May 15 – Delayed

This was another adventurous day. We left the Badlands and headed for the hills. Since we couldn’t check in until 4 we decided to go to Custer State park. They have an animal loop with bison, other native animals and donkeys. Good enough to go back to. We enjoyed seeing a car surrounded by bison. They were licking the car and blocking the road. Lots of little bison. Then we went to the Needles highway. OMG, I drove that road. It rises over 3000 feet in elevation and is nothing but w and s curves , one car tunnels and no guard rails. We laughed when we got to one of the highest over looks. All the vehicles had woman drives. I think the only way you can do that ride with your husband is if you drive. Not ashamed to say I did 5 mile an hour stretches. One of the over looks had boulders on the side. People feed the chipmunks there so often they will sit on you hand and each their treats.

After finally reaching Rapid City we went out in search of fine dining. All of the places listed as fine dining on the net were closed on Monday. Frustrated we walked the street and found Murphy’s bar and grill. It was awesome. We had a redneck sausage sampler, which was three 8″ sausages on a stick. So much we haven’t finished it yet. Also an Ace pineapple beer. Leighton and I both thought it was great. We were so happy to be eating a great meal we must have been a bit enthusiastic. The waiter said you know we really like happy people here. You guys are having so much fun we would like to extend a special invitation to you. They have an invitation only speakeasy in the basement on Friday and Saturday nights. Special drinks and menu. You have to text for a reservation. They reply with a phrase you have to say at the door in order to get in. We might just have to go. Oh yeah, I almost forgot to mention Sylvan Lake. There you are driving along Needles and you drive up to the most beautiful lake in the world. Pictures cannot do it justice. The end of the lake is formed by giant boulder. It was truly stunning.

All alone

Bison by the dozens

Bison carwash

The view from Needles highway

Black Hills Rocks – notice the climber on one of the peaks

Needles Eye Tunnel

Proceeding through the tunnel

Sylvan Lake