Still low clouds and drizzle this morning.....maybe a bit brighter? We headed out to see the Jewel Cave, which should be open today. Along the way, all of a sudden, the clouds lifted the sun came out and sky turned blue! Quickly took a picture. Its Beautiful. Around the corner we came to a pull off for a "silhouette view" of George on Mt Rushmore. Within minutes the clouds closed in and we never saw it again, all day! There would be times when we were driving through pea soup fog!
We arrived at Jewel Cave and, like Yellowstone, we were amazed how busy it was! Unfortunately, the tours we were all booked so we couldn't go into the cave. Nevertheless, there's a great visitor center and a very informative film about the cave, its discovery, and the ongoing exploration. This cave is believed to be the largest/longest cave in the world. (?)
We then headed to the famous "Wildlife Loop" in Custer State Park. The land opens up to beautiful vistas and, sure enough, here was the bison herd. The annual "round up" happens this weekend. The herd numbers 1000-1500 depending on the year. We stopped at the brand new Buffalo Center with interpretive displays about the round up. (You can find videos of the roundup on You Tube)
A little further on we came to the also "famous" burrow herd. They're basically tame, as people have been feeding them for years. The story is that back in the day there was a road up to a certain peak that burrows/mules would haul wagons of tourists. When their service was done, they we just let loose. Next time you plan to drive this road, bring a bag of carrots!
On the way out of the park, heading back to Rapid City, we spotted a group of mountain sheep.
Hotel in Rapid city, nice dinner at Mexican place next door.
Tomorrow we go to Wall and Badlands NP, then back through Rapid City to the Spearfish Scenic Byway. Hope for better weather!
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| George Washington? |
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