Thundering Hooves

I woke up this morning, snug in my sleeping bag in the morning chill of mountain air, and rolled over to go back to sleep since it wasn't even six yet.  Then, I heard it. The crack of a whip. Hollering.  Hooves pounding.  I quickly ducked out of my tent just in time to see the last of the train go by as the horses were driven to the corral for trail rides.  Unfortunately, not in time to grab my camera, but there are two more mornings to attempt.

Now, I'm sitting at the picnic table next to my camp, looking around at the grandeur of the Ponderosa pines and the dramatic shadows created by the morning light.  A few people are up, but things are still quiet as only the smallest of children are awake.

I have two beautiful days ahead of me in which to explore the Black Hills. Now I only need to decide what to do. A visit to Crazy Horse is definitely on the schedule, as is a drive through Custer State Park. I've already been to Rushmore, and don't feel a strong need or desire to go again.  Caves? Wildlife? Native American sights?  It's all there.  I loved this place the first time I visited, four years ago, and I love it just as much this time.