April 27 - May 1
We had a lot of fun during our time at Hot Springs, SD. As was mentioned in previous post we rented a car for several days in order to get around easier and into those incredible tunnels ranging from 9 to 11 feet in height and 9 to maybe 10 feet wide. I think one was under 9 feet both ways! Or at least it sure felt like it going through. There was a large pickup that had to bring in its mirrors to fit. Here are the many wonderful sights we experienced while there.
Driving on the scenic road through Custer State Park you get your first view of Mt Rushmore. They named it right as what a rush you get when it comes into view. Awestruck is probably a good word, especially, when you stop and considered the how and when it was made. To carve those faces with so much detail into a mountain of rock is unimaginable but yet there it is larger than life. When we got to the park itself we spent some time just sitting in quiet contemplation.
Crazy Horse Memorial
Next stop was Crazy Horse Memorial, again awestruck. This incredible carving was begun in 1948 and is on going through today and indefinitely. Originally commissioned of Korczak Ziolkski by Henry Standing Bear, to honor and memorial the spirit of Crazy Horse. Not as an exact likeness but to capture his dedication to his people as a leader and warrior. When completed it will show Crazy Horse sitting aside his horse with his left arm outstretched and finger pointing, this represents his response to the question ask after the lands were confiscated by the White Man's Government: Where are your lands now? His response: “My Lands are where my dead lie buried.” Heartbreaking and tragic how Native Americans were and are treated.
I was impressed to learn this site is not federally funded as the people chose to control the management of the site. The funds are made up of donations and foundations set up to continue. The mission statement at the sight which also includes a museum and gift shop, reads: The mission of Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation is to protect and preserve the culture, tradition, and living heritage of all North American Indians. A truly worthwhile cause. Be sure to go there should you find in that area, as you too will be amazed, enthralled, overcome with emotion, truly Awestruck.
Two other quotes of inspiration to be found there:
“When you know who you are; when your mission is clear and you burn with the inner fire of unbreakable Will; no cold can touch your heart; no deluge can dampen your purpose. You know that you are alive.” Chief Seattle , Suquamish, Duwamish Chief
“Never Forget Your Dreams” Korczak Ziolkowski
First and foremost if you want to see buffalo the two best places to go is Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park, they have the largest herds in the US, what fun.
Wind Cave National Park is home of over 100 miles of passageways most of which have not been explored due to the size of access. The relatetively short area that can be access through a tour brings wonders to light. If you have gone on cave tours tho other locations a lot of what you would have seen are stalactites and stalagmates. Those long columns of minerals growing up or down as the waters drip as well as large cavernous areas that have you craning to see the ceilings. Not so at Wind Cave. What you will find here is a dark, mostly tight (be prepared for ducking) tunnelways but do look around as it is one of the few places in which to see Boxwork, Popcorn, and Frostwork formations. Be forewarned if you go: It is not a place for claustrophobics, Believe me!
Oh and at the Visitor's Center they
sell these cool masks!
You can check out some of our hiking views below.
Hot Springs, SD
Hot Springs, SD is a quaint old town
rich in history and great architecture. Enjoyed driving through there
on our way to Wind Cave National Park.
Next visit to that area we plan on spending more time there as we want to explore its many offerings. The Mammoth Site: An active paleontological dig with many mammoth remains including 3 woolly mammoths. Hot Springs boosts several museums, and, of course, several Hot Springs! And hey they have a Blue Buffalo!!
Ta
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