Mount Rushmore National Monument, South Dakota

Well, the monument was impressive. 40 years ago, it was just a quick stop on a long trip to Banff. They have a nice job or sprucing up the place and visitor experience. Still real crowded, still people everywhere snapping pictures  with little reguard for those around them, but the sculpture overwhelmes all the chaos. It is a master work. Enjoyed learning how Borglund adjusted and moved things to get to the final product. Adjusting shoulders, turning Jefferson slightly, cutting a shadow line to give the impression that Roosvelt is whereing his famous glasses, fashioning the eyes so that they all look more life like, like they look at you. Just magnificient! Dedicated to a bunch my favorite Presidents.

  

Riding the George S. Mickelson Trail to Crazy Horse Viewpoint

We road the George S. Mickelson Trail from north from downtown Custer, SD. Had no clue about the trail until we meta buch of riders who said, "Yeah it is kind of up here, but once you get the the Crazy Horse Monument viewpoint it goes over and it is all downhill to the next town. Who knew we picked one of teh best parts of this hall of Fame Rail Trail.  We climbed about 100 feet over 5 miles (so not real steep, but workin' it) and there on te right was Crazy Horse. We road on a cloudy day with dak black skies behind the monument but a bunch of sun on the face of the monument. A stunning view of what is finished and easy to see how great it will be when finished.

Of, course the ride back down was a blast, narry a pedal stroke needed.

 

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Took the scenic byway off I-90 and cruised through the Badlands stopping at places we could walk around a bit. Glad it wasnot too hot and there was a breeze. You could almost feel the dryness sucking the moisture out of you as you walked around. Not sure what exactly would be the best way to explore this area more. Met some folks who were doing a "primitive" camping trip into the country who said the night skies were spectacular. 

Minuteman Missisle National Historic Site, Soth Dakota

We visted the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site near the Badlands in SD. It recalled the roll teh missiles and the crews played in te Cold War. It had lots of displays about the era of life inte late 1950's and early 60's, including this mock living room and Lazy-Boy recliner and black and white TV. As I sat in the recliner, I asked Marsha if she would like to see how a 1950's TV remote control worked. Of, course she bit and I said, "Honey, go over there and turn the dial to channel 4..."