The Black Hills were at their glorious best when we and friends Gary and Rosie camped for a week there in September.
Not so crowded as during the heights of the tourist season in July and August there was plenty of space to tour and hike the countryside. A week is hardly adequate to enjoy everything but we made a good effort.
There are many scenic "byways" but the Needles Highway is one of the best. Winding through a beautiful forest and narrow tunnels cut into magnificent rocky outcroppings, the narrow road is really for tourists only driving at a slow pace. Come on along....
The hiking views were also spectacular as we followed The French Creek Trail beneath some red bluffs.
Having had a couple of spills this summer Troutbirder chose to slide down any rocky inclines on his butt!
The trail along Bismarck lake revealed a mirrored view. A little tired after all the activity, the Troutbirders sat down to rest up a bit.
Well, sorta...
Well, sorta...
Ha--looks like you two lovebirds were "busted"!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great place. The Black Hills are beautiful , and you're fortunate to have wonderful friends to share in the adventure!
so cute! such a pretty area. it has been over 30 yrs since i went thru there.
ReplyDeleteAww ain't love grand !
ReplyDeleteGorgeous place , really so spectacular.
I went to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore back in 1992. We mostly did all the tourist things, but the sight-seeing was the best part. Looks like you had a splendid time!
ReplyDeleteI just breezed through the Black hills as I didn't have much time. I realize there's lots to see and do there. You've given a great description and the photos add to your post.
ReplyDeleteLove that mirrored view along the lake.
ReplyDeleteRest up, my eye! LOL! That looks like anything but resting!
Oh that tunnel looks a bit snug for my liking! I think sliding down rocky inclines is just right....and your idea of "resting" isn't too bad either ;)
ReplyDeleteHaHa! Smoochin' in the shade - love it! Beautiful reflection photo too!
ReplyDeleteI am sure all that smooching was Mrs. T's idea. I like the way you avoid falling, I have been known to do that to, you cannot fall far if you are on the ground. Did you watch all the Prairie Dogs along that Needles Road...or maybe they have been moved along.
ReplyDeleteGreat trip! We should go someplace, but we keep having appointments, this week we are dog sitters and have dental appointments..oh well it is cold and rainy anyway:(
I love the "Hills" My all time favorite place to visit. I haven't been since 2001 and it way past time for me to get there. I love the way you "rest" ♥
ReplyDeleteAnother fun trip report, and with a cute and romantic ending!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous area. Loved the last sweet photograph. That's what keeps you young.
ReplyDeleteThat area is definitely in my bucket list and I am with you on going to tourist attractions off season.
ReplyDeleteWhat a neat last photo. A real awwwww.
Best rest possible, smile. Thanks for sharing your travels. This is one area I have always wanted to visit.
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ReplyDeleteAnd: why did they call that State park Custer park, and not Sitting Bull park?
ReplyDeletePS, in typical internet fashion, the school sign at the top of this piece set me off on a search for the name Walsh. We visited Fort Walsh in Saskatchewan's fascinating Cypress Hills. You might enjoy this. http://www.virtualsk.com/current_issue/fort_walsh.html
ReplyDeleteI remember the Needles highway when I was there with my family. Those towering rocks are still there.
ReplyDeleteI remember the Needles highway when I was there with my family. Those towering rocks are still there.
ReplyDeleteI approve of your method for going down steep rocky inclines. There have been times when I wish I had done it that way. Thanks for the memories of the Needles Highway.
ReplyDeleteIt's so pretty. I love traveling the northern part of our beautiful country through your posts and pictures.
ReplyDeleteI often slide down on my behind while hiking!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fantastically beautiful place! I guess romantic also -- barbara
ReplyDeleteSo glad you saved your backside for sitting and smooching with your sweetheart. What a fabulously beautiful area. No wonder you two were so inspired! Maybe SAM will take me there someday...(sigh)
ReplyDeleteThis truly seems like an amazing place. I love following your journey on here.
ReplyDeleteA very nice ending, I like the Needles area for climbing
ReplyDeleteThanks for the vicarious trip. I wish it had been for real. Our United States has so many lovely areas and no two seem to be alike.
ReplyDeletePS...your last picture portrays a nice way to end your trip.
I hope you sewed a leather seat patch on your pants or there goes a perfectly good pair of trousers!
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