VISTING MT. RUSHMORE/DON'T FORGET DEVIL'S TOWER

       It was the early 1980's, mid-September, perfect fall weather, a good time to take a short trip to one of America's favorite vacation destinations. South Dakota-Mount Rushmore, Black Hills, the Badlands, and of course, on the way Wall Drug.

      Not till later did I realize how pleasurable and to this day probably the most enjoyable short trip I've ever taken for all kinds of reasons. Who would ever guess it would have been South Dakota and a little beyond. The very first thing that got this trip off to a good start was the weather-ideal-sunny, temperatures in the 6's and 70's. There is nothing better than in the fall to feel that crisp, slight coolness in the air, but, with the warmth of the sun on your back.

     Traveling in the off season with kids still in school can be pure delight. Not that I don't like kids but just walking into a restaurant and sitting down to eat is a pleasure.. Driving across South Dakota can be boring at times, but, the Corn Palace, Wall Drug, and watching a huge thunderstorm forming in the distance can shorten the ride.


      All the attractions live up to the hype except for one. Stayed one night in Deadwood and thought that it wouldwould be a place to enjoy a great steak! After all we are in Cowboy land! Not so. Terrible steak! I guess only in Iowa can you get  good corn fed beef. I am a little biased!

       Now, on to the most unforgettable pleasant surprise of the rip. Almost a spiritual experience if you will. Not to far from Rapid City and west into Wyoming is Devil's Tower. Very difficult to describe is this huge rock, flat on the top. I am sure you remember it from the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." It is just something to behold and be seen!

      I hope to return this Spring, hopefully with my sister Doris. She has never seen Devil's Tower. I hope she enjoy's the experience only half as much as I will again!