Today we head east to visit Badlands National Park, about 75 miles from Rapid City. It’s called “Badlands” because the Lakota people noted its extreme temperatures, lack of water, and rugged terrain. Highlight of the park is its 38-mile Scenic Byway, taking us past spectacular buttes, cliffs and multi-colored spires. On the way back to Rapid City, we visit Wall Drug, a 76,000-square foot collection of cowboy-themed stores drawing two million visitors each year. Hey, remember my pledge at the beginning of this trip, to keep my daily blog posts to less than 100 words? How am I doing?
We arrived in Badlands National Park around 830, and it was already 90 degrees. Even Walter Jr was feeling the heat.
Badlands.
Walter Jr got some “me” time with few distractions.
There were more cars than motorcycles, a rarity during bike week.
No pets. Says who?
The Badlands topography is otherworldly.
From Badlands, it was a short ride to Wall, home of world-famous Wall Drug.
No souvenirs for me, other than this selfie.
While in Wall, we visited Badlands Harley.
As at most Harley stores, there were t-shirts galore. Sadly, none in Walter Jr’s size. Harley Davidson has been described as a t-shirt company that sells motorcycles on the side.
Walter Jr kept shopping, and found a hat he liked.
No t-shirts for me, either. Not my jam.
From Wall, we rode 55 miles to Rapid City, where we visited Black Hills Harley. Walter was amazed by the thousands of bikes and acres of parking.
There’s something for everyone. This bike was for sale. Mark did not buy it.
The for-sale tent was gigantic. I didn’t spend any money …
… except on hydration. It was stifling hot. This $8 scoop of ice cream helped.
So did this strawberry-pineapple frozen drink, an hour later.
Walter takes a bison for a ride, outside the Dakotah Steakhouse, tonight’s dinner destination. Eat your hearts out Dave, Gail, Scott and Jackie! And Randy.
Once inside, Walter Jr cools down with an iced tea.
Eating healthy!
Me? Not so much. But the Prime Rib Dip is mighty tasty.
Riding With Gary 