Mount Rushmore

Today's journey was much shorter by no less exciting. The destination was Mount Rushmore, but the ride there (and as you've heard me say before: it's the journey that matters not the destination - though it this case they were both amzing) was nothing short of jaw droppingly impressive. The best part is a stretch of road called Needles Highway. The first picture below provides a clue of where it got it's name.  The others show some of the scenery along this narrow twisty stretch of asphalt ribbon.

And after a few dozen more curves, long sweepers and hairpins, now the moment you've all been waiting for. I arrive at Mount Rushmore, a stone sculpture like no other in the world. It's a magnificent  sight. From out of the southern exposure of the mountain the faces of Jefferson, Washington, Roosevelt and Lincoln look out on the thousands who visit this monument daily. In addition to the mountain there are the exhibition rooms and the theatres where you can learn a number of things about the way the sculpture came about and was executed. Again, the rangers that make the presentations are extremely well trained and are dedicated to making the visitor experience an enjoyable and rewarding one.  These bureaucrats are consumate professionals. Félicitations!

After a few hours walking around, listening and admiring I left Mount Rushmore with an appreciation of why Americans consider this site one of their national treasures.  I rode home in a heavy downpour, but it didn't matter.  This had a been a great day on, and off the bike.