In case you're wondering about the composition of the peaks and pinnacles of the Badlands, think sand castles. Very crumbly, made up of layers of brittle rock and dried mud. Erosion is a constant ongoing process here.
Another hot sunny day and a tailwind for much of it. I took the route south of the park, avoiding traffic and enjoying the long views. After about ten miles I noticed a cyclist coming up behind me, Danny from Germany doing an out and back ride to the park. Fascinating fellow: 33 year old architect, on vacation, arrived in NY and planned to ride across country; frustrated by rains, tried to take his bike on bus or train but they insist bikes be boxed and treated as luggage. So unlike enlightened Europe. His solution: rent a car, sleep in it to save motel costs and carry groceries. Plus he can now see more national parks, take nice rides (and long runs and go swimming since he wants to do a triathlon)
Frankly, I became envious when he listed all places he will see. My linear route contrasted poorly with his leapfrogging and flexibility.
Ha ha ha! Come on Jim... You know doing this journey under your own power is incomparable to what Danny is doing. I remember the Tatanka Trading Post mural....also the Longhorn Saloon across the road with all the cattle skulls. Enjoy Rapid City!
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