En route to the Badlands we crossed 250 miles of rolling prairie on I-90 in SD. Briefly stopping on the way to take in the Corn Palace, we posed for a corny photo. Judging from the historic photos, this site was much more impressive in years gone by.

In complete contrast to the surrounding natural beauty, we also stopped at a site memorializing the Minuteman missile silos that dotted the northern plains during the Cold War, some within view of the interstate. The red chair was used by the missile commanders on duty.

The Badlands formed the gorgeous background for our campground of the day. We explored on foot and then ate (bison burgers and chili) in the park lodge. The park encourages off-trail exploration and Ben especially enjoyed having free reign over the landscape, climbing wherever caught his fancy! The three people atop the ridge in the last photo are Nick, Ben, and Rowan. To cap off the day, Ranger Ed provided an informative evening lecture on the geology and fossils of the park. We think these lands are pretty awesome, in both senses of the word.

Day 11: Lake Vermillion State Recreation Area SD to Badlands National Park (Cedar Pass Campground) SD – 256 miles.