Today was my last day in South Dakota and I spent it hiking, driving back to Rapid City, and visiting a Norwegian stave church.

Today was my last day in South Dakota and I spent it hiking, driving back to Rapid City, and visiting a Norwegian stave church.

I spent the morning hiking and driving the Needles Highway in Custer State Park. Tonight I went to the nighttime illumination at Mount Rushmore. In between, I enjoyed a nap, cider, and some pasta for dinner.

I ate breakfast in the shadow of the presidents this morning. Any guess as to where? If you guessed Mount Rushmore, you’re correct! I hit the road early this morning so as to beat the crowds to the monument and it worked out in my favor. There were quite a few people there before 7AM but it wasn’t crowded. I got to enjoy the Presidential Trail with very little company and take in the views without hundreds of people in my photos.
