In North Dakota now

Update on our current place in this big country--for several reasons, we did not go to Glacier, but instead headed East.  We spent two days in a Park outside of Glendive, MT. called Makoshika State Park.  It is considered to be The Badlands of Montana.  Makoshika is a Lacota word for "bad spirits." (maco sica) We found it to be so beautiful--we hiked along a wash way into the back country, for 4-5 miles, and because we were so close to the town, we broke out the bikes and biked in the park and to breakfast the next morning.  The First pictures are of this park.

      We next went to Theodore Roosevelt Nat'l park, the "makoshika" of North Dakota.  On our 5 mile hike into the back country there, I spied a Prarie Rattler, which somewhat alarmed me--also a Bull Snake which looks a lot like a Rattler.  Fortunately, I had been to a Program on Snakes in the park the night before, so was filled with my newfound knowledge of reptiles! We also saw adorable Prarie Dogs, but when we tried to hike along a trail this morning, in Prarie Dog Town, we discovered a herd of Bison(60 or more) ensconced along the trail and the meadow.  The Bulls are getting ready to Rut in early August, so they can be very defensive. We didn't dare walk by this big herd. So, had to be satisfied with just seeing The "Dogs".  I have learned a lot about Theodore Roosevelt and his Park--really enjoy the Ranger programs that National Parks provide! Onward to South Dakota and the Badlands there! Al and Dee