Tag Archives: Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

Dancing With Wolves Along Spearfish Canyon

DSC_0324

My internet searches led me to Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway for spectacular views of South Dakota.   I  started the scenic roadway from I-90 and began heading south.

DSC_0330

Somewhat similar to the Needles Highway, palisades were the highlight of the skyline while canyons and gorges gave the feeling of being surrounded by a natural biodome.

DSC_0336

Also known as Route 14, there were two waterfalls,  Roughlock and Bridal Veil Falls which were used as the backdrop for the final scenes in Dances with Wolves.

Spearfish Canyon was well worth the drive to experience the natural beauty of the Black Hills.  I had not included the additional time for retracing my route, which added a couple of hours, but I was able to reach my next destination before nightfall.

Have you driven the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many thanks for reading my post and Happy Travels!

Preparing for Yellowstone, The Grand Tetons and the Sites In Between

I have been counting down the days until my vacation out west!

I picked up the rental car (Alamo Car Rental) from Dayton International airport in the evening so I could leave Ohio early in the morning.   Through the website carrentals.com, I found a midsize car, unlimited mileage for only $141.40 for 9 days.  When I arrived at the rental counter,  I was provided a Volkswagen Jetta for my trip, roomy and  extremely comfortable.

With plans to depart at 5AM, I will be settling in early for the night.  The first stop on my agenda will be Sioux Falls, South Dakota and I am hoping to reach this point before sundown.  I am prepared for the long day because the excitement and adrenaline overcome any thought of the dread of a long drive.  Besides, I will be exploring some of the most beautiful parks in the United States.

In preparation for my trip I used the following resources

  • Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks, A Lonely Planet Guide
  • Fodor’s Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks
  • Yellowstone in Photographs, by George Wuerther
  • Moon Handbooks Yellowstone & Grand Teton

My itinerary for the first couple of days consists of the following places to visit, but I am prepared to make any necessary changes should I decide to add or subtract items on my list.

I have the next few days packed with activities and attractions, but I am totally ready and can’t wait to see what an amazing adventure lies ahead.

If you have any suggestions for places to visit while I take on this expedition, please let me know. I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.