Stunning South Dakota!!

South Dakota...Badlands National Park and Custer State Park 

Mt. Rushmore and Wind Cave National Parks

July 12-17

South Dakota is such a unique state.  It seemed that we drove for hundreds and hundreds of miles with nothing but corn fields as far as the eye could see.  And then we arrived at Badlands National Park and it looked like maybe we had arrived on the moon.  So many interesting and varied rock formations...so stunningly beautiful and unique.  The boys loved climbing on all the rocks and discovering slot tunnels.  From there we headed west to Custer State Park and Sylvan Lake.  This was a great location to explore Mt. Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park

We saw lots of wildlife during this time.  The mountain goats at Mt. Rushmore!

Tons and tons of prairie dog towns...they were so fun to watch.

Prong horned antelope just grazing next to the road.

We had such an interesting tour at Wind Cave National Park.  The 6th longest cave system in the world...and they think only about 50% of the caves have been discovered.  We went on a ranger led tour through the most interesting rock formations.  It was discovered when two explorers felt wind coming out of this very small opening in the rock and wanted to explore more.  The wind sometimes rushes out of the hole at up to 80mph.  It was only small enough for a small person to climb in.

We also spent a wonderful evening at Mt. Rushmore.  I remember going there with my family when I was 10 years old...so it was fun to experience it again with my boys.  They have a touching "lighting" ceremony each night that was cool to see!  It is amazing how quickly they finished this project with such limited technology in the early 1900's.  They sculpted 90% of the faces with dynamite alone!!

We were super excited to see some Bison herds up close...and luckily not too personal!!

Heading down the 450 stairs into Wind Cave.  We rode the elevator up 20 stories after the tour...not for those who are claustrophobic!!

Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park was so AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL.  It was a last minute addition to our route after having it recommended by Curt's cousin in Michigan.  We are so glad we camped here.

Our trip would not be complete without a stop at Wall Drug!

A few cool shots from Badlands National Park!

It has been so strange for us to feel like we are back in the West. We love seeing the mountains and pine trees again.  Tomorrow we have an extra long drive across Wyoming to Grand Teton National Park.  Curt is most excited about eating at his favorite restaurant in Jackson, Mile Hile Pizza Pie.  Then it is on to Yellowstone to meet up with our good friends the Tuckers.  HOORAY!!