Black Hills National Forest

Today we went on a hike in the Black Hills National Forest to Doty Springs with Chuck and Karla. It was great to be in such beautiful country. The area close to where Chuck and Karla live was part of Custer's 7th Cavalry camp/route and on the way to our hike starting point, we stopped to view the grave site of where one of his soldiers is buried.

After the hike we had a drink at a 1950's style drive in diner (called Sonic) where you place an order over the intercom and you are delivered your order by staff on roller skates. About this time we could see a lightning storm occurring over the Black Hills - pretty impressive.

We then went to the local Harley Davidson dealership (where Chuck knows the owner). The business is really gearing up for the start of 'Rally Week' (Sturgis Bike Rally) in early August. This is arguably the largest motorcycle rally in the world. Tracee & I attended the 70th anniversary event during our 2010 tour. Having done it once, we had no real inclination to take part again this year. Black Hills HD is a very large dealership. There was a huge marquee being prepared for the rally week and more Harleys on site than you could poke a stick at.

After visiting Chuck & Karla's daughter-in-law Jenny and grandchildren Ritter & new baby Reese, we drove out to Hill City for dinner at the Alpine Inn. There was only one item on the menu - steak! The choice was whether you wanted small or large & how you wanted it cooked. Loved it! On the way home we stopped at the Pactola Dam. The lake there is a popular destination for boats and jet-skis.