Moved directly out of Buffalo this morning and went directly to Devil’s Tower National Monument. Many of you may recognize Devil’s Mountain from its key role in the movie ‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind’. As you approach and first spot Devil’s Tower from a considerable distance. It is the most conspicuous landmark in the area by far.
I take the scenic 1-1/2-mile hike around the mountain and take shots of all sides. Interesting to note that nearly every shot I provide below has climbers included, usually a minimum of 3 to 4. Hard to see in these photos but trust me they are there.
The NPS considers hiking and climbing an appropriate use of the park. Also, the mountain has spiritual meaning to the area’s native Americans, and you will note below that there were a number of Spirit Offerings around the base of the mountain.
Spirit Offerings
Entered South Dakota today making this my 20th state visited on this trip, and number 44 lifetime.
Moved into Deadwood SD to camp for two nights and to visit Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. I got an early start the next morning and after a quick $5 all you can eat breakfast at one of the casinos in downtown Deadwood I head south towards the park.
Apparently, they have made some significant changes to the entrance to the National Park over the last several years, including parking structures, a new gateway entrance, a plaza dedicated to the artist and a parade of state and territory flags of the USA. All of this frames the monument nicely and it was really an eyeful as you walk into the park.
I took the half mile sidewalk hike around the park including a visit to the Lakota Indian Village and close ups of the fellas. This is as close as you can get as the rest of the area is closed off.
After leaving the park, I move further south through the Black Hills, and get one more view of the Monument from a considerable distance (about 10 miles). I take the long way home and stop at several scenic viewpoints, lunch and the homecoming parade in beautiful downtown Custer, SD.
Mount Rushmore view as you enter the park
Close up of George
Close up of all the fellas
Lakota Village
Wooden Pigtail Bridge
Mount Rushmore from a distance