Day 22 – Item One (on Theresa's & MJB's Bucket list) – Check!

Narration Here.

The CRV idiot light for low tire pressure illuminated on the way to Mt. Rushmore so that issue would need to be dealt with after the Bucket List item is completed.

Kevin could not do a drone flyover as this was a "no drone zone"

Theresa's jaw dropped, and Kevin detected a tier in her eye with the first glimpse of the presidential rock sculpture. Parked and entering the park was even more impressive as a marble path led down a flag-lined archway with a clear view of the four faces on the mountain at the end of the path. 

Goose bumps were felt on the presidential trail as the meaning and symbolism of the monument would not be denied. Steps led to a museum where the construction and history of the patriotic landmark was explained in great detail. Many pictures from all angles were snapped thru out the day. The engineering that was deployed during the years of construction was mind boggling. There were no lasers during the day to direct the tools. The sculpture made plaster scale models that the workers would use to measure and then transfer the measurements X12 to the rock they were chiseling. At the end of the tour a must have proof T-shirt souvenir for Theresa was purchased. Patriotism, and engineering marvel consumed this moment!

With every inch explored, the bucket list item could be check off both Theresa and MJB's list.

A gas station was located just on the edge of Hill City that had an air station so Kevin checked the CRV tires. All were well under pressure so Kevin systematically added air to each tire. The conclusion was that the extreme heat of the badlands followed by a cool down in the Black Hills may have caused the low pressure. Or perhaps a delayed affect of I40 :)

There was a need for a good internet connection as well as lunch. A quaint bar and grill was selected that had an upper patio that would provide 5 bars on the Mifi. With full tummies it was time to head back to the campground to let Zin out and do some laundry. The very slow campground wifi was hijacked to complete the upload of the days multitude of photos while 2 loads were washed and dried.

The focal point for tomorrow will be picking up the Smit mail (if it is in)from the Hill City PO as well as a bike ride on nearby trail.

Discussion to add another Bucket List item for MJB of Devils Tower in WY was examined. If one of the days planned for the Black Hills could be used for this new destination then that would work. A KOA near the natural wonder was located as well as a route that would also include a stop in Sturgis for Kevin.