the Custer area with Iron Mountain, Mount Rushmore, and the Pinnacles Road.