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Spearfish Canyon and US Route 14A


No trip to the Black Hills is complete without a drive through this gem.

Welcome to Spearfish Canyon, found in the northwestern part of South Dakota's Black Hills. Nestled along US Route 14A, Spearfish Canyon provides year-round entertainment for travelers to the area, from fishing and waterfall viewing in the summer, to skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. Even if you're not one to leave the vehicle, the drive through this treasured area is certainly not one to miss. Whether heading south from Spearfish, or north from Lead, you'll be able to take in the views of the cliffs around this meandering highway.

While down near the city of Savoy, be sure to make a stop at one of the free public parking areas and check out one of the most popular destinations of the area, Roughlock Falls. While around the trails here, you'll see the remains of a hydroelectric power station at Old Spearfish Creek Dam, which now serves as a fishing opportunity for passers by. Going north, make a stop at Bridal Veil Falls, also seeing across the way an old train right-of-way. It's not just the non-living you might see around here; if that elusive mountain goat wasn't found in Custer State Park, you might just find it here.

There's more to US Highway 14A than simply Spearfish Canyon. Once at the southern end of that portion of the highway, take a drive into Lead and Deadwood. Continue east and you'll find yourself within Boulder Canyon, another scenic drive enjoyed by many through the Black Hills. Although not quite as breath-taking as Spearfish Canyon, this drive is certainly not one to miss. Once through, you'll pop out on the eastern end of this highway at the city of Sturgis, known for its population increasing a hundred fold for two weeks out of the year.

So the next time your Internal Compass tells you to take a drive around, try out Spearfish Canyon.


WRITTEN Dec 17, 2023 at 11:24 AM
TAGS: trip 14, trip 15, south dakota
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The National Presidential Wax Museum


Perhaps you'd like to see a tribute to the Presidents of the United States in a more, well, "life-like" setting.

Welcome to Keystone, South Dakota, home of the National Presidential Wax Museum. Keystone is known for being the tourist city at the base of Mount Rushmore, so why not be a fitting place for this sort of a place? The museum was first founded in 1971, and originally known as the "Parade of Presidents". Today, visitors are given a chance to take a self-guided tour of the museum, able to listen to the history of each of the various Presidents while viewing defining events created in wax, from Thomas Jefferson drafting the Declaration of Independence and Grover Cleveland getting married, to Richard Nixon visiting the Apollo 11 crew and George W. Bush surveying the 9/11 wreckage.

The creation of the National Presidential Wax Museum almost never happened. On December 15, 1963, founder Katherine Stubergh appeared on the panel show "What's My Line?", with the panel identifying her as a sculptor who more specifically "Makes Figures for Wax Museums". She lived in Los Angeles and was pursuing a dancing career, and although she made sculptures to make ends meet, always believed herself to belong in the dancing line. It wasn't until she sculpted Mae West that she heard from the subject, "Kid, anybody can make a piece of mud look like me shouldn't be no dancer." She would go on to sculpt many Hollywood celebrities, Presidents, and although she has since passed on, her legacy continues with sculptors to this day.

This museum was visited by us on accident, originally wanting to go to Mount Rushmore a second time before stopping here. We're glad we did, as this seasonal museum is something to behold for art and history buffs alike. Walking in, one can pretend to be the President making a speech from the Press Room, with words from both Trump and Obama at the time of our visit. The self-guided telephones allow you to feel like you're given a guided tour, but can go at your pace and view what you wish. Whether you stay for a few minutes or the entire day, the National Presidential Wax Museum will be a fun experience for everyone.

So the next time your Internal Compass takes you to the Black Hills, make a stop to admire more than just four presidents.


WRITTEN Dec 10, 2023 at 11:11 AM
TAGS: trip 15, south dakota
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The Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway


Looking for a driving adventure? Try this one on for size.

Welcome to the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, in the middle of the Black Hills of South Dakota. People familiar with the area will know the name of Peter Norbeck, who served as both a governor and senator for the state of South Dakota in the 20th century. During this tenure, he was able to secure funding for many of the state and national treasures in the area, including Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, as well as the establishment of Grand Teton National Park in Western Wyoming.

What consists of the Norbeck Byway is not a continuous route, but rather a figure-eight style loop of roads throughout the Black Hills. The main highlights of the byway include US Highway 16A through Custer State Park and along Iron Mountain Road, State Highway 244 taking you along the profile of Mount Rushmore, and State Highway 87, the Needles Highway, along with the truck access to Sylvan Lake via State Highway 89. The Needles Highway will require an entrance pass to Custer State Park. Although your "America the Beautiful" national park pass will not work at this location, the annual price for state park entry is at such a steal of a price that they effectively beg you to visit as many of the parks as able.

Driving along the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway is generally limited to 25-35 miles per hour, and with the twists and turns on this road, it's not that bad of an idea. Definitely unhook the trailer, because there are one-lane tunnels that will make even the single-wheeled driver question whether they can pass without folding the side mirrors. When going along Iron Mountain Road, be sure to take it east from Custer State Park to Keystone, as you'll be able to experience a "portrait" of Mount Rushmore in at least one of the tunnels. Also bring along a paper map, as parts of the Needles Highway are above 6,000 feet in elevation and out of reach of cell phone towers pointing downward from below these points.

So the next time your Internal Compass takes you to the Black Hills, don't miss the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway during your journey.


WRITTEN Nov 26, 2023 at 10:25 AM
TAGS: trip 14, trip 15, south dakota
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Mickelson Trail


Calling all bikers: There's a trail just for you!

Welcome to the Mickelson Trail, over 100 miles of urban and rural excursion through the Black Hills of South Dakota. First named the Black Hills Burlington Northern Heritage Trail, this bike path follows an old railroad line that was abandoned in the late 20th century, and is one of many to be included in the national conservancy known as "Rails to Trails". This has since been named after George S. Mickelson, a second generation governor of South Dakota who tragically died in a plane crash in 1993 while flying over Iowa. The trail began conversion under his tutelage, and was finished by the end of the decade.

The George Mickelson Trail is a trail designed for bikers to take them from the city of Edgemont all the way to the city of Deadwood. A short spur exists near the city of Custer to allow travelers to access Stockade Lake on the way to Custer State Park, as well as one at the north end to give users access to the city of Lead. Except for within the urban centers through which the trail passes, this is a tolled trail only available during daylight hours, though like the state park system, annual passes are available at a fairly low price. Although it was designed for bikers, the trail is available for many other outdoor activity uses throughout the entire year, with a short northern portion also available for snowmobiling. A number of trailheads and shelters exist along the trail to be able to hop off at the user's pleasure, though watch out for livestock jams that may happen.

If biking isn't something for you, or you just happen to prefer the open road, the Mickelson Trail is closed to vehicular traffic, but never fear, because there are a series of roads that will take you near the trail's right-of-way. Start off in Edgemont, using County Road 18S and State Route 89 through Pringle on the way to Custer. A quick trek along US 385 right by the Crazy Horse Memorial gets you to Hill City, but here is where the real fun begins. Take a scenic combination of paved and dirt county roads towards Mystic and Rochford through a number of ranches, before heading north to US Route 85. This highway will take you north to Lead before going down the steep hill into the city of Deadwood.

So if your Internal Compass wants to take you on a long trail, the Mickelson Trail may just be the way to go.


WRITTEN Nov 13, 2023 at 12:39 PM
TAGS: trip 14, trip 15, south dakota
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Zoo Review: Reptile Gardens


On this walk on the wild side, come add a little danger into the mix.

Welcome to Rapid City, South Dakota, home of the Black Hills Reptile Gardens. First founded in 1937 by Earl Brock as a sort of "freak show" involving snakes, this place has since grown to one of the largest menageries of reptiles in the world. Reptile Gardens is a walking zoo, ranging from indoor displays found in the central Sky Dome, to outdoor arenas and walkthroughs that are intriguing for all ages that are daring enough to visit.

On June 25th, 1961, a young gentleman named Tom Kinsella appeared on the television show "What's My Line?", stumping the panel with his seasonal occupation of an "Alligator Wrestler". Today, Reptile Gardens continues this tradition with several daily shows throughout the season where a young entertainer feeds and "wrestles" at least a dozen alligators in front of a captivated audience. The snake show still exists to this day, as well. If you want to get up close and personal, perhaps head over to the Giant Tortoises where these lovable creatures await you. There may also be a bald eagle hampered by a debilitating injury on display.

At the end of the day, Reptile Gardens is certainly a fun place to stop by if you're looking for a fun few hours. If you're going to spend a good chunk of time in the Black Hills, take a selfie near one of the "free admission" displays so you only pay once for the entire season. Although you can get through the entirety of the zoo in a day, be sure to visit during or near the height of the season to be able to see all the exhibits, as they stop wrestling alligators towards the end of the season.

So as you Follow your Internal Compass, take a stop on your way through the Black Hills for a few reptiles.


WRITTEN Nov 06, 2023 at 11:25 AM
TAGS: trip 14, south dakota
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Disc Golf Match: Angostura Disc Golf Course


After a brief recess, it's back to the park!

Welcome to Hot Springs, South Dakota, and the Angostura State Recreation Area for today's match. As Angostura is located within a state park, there is an entrance fee required, whether by one day or annual pass. This is a nine-hole hilly course with one tee/basket combination set and fairly noticeable elevation increases before returning to lake level. A map is available at the beginning of the course, which will certainly be needed because some of the holes are near each other, making the course slightly confusing. Before getting into the match, we have a bit of an equipment change.

Between this and the previous match, we picked up some additional discs for our arsenal; shout-out to Parked-It Disc Golf Emporium in Corpus Christi, Texas for offering an array of new and used discs for sale at a reasonable price. He has inherited the Innova Sidewinder 9/5/-3/1 distance driver, the Discraft Hawk 0^ mid-range, and Innova Colt 3/4/-1/1 putter, along with a Dynamic Discs commemorative 7/5/0/2 fairway driver from the KDGA Food Drive annual tournament. Her selection include a Latitude Rover 7/7/-1/1 fairway driver, a Dynamic Discs Evader 7/5/0/2 fairway driver, a Clash Berry 5/5/-1/1 mid-range, and a Latitude Royal Hope Prototype 2/3/0/1 putter.

With equipment out of the way, along with the pup that remained at home, how did this match go?

Course Result:

His Holes: 3
Halved: 5
Her Holes: 1

Course Record: Him 4 - 2 - 3 Her
Holes Record: Him 25 - 20 Her

Needless to say, the terrain showed its face early and often on this course. After a halved hole 1, hole 2 being perched on a steep incline, combined with a couple of missed putts, gave him an awful 9-11 edge. After a couple of halves, he made up for the previous mistake with a Larry Mize-like long chip into the hole on the 5th green to take it. This was short lived, as his tee-off on the 6th green went down into the valley, adding a couple strokes as we play as it lies. She was unable to capitalize on this mistake, though, as this and the next hole were halved. She was able to bring it back to within one on the 8th, but the hole win was traded back on the 9th. The shots were more than difficult on this Par 36, with him having a 58-62 edge.

He may have been able to take the lead with the new equipment, but will she bring it back? Until the next course, remember to Follow Your Internal Compass.


WRITTEN Oct 16, 2023 at 12:51 PM
TAGS: trip 14, south dakota, trip 11, texas, disc golf
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Brew Review Trifecta


Welcome to another review of craft beers brought to you by Freedom Rolling. Today, we look at three different breweries previously visited across South Dakota and what else they have to offer. As with every review, please ensure that these, or any brews, are enjoyed in accordance with local laws wherever you may be.

Welcome to Sturgis, South Dakota. Aside from motorcycles, this city offers the Sturgis Brewing Company's Black Hills Blonde Ale. Although the first scent may have the drinker wondering if this brew is somewhere between a blonde and a wheat, the smooth taste will make you remember not to judge a beer by its cover. Anyone looking to spend some time in the summer at one of western South Dakota's man-made lakes will not want to pass up an opportunity to enjoy this brew, especially with a little trout fishing on the side.

Take a trip to Sioux Falls and the Remedy Brewing Company for their regular wheat offering, the Hefe Metal. First founded in 2013 like many other small breweries across the country, Remedy has been offering many different options to discerning drinkers in the upper midwest. Hefe Metal is, as the name would suggest, their hefeweizen being offered. The wheat taste is much more powerful than any of the wheat beers previously encountered. A drinker will be able to balance it out with some food at meal time, but someone who is looking for a beer by the lake should probably try something a little more mellow and enjoyable.

Heading back to the Black Hills, we turn to Rapid City, South Dakota and the Lost Cabin Beer Company for their American Pale Ale, the "Bruce Banner". For the uninitiated, Bruce Banner is a superhero series character that would transform into "The Incredible Hulk". One sip of this particular brew, and the drinker would certainly agree that this "packs a punch". Right away, a strong taste of hops hits the palette that makes you think Bruce Banner is bordering on the verge of an IPA. Not much of any other taste comes to the drinker as it's hops on top of hops. Some really like that taste, and if they do, the Bruce Banner is going to be for them. Those enjoying a smoother taste will want to look elsewhere.

So as your Internal Compass takes you across the country, try some of the local craft beers as able, and see how they fare for you.


WRITTEN Oct 09, 2023 at 09:25 PM
TAGS: brew review, south dakota
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Brew Review Trifecta


Welcome to another review of craft beers brought to you by Freedom Rolling. Today, we look at three different breweries across the country and what they have to offer. As with every review, please ensure that these, or any brews, are enjoyed in accordance with local laws wherever you may be.

We start in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and the Fernson Brewing Company for one of their signature offerings, the Lion's Paw Lager. This particular brew comes in a delightful reddish amber color, and is a staple across bars offering craft brews in the Mount Rushmore state. Be prepared for a slightly sour taste when you first sip on this beer, but like with any good lager, the hops will come in later to give a more rounded taste. This may be a decent choice if you are in the area, and could be worth a shower if you happen to be staying for an extended period, but there are better brews to actively seek out when traveling the country.

Heading down south to Fort Worth, Texas, and the Martin House Brewing Company, we turn to the "Best Maid" sour pickle beer. Sours have started to find their place on many taproom lists, although this is one of the weirdest brews to ever try. The scent of pickles is very prevalent when first presented with the beer. The first taste is almost as if one took the liquid contents of a pickle jar and ran it through carbon dioxide pressure. Although we'll freely admit to not yet being to the point of enjoying sour beers, and the beer itself did not foam when poured which could lead to an adverse review, it doesn't seem like one to try again.

Heading back to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, we finally head to the Remedy Brewing Company, and one of their regular offerings, the Queen Bee Imperial Honey Cream Ale. As a lighter colored summer beer, Remedy advertises "a subtle honey sweetness", but there is nothing subtle about this one. The first smell and sip brings an overpowering sensation of honey to this particular brew. Once getting over that hurdle, it will not only leave the same powerful taste in your mouth, but the later stages of the brew will almost taste like cough syrup. Certain connoisseurs will enjoy the higher alcoholic content of 7.3% when compared to other beers of this type, but when looking for cream ales, there are many better choices even in this part of the country alone.

So as your Internal Compass takes you across the country, try some of the local craft beers as able, and see how they fare for you.


WRITTEN Sep 11, 2023 at 12:46 PM
TAGS: brew review, south dakota, texas
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Zoo Review: Bear Country USA


Not your average two hundred acre wood. When in zone 2, don't let grandma get out to walk around. Too hot? Too cold? Just right.

Welcome to the outskirts of Rapid City, South Dakota, home of Bear Country USA. First opened in 1972 by the Casey family and still owned by them to the day this is written, Bear Country USA is a seasonal half driving safari, half walking zoo holding several dozen different species of animals, including a safe raising ground for the black bear, which naturally has difficulty surviving in the wild. All ages are able to experience this property, and the different opportunities give something for everyone.

As you first enter the property, you are immediately whisked to the driving portion of the zoo. Drive through several fenced and cattle guarded sections to see elk, reindeer, wolves, and many of the other species that are already living in the wild in the area. Keep the windows closed as you go through, lest you meet up with one of these creatures. As you go through, you'll see mountain lions and black bears. There are a few bison along the way, but other attractions in the area will have them more prevalent. Once you get to the end, don't head out the exit yet! Instead, park and go to the walking section, where staff members play with the young bear cubs as they frolic while on display. Several other species are also able to be seen.

Bear Country USA seems on par with the cost of the larger zoos in the country, but this one is well worth it. The grounds are maintained very well, and you can tell that the seasonal staff has a lot of fun playing with the cubs. They are only open from April to November, and good luck being able to get around during the Sturgis festival. This might be worth the trip if you're a bear enthusiast, but if you happen to be kicking around the area, it's not too bad of a stop on your way towards Mount Rushmore. Just don't try to back up when you leave, because they have one-way spike strips on the ground.

So as you Follow your Internal Compass, take some time for a trip on the wild side.


WRITTEN Aug 28, 2023 at 12:17 PM
TAGS: trip 14, south dakota
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Brew Review Trifecta


Welcome to another review of craft beers brought to you by Freedom Rolling. Today, we look at three different breweries in South Dakota and what they have to offer. As with every review, please ensure that these, or any brews, are enjoyed in accordance with local laws wherever you may be.

Welcome to Sturgis South Dakota: Home of America's most famous August motorcycle rally, and right off the highway is the Sturgis Brewing Company, with one of their offerings being their Red Cut Red Amber ale. This particular brew has the smooth taste one would expect from the typical American Amber, with just a hint of hops to keep the taste buds excited. There were a couple of points during the tasting of this beer where it flirted with the line between smoothness and flatness, and although there have been plenty of other red and ambers we've come to enjoy more, Red Cut does pass as something drinkable.

Staying in the Black Hills of South Dakota, take a trip down to Rapid City and the Lost Cabin Beer Company. First starting in 2016, Lost Cabin has been brewing at both their primary city location, along with their new Beer Garden in Hill City. One of their most popular signature beers is the SoDank IPA. This moderately colored brew will give the strong taste of hops that you would expect from a typical IPA, but they have been able to balance it with a smoother taste that would allow someone in the middle of acquiring the taste for this type of beer to enjoy. Although perhaps not the best value for money, it isn't a bad choice for a special occasion in the area.

When one thinks of South Dakota, they may think of Mount Rushmore. Found in the city of Custer is the so-aptly named Mount Rushmore Brewing Company, with one of their regular beers being the Buffalo Snot stout. This particular brew brings a strong smell and taste of coffee to the drinker. However, as one would continue to enjoy this smooth, dark offering, the first impression may be deceiving as the coffee taste will diminish after the first sip, allowing even the connoisseur that does not enjoy coffee to want to have this beer again.

So the next time your Internal Compass takes you to Western South Dakota, try some of the local brews around you, but be cautious in what you choose.


WRITTEN Aug 20, 2023 at 12:50 PM
TAGS: brew review, south dakota
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