South Dakota 2022 - Day #5
Thursday, October 13, 2022
Day #5 started with a ride down Highway 16A with a stop at the Norbeck Overlook with a view of Mt. Rushmore in the distance.
A typical view of the black hills. Always special!
Just can’t get enough of these views.
This is the view from the top of the Lovers Leap hiking trail. This is a 4.2-mile loop trail. We went left at the decision point - taking a clockwise course around the loop. This decision led to a very steep climb to the top of the hill and then a gradual descent on the other side. Given the choice, I would probably go in the counter-clockwise direction if given the choice again.
The trees show signs of the fire that went through this area.
Many of the hiking trails around Custer State Park have these metal medallions. They are meant to be copied by placing a piece of paper over it and making a rubbing image with a pencil. If you collect a certain number of them you can obtain a token/badge from the park rangers.
Another view from the top of Lovers Leap Trail.
Can really appreciate the fire damage here.
This sign along the trail speaks the truth.
Continuing along the trail, as you come down from the top of the hill, the terrain begins to change and the rock formations return.
The trail is flatter and much easier here.
The rock formations along the trail are always awe inspiring.
After finishing the Lovers Leap hike we continued along the wildlife loop to visit the bison one last time for this trip.
This pronghorn was relaxing in the afternoon sun.
These bighorn sheep were grazing on Highway 87 just outside the Custer State Park wildlife loop entrance.
Finishing the day at the Heddy Draw Overlook has become somewhat of a tradition as we end our time in South Dakota for another year.
