All three of our destinations today are adjacent, and National Geographic rates Custer State Park one of the best in the nation. It is easy to see that designation, as the scenery is
magnificent. The "vista" picture is just to show why this area is called the "Black Hills." Unfortunately, much of the pine forest (just like we saw several years ago in both Colorado and Alberta) is being devastated by an epidemic from the pine beetle - mountain after mountain of dead trees. It is really sad to see such mayhem. The Park service staffs are working hard to minimize the damage, but it is no easy task.
Oh, guess which rock formation is named "Eye of the Needle."
magnificent. The "vista" picture is just to show why this area is called the "Black Hills." Unfortunately, much of the pine forest (just like we saw several years ago in both Colorado and Alberta) is being devastated by an epidemic from the pine beetle - mountain after mountain of dead trees. It is really sad to see such mayhem. The Park service staffs are working hard to minimize the damage, but it is no easy task.
Oh, guess which rock formation is named "Eye of the Needle."
