South Dakota

We're back and in effect! It's been a bit difficult to find wifi and some time to put up posts but finally here we are.

Our first stop was at the Corn Palace, which was interesting. Each year since the 1800's the "palace" has different designs made entirely out of cornhusks created on its outside walls. Inside offers tourist gimmicks, and lots and lots of corn themed gifts.

Heading further west we stayed at the Badlands for two nights next to a ranch on the outskirts of the park.  The campground had a unhindered view of the rock formations and some bison who lived next door. The Badlands are a desolate desert territory two and a half hours east of Mt. Rushmore. The closest vegetarian restaurant was over 300 miles away! Once a shallow ocean the formations give way to yellows and reds as their different levels of rock are exposed. The scenic drives along the winding roads are unparalleled in their color and shapes. The first night we drove down to a trailhead as the moon was coming over the horizon with shooting stars overhead we attempted to take some pictures with my camera using the tripod.

The next morning we spent sealing up the tent so it could dry in the hot arid sun after we put some much needed sealant and waterproofing spray onto it. In the afternoon we headed into the heart of the Badlands to go on a 6.6 mile hike. This was not the best idea we have ever had as noon was fast approaching and the temperature was already 95 degrees. We made our way onto a trail with little shade, a never changing scenery of grass and rock,  "beware of rattlesnakes" signs and only two bottles of water. About an hour into the hike I already drank one 32 ounce water and wasn't feeling too great. The sun was a bit too hot and we weren't very prepared so we decided to play it safe and end the hike early. Grabbing some lunch and going into an air conditioned museum felt like an oasis.

On our way out to Wyoming we drove by Mt. Rushmore, and checked out Crazy Horse which (when completed) will be the worlds largest monument. To give you some perspective, the entire statue of Mt. Rushmore could fit in uncompleted left part of the head of Crazy Horse (see below). Crazy Horse was amazing, it's family run and built and refuses any funding from the government, which is refreshing.

Full set of South Dakota pictures here.