ROAD TRIP: WISCONSIN TO YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK (Part 1 )

                                                

Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in the US state of Wyoming, is a place of unparalleled beauty and stunning natural wonders. It is a destination that offers something for everyone, making it an ideal choice for a family vacation. Recently, my family embarked on an unforgettable trip to Yellowstone, and it exceeded all our expectations.

A road trip is an exhilarating way to explore new places and create lasting memories. Our journey from Wisconsin to Yellowstone National Park included stops at Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore, Devils Tower, Red Lodge Montana, breathtaking Bear Tooth Pass, and a few quirky places in between. Our hope is that we inspire you to embark on your own adventure.

Our adventure began as we headed west on I-90 towards Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
The Jolly Green Giant is a beloved icon located in Blue Earth, a small town in Minnesota. Standing at a whopping 55 feet tall, this towering statue depicts the famous mascot for Green Giant, a well-known brand of canned vegetables. The Jolly Green Giant proudly represents the region's agricultural heritage and has been a popular tourist attraction for many years. Visitors can marvel at its impressive size and pose for photos next to this whimsical symbol of healthy eating.


The Corn Palace, located in Mitchell, South Dakota, is a unique and iconic landmark that celebrates the agricultural heritage of the region. It is often referred to as the "World's Only Corn Palace" and attracts thousands of tourists each year.


The most fascinating aspect of the Corn Palace is its exterior design. Each year, the building is adorned with intricate murals made entirely from corn and other grains. These murals depict various agricultural scenes, local wildlife, historical events, and even popular cultural icons.


Local artists and a team of workers dedicate countless hours to create these colorful and detailed murals. They carefully arrange different colors and varieties of corn, sorghum, straw, and grasses to produce the vibrant and visually striking works of art. It is important to note that the corn murals are replaced annually to ensure their freshness and vibrant appearance. Therefore, it is worth checking the schedule before planning a visit to witness the latest creations.

Located in the heart of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Falls Park is a captivating natural attraction that offers mesmerizing views and a splendid recreational experience for visitors of all ages. Nestled along the Big Sioux River, the park showcases the stunning beauty of cascading waterfalls that have become an iconic symbol of the city.

The centerpiece of Falls Park is the majestic Falls of the Big Sioux River, where you can witness the powerful rush of water as it tumbles over magnificent pink Sioux quartzite cliffs. The falls create a picturesque setting, providing ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture breathtaking moments.

Exploring the park is a delightful experience. You can stroll along the paved walking paths that wind their way through lush greenery, vibrant wildflowers, and towering trees, creating truly tranquil surroundings. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, fishing, or simply taking in the scenic views from the multiple overlooks strategically positioned throughout the park.

Falls Park is not only a natural haven but also a historical site. The park houses the remains of the Queen Bee Mill, an iconic flour mill that played a crucial role in the city's development during the late 19th century. Historical markers and interpretive displays provide fascinating insights into the past, making the park an educational destination as well.



Falls Park is not just a park; it is a captivating natural wonderland that offers a glimpse into the history and charm of Sioux Falls. Whether you're seeking a serene escape or a place to engage with nature and history, Falls Park is an ideal destination that promises an unforgettable experience.

Skeleton Man walking skeleton dinosaur is located in Jackson County, South Dakota. It is on the westbound side of I-90 just before exit 170. With its exposed bones, towering height, and realistic walking motion, it offers an intriguing glimpse into the ancient world of dinosaurs. This metal sculpture will make you grin as you drive past, so as you get close, have the kiddos put down their phones and practice the fine art of staring out the window, to catch a glimpse of this whimsical roadside attraction.

Badlands National Park, this mesmerizing park is famous for its unique geological formations and diverse wildlife. Driving through the park, we marveled at the rugged beauty of the Badlands' layered rocks, deep canyons, and towering spires.

Our stop at Badlands National Park included an unforgettable hike along the renowned Notch Trail. This trail is a must-do for adventure enthusiasts seeking a unique and challenging experience amidst the park's striking landscape.

The Notch Trail is a three-mile round trip adventure that leads visitors through a series of exhilarating terrains, including prairies, canyon rims, and rugged trails. We set off with anticipation, our spirits high as we embarked on this remarkable journey.

As we began the hike, we were immediately captivated by the dramatic beauty that surrounded us. The vibrant hues of the eroded rocks, jagged peaks, and the vastness of the badlands embraced us in a surreal embrace. The trail meandered through towering walls of layered rock formations, showcasing the geological wonders that this park is famous for.

One of the highlights of the Notch Trail is an awe-inspiring log ladder that requires hikers to ascend steeply up the side of a cliff. This unique feature added a thrilling element to the hike, pushing us beyond our comfort zones while offering unparalleled views of the rugged landscape below. As we carefully climbed the ladder, the adrenaline rush mixed with a sense of accomplishment filled the air, making the experience even more fulfilling.

Upon reaching the top of the log ladder, we were rewarded with a breathtaking panorama stretching across the vast expanse of the Badlands. The juxtaposition of deep canyons, sharp rock formations, and sprawling prairies painted a striking picture of the raw power of nature. We took a moment to soak in the beauty, fully aware of the privilege to witness such a remarkable sight.

Continuing along the trail, we encountered narrow ledges and steep drop-offs that added an element of excitement and adventure. These sections challenged our hiking skills, requiring careful footwork and balance. However, the thrill of navigating through these natural obstacles was an invigorating experience, amplifying our connection with the rugged landscapes surrounding us.

As we approached the endpoint of the Notch Trail, we were met with a stunning reward—a majestic panoramic view of the White River Valley. The vastness of this panorama, coupled with the tranquility of the surroundings, created a sense of awe and reverence. We couldn't help but sit for a moment, absorbed in the serenity and timeless beauty that permeated the air.

The hike back down the trail offered a different perspective, allowing us to reflect on the incredible journey we had just undertaken. The challenging terrain we conquered, the stunning vistas we witnessed, and the moments of pure connection with nature left an indelible mark on our memories.


The Notch Trail provided an extraordinary adventure during our road trip. The hike's unique features, from the thrilling log ladder ascent to the breathtaking viewpoints, allowed us to immerse ourselves fully in the park's mesmerizing landscapes. This trail is a testament to the remarkable beauty and geological significance that Badlands National Park beholds, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all who venture along its path.

Let's not forget a quick stop at Wall Drug Store. Quick might not be the right word unless it's the off season. Wall Drug Store, located in Wall, South Dakota was bought by Ted and Dorothy Hustead in 1931. After struggling for several years on Route 16A, now Interstate 90, Dorothy came up with the idea of offering free ice water to passing motorists. This simple act of hospitality proved to be a brilliant marketing strategy.


To further entice visitors, the Husteads began advertising Wall Drug Store with hand-painted signs along the highway. These signs, placed strategically along major routes, advertised free water, 5 cent coffee, and a variety of other unique offerings and tourist attractions.

Over time, Wall Drug Store expanded its offerings to include a variety store, café, ice cream parlor, Western-themed shops, and numerous other amenities. It became renowned for its wide range of merchandise, including Native American crafts, cowboy boots, and western souvenirs.

Thanks to its clever marketing tactics and unique atmosphere, Wall Drug Store grew into a popular tourist destination that annually attracts millions of visitors from around the world. It has become a symbol of the American West and the quintessential roadside attraction.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a famous landmark located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, United States. It features the sculpted heads of four U.S. presidents - George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln - carved into the granite face of the mountain.


The idea for Mount Rushmore was conceived by South Dakota historian Doane Robinson in 1923 as a way to promote tourism in the region. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum was chosen to design and execute the project. Work began in 1927 and lasted until 1941, using dynamite and hand tools to carve the 60-foot tall faces.


The four presidents depicted on Mount Rushmore were chosen to represent key chapters in American history. George Washington represents the birth of the nation, Thomas Jefferson symbolizes its expansion through the Louisiana Purchase, Abraham Lincoln represents the preservation of the nation during the Civil War, and Theodore Roosevelt represents the growth and development of the United States.

The Mount Rushmore Memorial features a visitor center with various exhibits, a bookstore, and a museum that provides extensive information about the monument's creation, history, and significance. The visitor center is open year-round, but hours may vary.

Custer State Park is a stunning natural paradise located in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, USA. Spanning over 71,000 acres, the park offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. Established in 1919, Custer State Park is known for it's abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes.

One of the most captivating aspects of Custer State Park is its remarkable scenery. From towering granite peaks to deep, lush forests, the park showcases the beauty of the Black Hills region. The iconic Needles Highway, a winding road that meanders through sharp granite spires, offers some of the most remarkable views in the area. Wildlife is also abundant, with the park being home to a diverse range of species such as buffalo, elk, pronghorn antelope, and bighorn sheep. The park's serene lakes and rushing streams provide a peaceful and picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities.

Among the various species that call this park home, the friendly donkeys hold a special place in the hearts of visitors.


The donkeys found in Custer State Park are descendants of the animals that were once used by miners in the nearby town of Custer during the gold rush in the late 19th century. When the gold mines were abandoned, many of these donkeys were left behind and released into the wild. Over time, they found refuge in the park's vast and open spaces.

One of the most endearing qualities of the donkeys at Custer State Park is their friendly nature. These donkeys have become quite accustomed to visitors and are known for approaching cars and people in search of interaction or a tasty treat.

Leaving South Dakota behind, we ventured into Wyoming to visit Devils Tower. This natural wonder lured us with its sheer size and mystique. Standing at an imposing height of over 1,200 feet, Devils Tower is an extraordinary geological formation, composed of hexagonal columns.

Devils Tower is classified as an igneous intrusion or volcanic neck. It began forming over 50 million years ago. As the molten magma rose to the surface it cracked the surrounding sedimentary rock. Over time, the sedimentary rock eroded away, exposing the hardened magma core. The columns are the result of the slow cooling, contraction and fracturing of the magma.

As we entered Montana, we made a stop at the charming town of Red Lodge. Nestled at the base of the Bear Tooth Mountains, Red Lodge offered a delightful atmosphere with its quaint shops and outdoor recreational opportunities. We strolled through the town's streets, enjoyed the eclectic shops and sampled the local cuisine.

Next on our itinerary was the awe-inspiring Bear Tooth Pass. Dubbed the "Most Beautiful Drive in America," this scenic highway took our breath away. As we wound our way through the majestic mountains, we were treated to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and vibrant wildflower meadows. The meandering road and hairpin turns added an exhilarating element to our journey, making the drive even more memorable.

Take your time on this drive, stop at the scenic overlooks and vista points. This scenic route climbs and descends 10,947 feet, if you are the driver keep your eyes on the road and downshift to avoid riding your brakes. Cooke City, Montana awaits at the bottom of the Pass and is a great place to stop and stretch your legs and get a bit to eat.


From Cooke City, Montana you enter Yellowstone National Park at it's Northeast Entrance.

Our road trip from Wisconsin to Yellowstone National Park- the world's first national park, was an unforgettable adventure filled with natural wonders, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking scenery. From the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park to the majesty of Mount Rushmore, Devils Tower, Red Lodge Montana, and the awe-inspiring Bear Tooth Pass, each stop added to the richness of our journey. Finally, our arrival at Yellowstone National Park provided the perfect grand finale, immersing us in the splendor of one of America's most treasured natural wonders.

ADVENTURE ON