We stayed in Rapid City two nights. On our last drive through there was a storm that brought dense fog to the area and we weren’t able to see the Crazy Horse Monument. This time we wanted to catch the Wind Cave National Park and Crazy Horse.
I love that so many of the CCC projects are still benefiting us today. The elevator at wind cave is one of those projects. Isn’t the floor indicator way cool???
I learned so much at the Crazy Horse Monument. The fact that it will take so long to complete makes it feel epic. I would like to return in 10 years. They had two pictures, one from 2020 and one from 2023 that clearly showed the progress on the extended hand. It is such a monumental project, it’s hard to take in the scale. This is a photo of the plaster sculpture that, if I remember correctly, is 16 tons itself!
Lastly, just like our trip before, our timing just happened to coincide with the Sturgis motorcycle rally. We saw motorcyclists everywhere and I’m sure the economic benefits to all the surrounding areas helps sustain many businesses. This trip, we actually drove into Sturgis and the number of motorcycles in Sturgis itself was incredible!! They have a platform that, for $5, you can climb to for pictures with the proceeds going to that day’s charity organization. Nice touch, Sturgis!
And that is our roadside attraction!
Cherie
we have been in the areas you talk about and one time went to the Sturgis area and didn't know the rally was taking place then. I didn't like all the noise we had planned on camping in the area at a really nice state park and there were so many motorcycles there too that we went on down the road some miles instead - we had wanted some peace and quite and that was the opposite. We first saw the Crazy Horse monument back in the early 9'0's I believe because the girls were with us. I'm surprised that it barely looks any different now
ReplyDeleteI know how noisy it is in Sandusky for Ohio Bike Week, I can't imagine how loud it must be at Sturgis! That monument would be something to see in person!
ReplyDeleteHow fun!! I love Sturgis' idea of fundraising for charity. I'm sure the town loves to the motorcycle comes to boost economy, but I imagine they are glad when it is over...and more quiet LOL.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this epic monument! And I think one motorcycle is loud. Can't imagine all of these!
ReplyDeleteI was at Wind Cave a couple years ago and remember that elevator--great way to get back out of the cave, as opposed to hiking back up all the steps, as most caves have people do!
ReplyDelete