Another one of my motorcycle touring trips included a couple days visiting the Badlands in South Dakota. I was not expecting the beauty I discovered there.
The Lakota called the topography “Makhóšiča“, literally bad land, while French trappers called it “les mauvaises terres à traverser” – “the bad lands to cross”. This dry terrain is a type of soft sedimentary rock and clay-rich soils that have been extensively eroded by wind and water. It almost has a look of volcanic rock. And, it is so rich in colors, patterns and shapes. This type of terrain can be found in several locations in the U.S. such as Makoshika State Park in Montana,Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota and the Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Another popular area of badland formations is Toadstool Geologic Park in the Oglala National Grassland of northwestern Nebrask and you can include Dinosaur National Monument in Colorado and Utah.
6 Comments
Paul
I’ve not been to either of the Dakotas, but certainly hope to get there and see some of this beauty. However, there just don’t seem to be many flights going to that part of the country. 🙂
Monte Stevens
You can fly into Rapid City then drive from there, camp at a couple of KOA campgrounds or use one of the parks campgrounds.
Earl
Monte, I visited the Badlands in 1980 during a cross-country camping road trip prior to shipping out to England for three years.
My reaction was much as yours…surprise at the rugged beauty I discovered and a respect for those who lived, explored and travel in this area years ago.
This photo captures the beautiful sediment layers well, but doesn’t give a true indication to the vastness of the Badlands. Still, a wonderful photo.
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Earl! I will need to return back there.
Ken Bello
I was in the Badlands a few years ago for the first time. What a thrill. I doubt if there is anything like it anywhere else. Beautiful shot.
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Ken. I wonder what other countries have to offer. There must be some places similar.