Rankin Ridge.

Photos and exploring August 8, 2014 – after lunch.

Rankin Ridge trail is a 1 mile loop trail through a ponderosa pine forest in Wind Cave National Park.  There are several points, such as the one below, where the peaks of the Black Hills can be viewed and others overlooking the South Dakota plains to the east.

Rankin Ridge trail, Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota, August 8, 2014 Rankin Ridge trail, Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota, August 8, 2014 Rankin Ridge trail, Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota, August 8, 2014 Rankin Ridge trail, Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota, August 8, 2014 Fire Tower, Rankin Ridge trail, Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota, August 8, 2014

After we finished Rankin Ridge trail, we went down into Custer State Park and, along the way, saw some antelope and elk.

Antelope, Either Wind Cave National Park or Custer State Park, South Dakota, August 8, 2014

We’ve never seen such a tight herd of elk before.  It was different, with young bucks mixed in with females and calves.

Elk, Custer State Park, South Dakota, August 8, 2014
critters, forests, hiking, landscape, mountains, parks, photography, places, plains, plants, Travel Photos

Comments on this entry are closed.

  • Hilary Aug 26, 2014 Link

    Hi Mike – just love the scenery … the Ponderosa Pine Forest looks so cool and comforting – while offering great views. Lovely antelope and elk … it’s great you’re having such a good trip – cheers Hilary
    Hilary recently posted…Fierce Viking Chick – RIPMy Profile

    • Mike Aug 29, 2014 Link

      Thanks. This was a good hike and we’ve had several more since. Bad cell connections and little internet, so I’ll have a bit to post down the road.
      Mike recently posted…Old Cars and Boxwork.My Profile

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