Exploring Montana and South Dakota: Rivers, Rides, and Rushmore
Thursday: Yellowstone River Views
We awoke early Thursday morning, ready for an overnight stay just outside Billings, MT, along the Yellowstone River before continuing on to Custer, SD. The drive was uneventful and even pleasant—especially with the bike finally repaired. We arrived at the park around six, made dinner, and took a peaceful walk down to the river.
Friday: Custer Charm
Friday morning, we made our run for Custer and arrived around noon. After settling in, we went in search of lunch and found The Buglin' Bull Restaurant, which hit the spot. We spent some time walking around town, which reminded us of how Gatlinburg, TN used to feel—charming and uncrowded. It felt like our own little escape.
Later, we hopped back on the bike and headed toward the west entrance of Custer State Park, taking a scenic ride around Stockdale Lake. We stopped at one point and Jodi decided to coach a chipmunk to her. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on how you look at it, it didn't work. It was a relaxing end to a quiet day before heading back to the campground.
Saturday: Black Hills & Mount Rushmore
We got moving by mid-morning, eager to explore the Black Hills, find the Eye-of-the-Needle, and visit Mount Rushmore. The air was crisp for September, and the ride was stunning. In Keysville, we stopped at Ruby's House Restaurant—a place rumored to have been run by a madam named Ruby. But who am I to gossip?
After lunch, we made our way to Mount Rushmore. It had been four years since we last rode from Tampa to see it, and it felt great to be back. Though we wanted to stay for the nightly ceremony, we opted to head back before dark.
Sunday: Wildlife Encounters
Sunday was all about wildlife. We entered Custer State Park hoping to see the “fluffy cows” again—and we did! A herd was crossing the road, and we spent nearly an hour watching the calves play. Later, we ran into a group of donkeys and couldn’t resist stopping to interact with them.
We took a break at the Bison Center for lunch before continuing our ride. Along the way, we spotted pronghorn antelope, prairie dogs, and even a few mountain goats.
Sunday Evening: Lakeside & Dinner
We wrapped up the day with some fishing at Stockdale Lake, then headed to the RV to get cleaned up for dinner. We’d been passing Pounding Fathers Brewery and Restaurant and finally decided to give it a try. Dinner was incredible—I had the bison tomahawk steak, cooked to perfection. I probably shouldn’t have eaten the whole thing, but I did.
Monday: Onward to Memphis
Monday morning, it was time to hit the road again, heading toward Memphis, TN with an overnight stop at Cracker Barrel along the way.
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