Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Rafter J Bar Campground: June 28, 2011

Woke up early this morning, Art's still on EST time for some reason.  The girls were not happy that we dragged them out of bed at 6:30, but we wanted an early start.  We arrived at Mt. Rushmore at about 8:45 am.  It was good timing, the crowds started rolling in shortly after.  It was very cool.  There is a pretty neat walkway that winds through the woods directly in front of Mt. Rushmore that we followed.  It had great information all along the trail that educated us on the history of the 4 presidents and the sculptor behind the monument. 
After Mt. Rushmore we drove through Iron Mountain and the Needles Highway.  Saw some beautiful views.  Climbed to almost 6,000 ft.  The landscape is truly beautiful around here.  I can't even explain how breathtaking the mountains are.  There were a number of place along this narrow winding road that you can just pull off and hike, have a picnic or just take in the sites.  I can't believe how many motorcycles I have seen.  Obviously this is the place to ride.  Along our journey today we saw Buffalo walking down the road and lounging in the fields.  We also saw tons of prarie dogs, they are adorable. 
Next was lunch at the Dark Horse.  I tried buffalo burger at this place because I had read it's higher in protein than chicken or steak, so I had to try it.  I wasn't thrilled in the least.  Probably the last time I have it, at least around here.  I have to say the food around here has not been all that wonderful.  But I can't say I wasn't worned.  I haven't found a good salad anywhere that I have been so far.  I finally went to a grocery store and bought the fixings to make one myself.  Ok, no big deal.  Now we are off to Wind Caves National Park.  Amazing scenery!  We took a 90 minute tour into the wind caves which was pretty cool.  The girls thought it was pretty neat as well.  Word has it Jewel Caves are even more amazing, we will try and hit them tomorrow.

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