A monumental day

Remember how I mentioned that I’m always worried about the possibility of disappointment when visiting a place I’ve long wanted to see? Well, six years ago, on our last cross-country adventure, I worried about Mount Rushmore. Now, as we approach it for the second time, I have no worries at all. I know it will be great. Yay.

The day couldn’t be any prettier. It’s in the 70’s and sunny and we have a full schedule of stops planned. As we get our first roadside view of the monument, I smile. It’s a good day.

We are there with people from every corner of both the U.S.A. and the world. People are happy. We are happy. The flags are flying, the birds are singing, you get the idea. It’s perfect.

We stop for the requisite photos from the main viewing terrace. I get several of Mr. C in the same poses and locations as six years ago. I know he’s changed, but it’ll be fun to compare the differences when we finally move into our house and have full access to our photos again. Maybe I’ll even frame one from this trip alongside one from the last.

He decides that we should venture out and do one of the trails. With all of the posted warnings about the challenging nature of the stairs, I’m not so sure, but I figure, what the heck, we’re on vacation. Let’s have some fun! I don’t remember exactly how many stairs we climb, but it feels like way more than whatever is posted. But, I have a tip for you, my dear readers. You can learn from my mistake. If you take the loop the other way around you get to go down the stairs instead of up. Oops!

We didn’t hike any trails last time. And, let me tell you, this one is fabulous. We see the presidents’ heads from different perspectives and distances. Sometimes we see only Washington. Sometimes we see only Lincoln. Sometimes we get the value added bonus of Jefferson and Roosevelt being present and accounted for at the same time. Not to mention the fantastic views of the surrounding valley. Like I said, fabulous.

We’re hungry when we’re done. It’s time for some lunch. You know you’ve been on the road for endless days in a row when your 12 year old son looks at the options on the menu board and says, “All I want is the roasted chicken and vegetables.” We’re starting to crave real food. We don’t want anything else that comes delivered in a paper sack. We eat our lunch outside in the shade while staring at the perfect view of the monument.

Just down the road is Crazy Horse, the monument to Native Americans being built as I type these words. It is just as fabulous as Mount Rushmore, but one thing really makes it stand out. We get to see it being built. It is impressive.

When it is finally finished, it is going to be amazing. It’s absolutely enormous and beautifully designed. Unfortunately, I might not be around to see the end results. Don’t worry, I’m not thinking of checking out anytime soon. But, it’s a long carving process and, even if I die at the ripe old age of 90, it might not be complete. Six years ago, I informed Mr. C that if he is still around when it’s done, I want him to make sure he goes back to see it in all its glory. He promises me he will. I make him promise again today, just to be sure.

The monument is being funded solely with small, private donations. Of course, the price for admission helps, so we pay our money and go inside. The museum is fantastic. The collection of artifacts and art is impressive. I especially love the small jars of colored beads.

Last time we took the extra tour that takes you to the base of the monument for a closer view. I’m sad to say that we didn’t have time for it on this visit. It does cost a few dollars more, but I think it’s well worth the money. Make sure you do it when you find yourself staring up at Crazy Horse’s majestic face. You’ll be glad you did. Also, take some time to really look at the Nature Gates just to the side of the entrance. Wow.

We’re in luck. The Lakota hoop dancers have just started their show when we arrive. We hurry outside to watch them perform. Mr. C is in awe. I am in awe. How can they possibly dance, pick up multiple hoops with their feet, and form the hoops into different images, simultaneously? It’s truly magnificent. And, the women are wearing the most stunning beaded footwear. I’m so happy we didn’t miss the show. Or our second visit to Crazy Horse.

 

If you ever find yourself in the Black Hills of South Dakota, make sure you carve out an afternoon to visit these two monuments. You won’t be disappointed. Even if it is your second time.