Karla's Kronicles #25

The Karla Kronicles #25 The Big Trip - Part 6 - Exploring The Badlands, S.D.
Greetings Kronicle Readers! (Note: Larger and More Detailed Photos are in the Photo Albums Located HERE.)
On our 3rd day at Badlands, we got out our day packs and hiked a 6.6 mile loop trail by taking part of Castle Trail into Medicine Root Trail, taking us deeper into the formations. We both agreed that we really didn't see any formations more or less spectacular than the overlooks and short hikes provide; unlike Bryce Canyon, where hiking into the formations gives you a different perspective and formations that have been given special names for their resemblance.

The Prickley Pears were beginning to bloom...

The wild flowers are always such a contrast to the harsh geography of the land. And Prickly Pear Cactus blooms that were closed on our way up the trail, were opening up to the sun on our hike out.

	We met one other couple on the Medicine Root Trail hike; they had just run across a Rattlesnake, so we made sure we were on the lookout; but we just saw little froggies and flowers.
There were several areas of wild Rose Bushes along Medicine Root Trail.
	On our 4th day, we knew it would be getting warm again in the afternoon, so we had a few more short hikes planned. One hike, to Notch Trail, went into the formations about 1/2 mile, then you had to climb this ladder and go along a ridge. We had met another hiker who shares my fear of heights; she said it was not worth it and it really got to her, so I stayed at the bottom of the ladder and Larry continued up and got these photos.



	Larry took this photo of the ladder from his viewpoint. Sometimes, it just doesn't look that steep, but it's not the type of terrain I like to hike. I can go up; it's coming down that's the problem!
While Larry was up exploring Notch Trail, I was down below and discovered these swallow nests. Boy, are they fast. If you look closely you can see their little faces poking out; but then they would swoop in and out of those little openings like lightening!

The Cliff Shelf Trail was very manicured and even had a staircase and boardwalk along the way; it was only 1/2 mile trail making a loop but very scenic. Below are some photos along Cliff Shelf Trail. There was suppose to be a small pond attracting animals in the area, but it was dry. The trail winds through a Juniper Forest.

	This viewpoint that Larry took from the Window on the Notch Trail really shows the staircase on Cliff Shelf Trail. The trail only gains about 200 ft. elevation but it does have some nice viewpoints along the way. I think it was one of my favorite little hikes because of the forest contrasts with the blue skies and rock formations. And way, way out in the distance you can see the front of our Coach...but you have to know what to look for...
Many of the overlooks just required a camera (or two); very easy access...these are just a few more photos taken during our time at Badlands National Park. We felt it was the right amount of time to spend and we enjoyed the campground very much; we listened to the wondrous vocals of the Meadowlark all day long. They would come sit on the shelters or in the nearby shrubs and call to one another. Their song is very beautiful.
	Saddle Pass Trail was another trail that I attempted and turned back (actually, sat and waited for Larry to return so he could assist me). This trail is only 1/4 mile ROUND TRIP; it's marked Strenuous. I started out Ok, but the steepness got to me, so I waited for Mr. Dayhike to make the journey. That's our jeep in the parking area. Larry got some great views up there!

Well, that wraps up our time in Badlands National Park. Our next stop is Rapid City, South Dakota. Stay tuned for Kronicle's #26; featuring Mt. Rushmore, Custer State Park and a tour of the Wind Caves...until then...
Let us know about your adventures, too. Now that Summer is over and Fall is here, what are your plans? More later...Karla and Larry

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