Sunday, October 27, 2013

Spearfish Canyon South Dakota

In late September I drove to Rapid City, South Dakota.  My primary goal was to re-visit Mount Rushmore.  I had seen it in July but wanted to see it again.



However, on my second trip out to the area I decided to see a few more areas.  One area was the area northwest of Rapid City.

Deadwood is a town you may have heard of.  There was an HBO series by the same name.  It is where the last American gold rush occurred.

To this day Deadwood is still a town that is primarily a gambling center.


The tall building on the left side of the below picture is a casino owned by Kevin Costner.  It is called the Midnight Star.



Inside are lots of memorabilia from Costner's movies.  Here is the original dress worn by Mary McMonnell.  Her character was Stands with a Fist.



Of course a casino is a casino.  The inside of the Midnight Star looks like any other such place.


The real treasure is not found in the casinos - it is west of Deadwood in a place called Spearfish Canyon.


This is truly a beautiful place.  Frank Lloyd Wright called Spearfish Canyon his favorite place on earth.
 

There are three major waterfalls.  This one is called Bridal Falls.  The falls gives the appearance of a bride's veil.


This might be a better view.


 
 
I thought this rock formation looked like a dog's head.
 

 
 
This waterfall is called Roughlock Falls.



Driving through this area is breathtaking - and I don't use that word lightly. 



I am looking forward to getting back there soon.

5 comments:

Leslie: said...

Phenomenal shots, Russell. You do have a knack for perspective! I love the dog's head "look" and the scenic waterfalls. We, too, have a "Bridal Falls" and maybe one day you will have a chance to see it.

Marge said...

You didn't run into my grandson, did you, Russell? He is a junior at The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology or whatever the newest name is. And his hobby is rock climbing, although I don't think he climbs in Spearfish Canyon. We love that area. Such a beautiful drive. And you have some gorgeous shots! Thanks for sharing.

A Lady's Life said...

wow what a find

Small City Scenes said...

That first shot is extremely well done. A bit different than the usual. I would love to go to Spearfish Canyon. Gorgeous is right. Love the falls. Great shots. Go back often. MB

Hilary said...

Wonderful photos of an amazing place. I can see why you'd be anxious to travel there. It was a pleasant surprise to see you comment at my blog today. Always a signal that you're back to blogging. :)