Day 5 The Badlands

We left this morning by crossing the Missouri River with a chill in the air and fog rolling in all around us. Riding out 90 West we stopped just outside of Pierre, SD. (state capital). We meet Gary Miller a local rancher who owned 13,000 acres, 700 cattle. He and two other individuals with one dog worked the land. After our conversation with Gary we headed to The Badlands loop (240 W). Prior to entering the park we stopped at a 1900’s Sod Homestead. Paul made a new friend (Mr Billy), we also saw prairie dogs, farm structures and early century farm tools. Riding through the Badlands we where amazed with the every changing formations, colors the open ranges known as Buffalo Gap National Grassland. Leaving there we went to Wall, SD. home of Wall Drugs were we had lunch (mostly Buffalo Burgers). Then down to Black Hills Harley Davidson in Rapid City ( a little shopping for some). Then we rode out 14 A into the Black Hills through sweeping curves with sun reflecting off a near by river, cool temps. as a breath of fresh air letting us know we have arrived. In Deadwood we met up with David Cooper, Randy Alexander, Tony and Anna (friends from East Brady, Pa.).Today’s ride reminded me that God’s creation and artwork. has stood the test of time and man. Lets me know that his love is true today as it was then. We all are very thankful for his protection and guidance he has shown us through out our travels to date. Today we rode 287 miles before reaching Deadwood.