It feels good to be back here in the Black Hills of South Dakota. This time not having to worry about a tire exploding or something like that. This time I can leave base camp and head up into the hills and actually get out to see them. One downside of towing the trailer along is some places get a little too difficult to get into. Or the roads are far too narrow for it. Having the trailer parked down at the Black Hills KOA is convenient. Not too far from the hills and now I have power and water without having to get the generator out. Honestly, I really just wanted air conditioning. I’m inside the trailer with the a/c cranked and enjoying a Pile-O-Dirt Porter by Crow Peak Brewing.

This morning was a nice cool morning. Started the day out by heading up finishing the wildlife loop in Custer State Park. Which was pretty uneventful this morning. The evening before was quite opposite… saw a few bison on the loop. After finishing the loop it was time to head up on the Needles Highway. If you’ve never heard of this do take some time and look it up. It is one absolutely beautiful drive. I’ll be heading up there again this evening for the sunset. The road through needles is tight, winding, and dramatic. The road also has a few tunnels on it. Though if you’re like me and driving a lifted F350 those tunnels are just a little tight. I mean inches to spare with the mirrors folded in.

after the drive up and across needles I took the road out and into Deadwood. Not much to say about this since I didn’t stop to get out and look. Doing my best to avoid all group contact with people. That’s why it’s been a pleasure to have to the trailer. All I need to stop for is diesel and food to cook. Being able to keep to myself has been a large part of this journey.

In the morning I’ll be heading off to Badlands National Park. I also researched a place to catch the sunset from. Hoping that location works out well. Stay tuned to find out.